Introduced in 1998 as the next innovative look in the Nike Air Max line of running shoes, the Air Max Plus continued the “Air Revolution” that began with the original Air Max running shoe in 1987. That opened a small window under the heel to let the world see the Air technology that had been cushioning their every step since 1978.
Feel it in the Air
But it wasn’t just a revolution, it was an evolution. The Air Max lineup proved so popular that Nike designers began exploring new wellsprings of inspiration.
When thinking of the story he wanted to tell on the upper, designer Sean McDowell drew from his memories of palm trees swaying in the Florida breeze.
That’s where the wavy polyurethane lines that come up across the upper to connect the midsole to the eyelets originate.
Underlying those wavy palms are an array of colors, but most common are beautiful gradients reminiscent of those Florida skies.
Underneath it all is the base of any Nike running shoe, a version of Air technology called Tuned Air, which shifted air between the forefoot and heel, depending on where you are in your stride.
But the Air Max Plus isn’t the only shoe to draw from an interesting source. The Air Max 95 owes its upper to the human spine and its lacing system to the muscles and sinews that hold everything together. The Air Max 97 derives the wavy lines on its upper to the concentric circles on a disturbed body of water.
Finish that look with Air apparel
No matter which way the Air points them, boys and girls alike can complete their look with Nike Air apparel. Whether it’s Nike Sportswear short- or long-sleeve T-shirts, hoodies, or fleece pants, kids can find a style or color scheme that works for them.
What this means for kids is that no matter how hard they run or jump, or even if they kick off their shoes in someone’s house, they’ll always look chill.
