Air Max 90

A timeless running trainer with a bold legacy that transitioned to become one of Nike’s most popular lifestyle selections. The Nike Air Max 90 revolutionized what the Air Max 1 started and brought Nike’s Air Max technology to even greater heights. This sneaker is the very definition when people describe the Nike Air Max. It arrived at an era where sneaker technology is evolving, and the Air Max 90 definitely innovated in both aesthetics and function.

Designed by Tinker Hatfield, the Nike Air Max 90 first arrived in 1990 with a different name. It used to be called the Nike Air Max III until it was renamed the Air Max 90 – referencing its year of inception. The highlight of the shoe appears on the midsole. Where a TPU support wing on the heel houses the visible Air Max unit. It was bigger and better than ever before during its time, making you literally see-through the Air Max pillars inside.

Marketed as a running trainer, the Nike Air Max 90 saw more success as a lifestyle shoe. The tiny Swoosh, thick sole combo proved to be a stylish classic for many. It was even lightweight despite the thick sole because of the breathable mesh upper construction that’s reinforced by either leather or suede.

With the success of the Air Max 90, it paved the way for the future of Nike Air Max models such as the Air Max BW, its successor. As well as other notable sneakers designed after it.

Various Air Max 90 graced the sneaker world, but nothing could ever forget the classic “Infrared” colour scheme. The popular Infrared boasted White, Grey, Black, and the Infrared tincture which sports a pinkish-red finish.

Easy to recognize, hard to forget. The Nike Air Max 90 is arguably the most successful running to lifestyle transition for a Nike shoe. Signature details of the visible Air Max in the heel, foam midsole, TPU panels, and the legendary waffle traction outsole make up the formula of Tinker Hatfield’s genius.

During the model’s 30th anniversary in 2020, Nike brought back the OG build of the shoe and even went as far as renaming the shoe back to Nike Air Max III.

Various notable collabs arrived in recent years. The most popular of course is the rising Off-White label that brought out the Air Max 90 in the debut “The Ten” collection. Los Angeles-based streetwear brand UNDEFEATED also reworked the coveted runner.

Immortalized in sneaker history, take a look at some of the latest Nike Air Max 90s below.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Air Max 90s cool?

With its classic design, high quality materials, and iconic silhouette, Nike’s Air Max 90 has been an icon for decades. There is no doubt that the classic Nike AM90 is one of the hottest Nike silhouettes of all time.. As is the Nike Air Max 90 Flyknit and any of the styles it has inspired, the Air Max 2090, Air Max Excee or Air Max 2021 (To name but a few).

Tinker Hatfileld’s Nike Air Max 90 will always be held high in sneaker culture as one of the greatest silhouettes of all time. Standing firmly alongside the Nike Air Force 1, the Nike Air Max Plus and the Nike Air VaporMax as one of the brands all time classics. Yes, this trainer is very cool.

Are Nike air max 90 true to size?

Yes, the Nike Air Max 90 is true to size. It does not run big and should fit as you expect. One thing to consider is that if you have particularly wide feet it may be best to go up a half size as they fit slightly on the narrow side.

What are air max 90 surplus?

The Nike Air Ma 90 surplus is a new take on the Initial Release of the Air Max 90, featuring a hard toe cap, tough overlays, a work boot style hard toe cap, a secret stash pocket under the tongue and cordura waterproof coating throughtout. It’s special edition release of the Premium Sneaker designed with durability in mind.

You can pick up the Air Max 90 Surplus in Black Leather, Grey Suede or Desert Sand with a number of new colourways expected to arrive in the coming months.

What is the difference between Nike Air Max 90 and Nike Air Max 90 Essential?

In short there is very little difference between the Essential and the Original Shoe. The Air Ma90 Essential is a rework of the original with better materials and a more lightweight form.

Do Nike Air Max 90 make you taller?

Air Max are known for being a good shoe to add height. To be exact the Nike Air Max 90 will bring an increase in height of 3cm mainly because of the large air unit in the heel. In general this is an above average height for a Nike trainer to bring, however gives less height than the Air Max 270, Air Max 720 or Nike Adapt Max

Are air max 90 comfortable?

Ask any sneakerhead and they’ll most likley give you the same answer. The Nike Air Max 90 is incredibly comfortable and perhaps one of the most comfortable Nike Lifestyle Shoes out there. The trainer has one of the most effective air units to date, providing a well-cushioned step, ideal for walking in for long periods of time.

Are air max 90 good for wearing to the gym or running in?

As a Sports Shoe the Nike Air Max 90 is an acceptable pair of sneakers for walking or running in or casual wear. But in the modern day, there are now better options suited specifically for gym wear or sport. If you’re looking for a more conventional running shoe we would recommend the Nike React or the Nike Pegasus Running Shoe Collections.