Vapormax

Considered to be the pinnacle of Air, the Vapormax technology further proves how Nike continues to develop their premier Nike Air Max technology. And with the Nike Air Vapormax’s arrival in 2017, things were looking pretty bright for Nike as they look to stay on top.

High expectations arise whenever Nike introduces a new sneaker technology. The Nike Air Vapormax arrived set to change the way we view Air Max as a whole.

What made Vapormax completely different is the way its Air unit is set up. Before, Air Max units are encased within a foam carrier to distribute impact protection without damaging the airbags. But with the Air-Sole on the Vapormax, the Air unit itself acts as the midsole and outsole as it’s fully exposed. Only backed by small rubber sections for increased traction durability.

With a new and unfamiliar technology up their sleeve, Nike explored the Vapormax and brought various renditions of the silhouette. Often turning it into a hybrid sneaker together with a bunch of classic Nike Air Max models.

Marketed as a runner, the first Nike Air Vapormax featured a Flyknit upper and reinforced with Flywire technology. Underneath the shoe is a piece of plastic that bridges the foot to the Air Sole unit. Integrated TPU lugs provide the cushioning and the traction.

It was the lightest Air Max model during its debut, making the fans thrilled with what Nike has in store for the future.

The next Vapormax silhouette stuck to the formula, but with a few reinforcements on the heel and a different Swoosh placement. Still, it received a lot of praises because of the lightweight and unique feeling you get when walking with them.

Since then, multiple Nike Vapormax models arrived in varying forms. Notable models include fusions between beloved Air Max classics such as the 97 Vapormax, Vapormax Plus, 95 Vapormax, and even the Nike Air Max 360 Vapormax.

Nike Vapormax became subject to popular collabs in recent years. Brands like Cactus Plant Flea Market, Acronym, Comme des Garcons, and Off-White are some of the brands that bestowed their own designs on the shoe.

Nike Vapormax introduces a new model annually, now also featuring more sustainable content as the brand pushes forward to their “Move to Zero” campaign by utilising at least 25% recycled materials on the trainers