Starting out with the Nike Air Max 1 back in 1987, the Air Max family of sneakers has grown exponentially over the years, birthing many classic silhouettes and remaining at the peak of sneaker culture. Featuring visible Air technology within the midsoles, Nike Air Max sneakers are also some of the most comfortable offerings on the market. The line has seen countless iconic colourways and collaborations over a multitude of silhouettes, so how could anyone possibly pick a favourite?
Well, we’ve managed to somehow whittle it down to our top 10 pairs of Air Max. After a few hours of office debate, the Crepslocker choices are finally here, so get ready to find out if your favourite pair has made the cut! Read on for our choices and for some useful information regarding each sneaker featured.
Dizzee Rascal x Ben Drury x Nike Air Max 90 "Tongue N Cheek" (2009)
This epic three-way collaboration was launched in 2009 to celebrate the release of UK rap star Dizzee Rascal’s fourth studio album. Mirroring the aesthetic seen across the album artwork, the kicks are decked out in an off-white hue that’s accentuated with hits of pink, while limited-edition touches include 3M silhouettes of Dizzee on the heel tabs, a translucent Swoosh logo and “Dirtee Stank Recordings” branding on the outsoles. A true classic pair!
Nike Air Max 97 "Silver Bullet" (1997)
It’s hard to deny just how good many OG colourways are, such as the iconic “Silver Bullet” palette that first graced the AM97 upon its release in 1997. Designed by Christian Tresser, the model was allegedly inspired by ‘90s mountain bikes and nature, showcasing clean lines and an aerodynamic aesthetic. We’ve seen this pair re-release countless times over the years, with the last edition seen back in 2022. These are a must-have for any serious Air Max fan!
atmos x Nike Air Max 1 "Elephant" (2007)
Japanese sneaker retailer atmos has long since been respected for its sneaker collaborations, but it all started back in 2007 when the outpost set to work on the Air Max 1. Pulling the legendary “elephant print” from the Air Jordan 3 (another Tinker Hatfield design, much like the AM1), the retailer places it neatly on the Air Max 1 for an incredibly pleasant looking pair. Honoured with a re-release in 2017, many collectors consider this sneaker the holy grail!
Nike Air Max 90 "Infrared" (1990)
Yet another OG and yet another Tinker Hatfield design shows up in our list, is anyone beginning to sense a pattern here? Launched in 1990 and showcasing iconic features such as the cropped Swoosh logo and “tape-deck” Air unit surrounds, the AM90 is a cult classic, with the Infrared colourway being the cream of the crop. We’ve seen this sneaker re-release more than a few times, with the last edition hitting shelves back in 2020.
Nike TN/Air Max Plus "Hyper Blue" (1998)
Designed by Sean McDowell, the TN, or Air Max Plus is also a fan favourite from the Air Max family. Featuring “Tuned Air” for the very first time, the TN originally launched in three colourways and was inspired by a shadow cast by palm trees at sunset, hence the flowing design of the silhouette. Seen here is the “Hyper Blue” variant that dropped in 1998, with the sneaker’s signature exoskeleton holding the mesh upper neatly in place.
Sean Wotherspoon x Nike Air Max 97/1 (2017)
Launched as part of the “On Air” competition that featured creatives from around the world setting out to design their very-own Air Max sneakers, the Sean Wotherspoon x Nike Air Max 97/1 became an instant classic, combining two silhouettes that most sneakerheads already know and love. Combined with an eye-catching multi coloured corduroy upper and special edition touches such as Velcro tongue tabs, this pair was an instant winner.
Nike Air Max 1 "University Red" (1987)
The one that started it all. As the OG colourway of the Air Max 1, the “University Red” variant of Tinker’s legendary sneaker will always be a classic. Keeping things simple and refined, the silhouette is dressed in white and red, with key features such as the Swoosh logo on the sides and Nike Air branding on the tongues present as ever. Last seen back in 2023 as the “Big Bubble” variant that featured a period correct Air unit, could this be one of the best Air Max designs of all time?
Parra x Nike Air Max 95 "Running Man" (2008)
Launched in collaboration with Dutch artist Parra (not to be confused with Patta), the Nike Air Max 95 “Running Man” showcases the pinnacle of limited-edition Air Max design, hailing from the golden-age of sneaker collaborations. Featuring a gradient colour scheme and iconic Parra branding across the tongue tabs, this rare pair is still lusted after by sneakerheads around the globe today and it’s not hard to see why!
Nike Air Max 95 "Neon" (1995)
A sneaker that’s particularly favoured by the UK, the Nike Air Max 95 “Neon” is one of the greatest to ever do it. Designed by Sergio Lozano and inspired by trail running sneakers, the AM95 was nicknamed the “110” by UK consumers due to its £110 original retail price. The eye-catching “Neon” variant seen here looks as good today as it did in 1995. Last seen back in 2020, will you be looking to add this pair to your sneaker collection?
Supreme x Nike Air Max 98 "Snakeskin" (2016)
Supreme’s long and fruitful relationship with Nike took a step up in 2016, when the duo launched four different colourways of the scarcely-seen Air Max 98. In typical Supreme style, one of these colourways was seen in a vibrant snakeskin colourway, coming complete with Supreme “World Famous” branding and a full-length Air unit within the midsole. Could this be one of Supreme’s greatest Nike efforts to date?