Choosing the best Air Max shoes for your collection can be a rewarding endeavor, given the diverse array of models available.
The Air Max series, originally developed from the Nike Air Tailwind, has significantly evolved since its debut in 1987. Nike's innovative Air cushioning technology and continuous design transformations have cemented the Air Max as a staple in the sneaker world, standing out from other icons like the Air Force 1 in that regard.
This relentless evolution is what keeps the Air Max relevant and one of the best sneakers around to this day. Nike's dedication to reinventing the silhouette has ensured its popularity endures, so we've compiled a list of the best recent releases to help you navigate the options.
Best Air Max sneakers
- Nike Air Max 1 '87 Premium "University of Oregon" - a unique 1
- Nike Air Max 90 GORE-TEX "Infrared" - best 90s design
- Corteiz x Nike Air Max 95 “Pink Beam” - a top-tier 95 collab
- Nike Air Max 97 "Golden Bullet" - a classic remade for the modern era
- Nike Air VaporMax Plus “Multigradient” - one for VaporMax fans
- Nike Air Max Plus OG "Voltage Purple" - more and more Air Max
- Nike Air Max 1 '86 "Royal Volt" - a truly retro design
1. Nike Air Max 1 '87 Premium "University of Oregon"
Best Air Max 1
We're kicking things off with where the Air Max started, although this particular design is a long way removed from your typical 1. That's because it debuted as a limited release for University of Oregon student-athletes. As a result, the sneaker features one of the most unique Air Max 1 designs we've ever seen.
To begin with, it features an eye-catching upper with an iridescent brown material at the toebox and a vibrant green variation around the collar. The design includes perforated tan leather overlays on the quarter panel and distinctive white and grey leopard print detailing on the eyestays too.
Adding to all this, you get a beige suede mudguard and a mottled brown suede on the heel counter. There's also the off-white midsole with visible Air technology, which is finished with a durable tan and off-white rubber outsole.
However, one of the best aspects of this sneaker is the gold embroidered motto "ONCE A DUCK," and "ALWAYS A DUCK" on the heel tabs, which captures the spirit of the university, and rounds off this completely whacky but superb Air Max 1.
Reasons to buy:
- It's a limited release that'll have you standing out from the crowd
- Combines some of the most unique materials you'll ever find on a sneaker
Read More: Best sneakers for men
2. Nike Air Max 90 GORE-TEX "Infrared"
Best Air Max 90
Paying homage to one of the OG Air Max colorways, this "Infrared" 90 is an absolute stellar release that takes versatility to a whole new level as it's wrapped in rugged GORE-TEX.
GORE-TEX essentially provides a waterproof and windproof layer to anything it's applied to. Where it has the edge, though, is that it lets whatever it covers breathe. For sneakers, this means you can confidently wear your shoes no matter the weather and remain comfortable while doing so.
In the case of this white, gray, and bright red colorway, you can lace up the shoes in both summer and winter and not worry about ruining that mesh and leather material beneath. That's great news because no sneakerhead wants to damage such an iconic colorway at the end of the day.
Reasons to buy:
- An iconic and OG colorway brought back to life
- GORE-TEX adds protection
Read More: Best sneakers for women
3. Corteiz x Nike Air Max 95 “Pink Beam”
Best Air Max 95
There haven't been too many Air Max 95s released over the last year. However, out of those that have debuted, we think the "Pink Beam" Corteiz collaboration is up there as one of the best.
The colorway dropped as part of a larger Cortez package and was first released in a pop-up store in New York, thus making the design incredibly hard to come by.
Even to this day, the sneaker isn't the easiest or cheapest to buy on the resale market. However, the design is so good that it had to be featured in our list.
The upper dominated by black contrasted by bright pink accents is a joy to look at, and of course, the pink Air bubble viewing windows are an excellent touch. Ultimately, this is a great sneaker and one that would fit well in any shoe collection.
Reasons to buy:
- A cool collaboration that brings a fresh take to the Air Max 95
- It's an incredibly versatile color scheme
Read More: Best Nike sneakers
4. Nike Air Max 97 "Golden Bullet"
Best Air Max 97
2023 saw Nike bring back an all-time classic Air Max colorway in the "Golden Bullet" 97. First debuted in the '90s, the sneaker has gone on to be one of the most sought-after Air Max on the market.
The design utilizes the same color blocking as the original. It's essentially the exact same as its "Silver Bullet" relative, except the silver upper is switched out for gold counterparts.
Contrasting the gold are bright red accents, specifically utilized for Nike branding. You also get a white midsole and a black outsole to match the interior lining.
On the whole, this is up there as one of the best colorways ever made. So, if you're looking to add a piece of history to your collection.
Reasons to buy:
- A gold Air Max is an absolute classic
- Accented perfectly by hits of red
Read More: Best low-top sneakers
5. Nike Air VaporMax Plus “Multigradient”
Best Air VaporMax
For a more modern, vibrant vibe, the Nike Air VaporMax Plus “Multigradient” colorway is unrivaled.
Apart from its pristine white laces, the entire design of the shoe showcases an array of neon shades. A gradient of peach, purple, and baby blue spreads across the neoprene upper and tongue, creating a visually striking effect that's bound to stand out on feet.
Around the midfoot, you get a transparent TPU caging, while the leather heel counter features a light blue shade that sets the tone for the decorative elements.
Scarlet swooshes and pull tabs add to the overall aesthetic, while hints of red and orange emanate from the tread to round off this bright, colorful, and out-there design.
Reasons to buy:
- Vibrant and colorful, if you're into that sort of thing
- One of the coolest bubbled outsoles out there
Read More: Best high-top sneakers
6. Nike Air Max Plus OG "Voltage Purple"
Best Air Max Plus
It's time to celebrate a classic, as the OG "Voltage Purple" colorway returned earlier this year, bringing a retro vibe to the Air Max Plus silhouette.
It was one of the inaugural TN Plus colorways, with this version combining dazzling purple mesh accented with a gradient white streak down the center. The design is enhanced with deep black hues enveloping the welded TPU overlays, rubber toe cap, and mudguard, which brilliantly contrast the bright orange Swooshes on each side.
The vibrancy continues with an orange Nike Air logo on the tongue and the iconic yellow TN logo on the heel, adding to its distinct appearance. The midsole, predominately in white, features orange Air units in both the forefoot and heel, connected by a purple plate for added detail.
That concludes an absolute gem of an Air Max, one that fits nicely into the wardrobe of almost any collection.
Reasons to buy:
- Has a futuristic look with plenty of visible Nike Air bubbles
- The hits of orange are bright and colorful
Read More: Best black sneakers
7. Nike Air Max 1 '86 "Royal Volt"
Best retro Air Max
As part of Air Max Day 2024, Nike brought back this stunning "Royal Volt" Air Max 1 with the same vibrancy and style as the original.
While the years may have rolled back with the design, thankfully the Air unit window didn't go back with it. Back in the '80s, Nike had to shrink the size of the visible unit to stop it from cracking in the cold. Thankfully, those days are in the past, and this "Royal Volt" sneaker showcases Nike's bubbly innovation in all its glory.
Alongside that, it boasts a cool grey suede and white mesh upper and bright blue suede overlays. It features a highlighter yellow outsole to match the Nike branding on the insole too, contrasting the color scheme up until that point.
With the Air Max Day date proudly displayed on the tongue as well, this is a truly retro Air Max and a great addition to anyone's wardrobe if they're a fan of the "Big Bubble" design.
Reasons to buy:
- Brings a retro feel to your feet
- Brightly coloured to help you stand out
Read More: Best white sneakers
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
With so many Air Max sneakers to choose from, you may have a few questions about them. Don't worry though because we've answered some of the most commonly asked queries right here.
Where can you buy Air Max sneakers?
There are several places we'd recommend exploring for new Air Max shoes, many of which we go more in-depth on in our list of the best places to buy sneakers right here.
Our first recommendation is to visit the Nike store directly as it tends to be the first place you'll find new Air Max drops, plus Nike offers a 60-day (30 in the UK) returns policy in case you're not 100% satisfied with your order.
Nike also has a useful launch page called SNKRS. New Air Max colorways usually get listed here ahead of their release, with the website allowing you to sign up for push notifications about specific sneaker drops as well.
If the Air Max sneakers you're after are sold out at Nike, then we'd suggest heading over to the resale market on websites like StockX and GOAT. Both authenticate every purchase to ensure the second-hand sneakers you're buying are legit.
When do new Air Max sneakers drop?
There's no specific date or time when Nike releases new Air Max sneakers. Nike tends to drop new shoes seemingly at random throughout the year, thus making it hard to keep up with the latest drops.
That said, the aforementioned SNKRS launch page is worth checking from time to time as Nike lists its most sought-after upcoming releases here ahead of time.
However, we try to cover any new drops ahead of time on RealKit. So, if you're looking for the latest Nike Air Max, make sure you check in with us to see what's on the horizon.
Are Air Max sneakers comfortable?
In terms of comfort, Air Max sneakers are renowned for their exceptional feel, thanks to Nike's innovative air bubble technology integrated into the soles.
Nevertheless, it is crucial to select the appropriate size to ensure optimal comfort for your feet.
The easiest method is to trace an outline around your foot, measure its length and width, and then compare your measurements with one of Nike's size charts. This will help determine the right size of Air Max sneakers for you.
It's important to note that there may be variations in sizing between Nike and adidas, so be mindful of that when purchasing sneakers.
Do Air Max sneakers fit true to size?
Air Max sneakers generally run true to size. However, it's important to note that fit can vary slightly depending on the specific model and individual preferences.
Some people may find that certain Air Max models have a snugger fit, while others may have a slightly looser fit depending on the shape of your feet.
It's always a good idea to refer to the sizing charts provided by Nike or consult customer reviews for specific Air Max models to get an idea of the best size to choose. If you're unsure, you can also visit a physical store to try on different sizes and determine the most comfortable fit for you.
How long do Air Max sneakers typically last?
The lifespan of Air Max sneakers can vary depending on various factors such as frequency of use, intensity of activities, maintenance, and personal wear patterns. However, on average, Air Max sneakers can last years if stored and maintained correctly.
It's important to note that this estimate is just a general guideline, and individual experiences may vary. Some people may find that their Air Max sneakers last longer, especially if they primarily use them for casual wear rather than intense physical activities.
To ensure the longevity of your Air Max sneakers, it's recommended to follow proper care and maintenance guidelines provided by Nike. This includes cleaning them regularly, avoiding exposure to extreme conditions like direct heat, and replacing them when signs of excessive wear and tear, such as worn-out soles or reduced cushioning, become noticeable.
Are Air Max sneakers suitable for both men and women?
Yes, Air Max sneakers are suitable for both men and women. The Air Max line offers a wide range of styles, including unisex designs, as well as models specifically designed for men or women.
The availability of certain models will vary, but, generally speaking, you can pick up Air Max sneakers from Nike and other trusted retailers in both men's and women's sizing.
Can Air Max shoes be customized?
Yes, Nike Air Max shoes can be customized through Nike's customization platform known as "Nike By You" (formerly known as NikeID). This platform allows you to personalize various aspects of your Air Max shoes, including colors, materials, patterns, and sometimes even additional design elements like text or graphics.
With Nike By You, you can create unique pairs of Air Max shoes that reflect your style and preferences. Keep in mind that the extent of customization options may vary depending on the specific Air Max model and current offerings on the Nike By You platform.
At the time of writing, you can customize the likes of the Air Max 90, 95, and 97 if you desire. Just head on over to the Nike website and Nike By You and start customizing.
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