Nike has been a powerhouse in the sneaker industry for the entirety of the 21st century, with sneakers like the Nike SB Dunks and Nike Blazers being some of the most sought after kicks in recent memory. Aside from the company’s success with clothing and other fashion ventures, one of the reasons why the company has become so successful is because of the Nike Air Max 90, the third installment in the brand’s Air Max series.
The Nike Air Max 90 was initially released as the Nike Air Max III in 1990 as a follow up to the Nike Air Max II (currently known as the Air Max Light). Designed by Tinker Hatfield, it was believed to be Hatfield’s final shoe at the time. He strived to make it one of his best, most interesting sneaker designs, pushing the brand’s Air technology, which was brand new at the time. The technology was first introduced with the Nike Tailwind, but the Air Max 90 helped to pioneer it. It was the first sneaker to openly showcase the Air technology, highlighting it with colored accents around the midsole. Released in the “Infrared” colorway, this sneaker was an instant hit due to its flamboyant showcasing of the Air technology. It quickly became one of the biggest sneakers of the ‘90s, with the “Infrared,” “Radiant Red” and “Laser Blue” colorways all helping elevate the sneaker’s status.
Since the Nike Air Max 90 was thought to be Tinker Hatfield’s final sneaker, he made sure its design would be eye-catching and wanted to get people talking. Initially retailing for $110 USD, the Nike Air Max 90 is made up of a synthetic leather upper and synthetic suede, with the Air technology being housed in the midsole. It is showcased by a transparent opening within the midsole, which is highlighted by a surrounding color different from that of the base. This all makes for a comfortable, stylish sneaker that works with all types of outfits, no matter how casual or eye-catching.
Since its release in 1990, the shoe has become a staple in Nike’s catalog. With the Air technology becoming commonplace, it’s no surprise that the hype for the Air Max 90 has died down a bit. But don’t get it twisted, the shoe still has influence, spawning follow up sneakers such as the Nike Air Max 2090. Nike’s Air Max 90 helped pioneer Air technology and is still relatively loved today, often being seen on the feet of casual sneakerheads and paired with modern outfits, cementing its status as a timeless shoe.
What are your thoughts on the Nike Air Max 90? Are you a fan of the silhouette or do you prefer a different installment in the Air Max series? Let us know your thoughts on the Nike Air Max 90 in the comment section. If you don’t own a pair, we suggest copping the “University/Red Midnight” colorway here or the “Mountaineering” colorway here.
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