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Nike was the first brand to introduce the now, ever-popular Air-cushion technology within sneakers. The first ever sneaker (the Nike Tailwind) was brought to the market in 1978, way ahead of its time, with innovative compressed-gas pockets within the midsole that created a spring-like cushioning as well as a lightweight fit. In fact to prove how revolutionary the design was, the idea came from a NASA engineer, Frank Rudy.

At the very start of the most iconic look, where we first got a glimpse into the sole of Nike’s Air Max technology, we have the Air Max 1. Still today, it garners significant popularity with sneaker enthusiasts. This iconic sneaker evolved a few years later with the launch of the Air Max II, the Air Max Light. Replacing the forefoot polyurethane midsoles with an EVA foam sole allowed for a much lighter feel on the foot and the design was so successful that Nike is still releasing the design today in various colourways.

Then came the Air Max III, or later better known today as the Air Max 90 and the Air Max 180, both of which delved into creating a chunkier look without the bulky feel. Bigger air socket, bigger soles and a design was even made specially for the then president of the United States. Soon after, Nike came up with yet another design, the Air Max 93 that brought a bit of colour to the air units but also started focusing on the durability of the units, as well as looking more into the comforts of more of the upper parts of the shoes.

The first to start incorporating more than just one air unit, was the Air Max 95 and it used different air pressures to provide strategic cushioning in certain areas, another innovative design in sneaker technology. And then finally, full length air cushioning was born, with the Air Max 97. Inspired by bullet trains, the shoe brought a whole new unique look and feel, showing the brands willingness to ever-evolve its footwear.

Desiring to prolong their shoes longevity, Nike had invented the Air Max 360, with their max air technology now encapsulating the entire sole. Upon the launch of this sneaker, Nike made a return of the Air max 90, 95 and 97, but with the newer sole of the Air Max 360 and the air pockets were visible from every angle!

After a long wait, Nike re-introduced their Air Max design and completely revolutionised the look, eliminating all rubber and foam from the midsole and outsole, leaving the famous Air Unit to stand on its own. The Air VaporMax incorporated multiple air units that were strategically placed to absorb impact in the most naturally struck parts of the sole. The following year, Nike released their first ever lifestyle-influenced sneaker, the Air Max 270, a break away from the running alternatives and the air unit was placed within the heel itself. It was also the tallest Air Max sole to release to date, updating its design to fit a more fashion forward look that lifestyle pieces often demand.

One year later Nike updated the 270 and launched the Air Max 720. This sneaker brought the air units into more than just the heel, extending to the forefoot, but was still designed for lifestyle purposes. It was again taller in the sole than its predecessor by 6mm.

Nike has always been a fore-runner in sneaker technologies and continues to push the boundaries on air compression technologies and other innovative ideas such as self-lacing systems. Whatever the future holds for it’s Air Max range, you can rest assured to find the latest models here at Zando.co.za.