Few technologies are as closely associated with Nike as Air. It’s undergone remarkable transformations, evolving from an invisible lightweight cushioning system to a visually prominent and iconic exposed technology that has been reconfigured, adapted and tuned to meet the needs of nearly every athlete. Integrated into 50% of all Nike footwear, Air soles are made up of at least 50% recycled material with more than 90% of its manufacturing waste reused in the production process, making Air one of Nike’s most sustainably-minded innovations.
The Air Garden is an interpretive exploration and celebration of the range of forms the technology has taken on in our pursuit of both performance and self expression. Like the circular process found in the manufacturing of Air soles, these sculptural furniture pieces and structures integrate recycled Nike Grind materials and leverage sustainable manufacturing processes to embody the ongoing story of Air and honor the brand’s vision of innovation.
Designed by Tinker Hatfield, the AirMax 90 was one of the early running shoes that incorporated the idea of “Visible” Air. As the successful follow up to the Air Max 1, the 90 solidified Air Max as a cultural icon and is a part of the foundation for which nearly all Air concepts are built upon.
The Nike VaporMax marks the first time in history that an Air unit touched the ground and directly gave way to many of today’s Air products. VaporMax is also recognized for solving a long standing challenge with flexibility in Air units by adopting a new technology where each Air bag is separated and allows more freedom to move as you do.
The 270 is Nike’s first Air bag designed specifically for lifestyle and has quickly become a staple for sneaker lovers everywhere. The 270 had, at the time, the largest Air unit ever placed into a shoe giving it a recognizably bold silhouette.
The Nike Air Max Scorpion was completely developed by Nike designers, engineers, and scientists pioneering new ways of working together virtually. Conceived within a condensed development timeline of 18 months, the shoe is a marker of how digital transformation is accelerating the culture of innovation within Nike. It introduces a radical system for Air units, moving from simple forms into complex new geometries for a unique underfoot sensation, and was created to bring wearers greater awareness of their movement. The result is the most Air on offer in terms of pounds per square inch, pressure graded (i.e. fine-tuned) across sizes.
