Since introducing visible Air cushioning with the Air Max 1 in 1987, Nike has built a legacy of innovation and design excellence around its iconic Air technology. Now, in 2024, the brand is embarking on a new chapter with the unveiling of the Air Max 1000 - a 3D-printed reimagining of the beloved Air Max 1 silhouette.
Produced in collaboration with the additive manufacturing experts at Zellerfeld, the Air Max 1000 represents a bold step forward for Nike's iconic Air line. The shoe's dramatic, sculptural upper is entirely 3D-printed, showcasing the potential of this cutting-edge production method to push the boundaries of footwear design.
For its debut, the Air Max 1000 has been dressed in a vibrant, all-over red colorway that allows the shoe's structural details to take center stage. The 3D-printed upper features a mix of smooth and textured surfaces, with the toebox and midfoot panels rendered in a sleek, uniform finish while the throat, lower vamp, and toe cap sport a more pronounced, carbon fiber-esque pattern.
Branding is restrained, with a single debossed Swoosh providing subtle identification. But the true standout element is the crystal-clear Air unit at the heel, which offers a window into the shoe's innovative internal cushioning system. This design cue pays homage to the inspiration behind the original Air Max 1 - the "inside-out" architecture of the Centre Pompidou in Paris.
"What excites me most about the Air Max 1000 is the new realm of design solutions made possible by next-generation manufacturing", said John Hoke, Nike's Chief Innovation Officer. "With 3D printing, we can achieve unparalleled control, precision, and expression - factors that are crucial not just for sport, but for pushing the boundaries of footwear design as a whole".
The Air Max 1000 represents a bold leap forward for the iconic Air Max line, fusing Nike's legendary innovation with cutting-edge 3D-printing technology. As the brand continues to redefine the future of footwear, the Air Max 1000 stands as a captivating glimpse into what's possible.
Eric Grischott
Born in Groningen in 1991, Eric Grischott is a linguist with a deep-rooted passion for art, music, and fashion. His academic journey led him to graduate in languages, further enriching his linguistic prowess. His thirst for knowledge and cultural immersion took him abroad, where he gained invaluable experience and insights. Eric’s linguistic expertise is not confined to just theory. He has honed his skills in French and German through specialized DELF and DELE courses, demonstrating his commitment to mastering these languages. His passions extend beyond languages, encompassing the creative realms of art, the rhythmic world of music, and the dynamic sphere of fashion.