The Nike Air Max is a series of footwear produced by Nike, and the first model was introduced in 1987. Shoes with Air Max midsoles are characterized by the inclusion of flexible urethane pouches filled with pressurized gas that are visible from the outside of the shoe and are designed to cushion the underfoot.
Tinker Hatfield, a Nike employee who designed stores, originally came up with the concept of Air Max.
The Nike Air Max is regarded as one of the greatest collections of kicks in the sneaker world, bringing lightness to everything. Each and every one of the Air Max sneakers utilizes the now legendary Air Max unit to reduce impact and get sneakerheads excited for any series!
One of the problems with the Nike Air Max is the fact that there are so many different series of the design in its current form that it is really confusing to choose from them all. The good news is that you won’t need to worry about this anymore since we have compiled a list below for you of which we think are the best Air Max models that you can purchase on Amazon.
Best Nike Air Max Reviews
The Best Of The Air Max 1 Shoes
Nike Men’s Air Max 1 2021
Featuring Nike’s Air Max technology for the first time, the Nike Air Max 1 “Martian Sunrise” features a premium design. In its original 1987 release, the Air Max 1 was Tinker Hatfield’s idea and is undoubtedly one of Nike’s most iconic silhouettes.
Throughout the history of sneaker shoes, many iconic shoes have been adorned with patent visible Air technology.
As with the design of its inspiration, the “Martian Sunrise,” features a unique leather style, featuring a white leather base, grey overlays, and bright orange accents on the branding, graphics, and mudguards.
Embroidered on the toe of the shoe is a mini Swoosh in white. To finish off the look, there is a clear Air unit in the heel on the midsole, which is consistent with the original Air Max 1.
This series was only released this year but still follows the same qualities as the Air Max 1, which is why it is recommended to take advantage of buying this if you cannot get your hands on the originals that were released all those years ago.
In terms of it being a collectible item, nothing will ever be able to beat the original Air Max 1, but if you want to be able to show off your model and wear it, then this is the best option for you.
- Comfort – hard to find a better comforting pair of sneakers.
- Nostalgic design – another homage to the original series of Air Max.
- Durable – a sneaker designed to last a lifetime!
- Can run small – best to check your size before you buy.
The Best Low-Top Nike Air Max
The Air Max Motion 2
Nike introduces a shoe with an extremely smaller design frame and a sporty silhouette that scores well due to the breathability and lightweight comfort that this shoe has to offer.
This may give you a tighter fit so keep that in your mind when you come to purchasing a pair like this. We recommend this shoe because it sticks to the previous series that contain a rubber sole, which promotes the comfort and stability of the shoe.
Optical visibility is provided by the U-shaped Max Air element, which also provides a cushioned feel under the foot. It also has durable mesh upper with seamless covers.
This shoe also takes inspiration from the Air Max 720 with its heel clip. There is no doubt this shoe pays tribute to an extremely iconic shoe. There is something really cool about this shoe, namely the rubber in the heel, to go along with the classic Air Max unit on the outsole.
Furthermore, the forefoot features injected foam for a soft cushioned feel. This shoe has a thin, flat tongue and traditional lacing system that will ensure a perfect fit, although for some this could be tight.
- Lightweight – ensures comfort and helps with unrestricted movement when playing sport
- Fashionable – look really good on the feet and perfect for casual wear
- Expensive – some people may find that these Air Maxs are a little outside of their budget
- Demand – can be hard to get hold of due to popularity
The Nike Air Max Motion
Featuring a breathable mesh upper with seamless covers for a classic look, this is the older version of the motion design.
Air Max’s characteristic U-shape element and heel clip ensure a high visual and a high level of cushioning. It is entirely up to you to decide what shoe you prefer, but there are not many differences between them except for the colors.
In the end, you will be pleased with either series and it’s a great shoe to add to your collection if you prefer the classics over the newer models.
It is true that low-top shoes are not designed to provide the same level of injury protection as high top shoes, but they have their own benefits that larger shoes simply cannot match. The main advantage is that they allow for greater mobility, but they are also much lighter.
- Breathability – prevents your feet from getting overly sweaty and ensures you’re comfortable while wearing them
- Design – a timeless, classic look that will never go out of style
- Cost – sit at the higher end of the price range, meaning they aren’t suitable for everyone’s personal budget
- No injury protection – these sneakers don’t offer any injury protection features, so they aren’t the best for playing sport in
Nike Air Force Max Low Top Mesh Basketball
You will come to find we have recommended three Air Max low-top mesh shoes. This is because they are all absolutely brilliant.
The low-tops are ideal for basketball players and this shoe specifically is made for it. The low-tops won’t provide you with as much protection from injuries as high-tops do, but that isn’t a problem. As a result of its lightweight construction and comfort, you’ll always stay on your toes when you move.
The next time you play your favorite sport, be sure to select a pair of shoes such as this one because once you demonstrate your skill, you will easily leave your opponents far behind.
Providing a secure lockdown and versatile style, the Midfoot Strap is a versatile and secure solution. Maximum impact absorption is provided by the full-length Max Air unit.
It still provides you with some ankle support with the clever design, but the main goal is to help with movement. Lastly, the heel counter will support you better for those dunks you’ll be doing on the court.
- Comfortable – suitable to wear all day long without your feet getting fatigued
- Lightweight – ensures further comfort and helps with movement
- Design – the cool, stylish look really captures the Air Max technology
- Expensive – another pair of Nikes that may not be suitable for all budgets
- Sizing – some people have found that these run a size small, so it’s worth checking the measurement chart before ordering
The Best Of Nike Air Max 97 Shoes
Nike Air Max 97’s
These Air Max models are one of the most classic series that has ever been made public. The air cushioning is all the way along the bottom of the shoe.
There is no doubt that Christian Tressler designed the Air Max 97, which was inspired by various things for each design but one thing is certain: it has become a staple of the sneaker community over the past few years.
There are so many different colorways you will come to find now that you will almost certainly find the right pair for yourself.
Despite the fact that it may not be the cheapest shoe on the market, this trendy shoe’s popularity is unmatched, and it is certain that you will feel cooler when you wear them.
No matter where you walk down the street, you are likely to see someone wearing a pair of these shoes, and the majority of the time it will be the most recent release.
Despite the constant release of new colorways of the Air Max 97, Nike always aims to pay homage to the classic 1997 release of that shoe.
Sneakerheads know just how valuable the first pair of a series is and if you happen to be able to get your hands on one of the originals, you’re extremely lucky.
Even over 20 years after its first release, these Air Max models are still among the most popular, and with its unique features over the rest, it is no surprise.
- Comfortable – a classic sneaker that is comfortable enough to wear all day long
- Stylish – a classic design that will never go out of style, paying homage to the original design
- Expensive – may be a little costly for some people
- Sizing – as with most Nike Air Maxs’, these can run slightly small
The Best Of Nike Air Max 720 Shoes
Nike Air Max 720
As the successor to the Air Max 270, the Air Max 720 is characterized by its space-age design and bulky Air unit, and is the tallest unit in the timeline of Air Max.
All of these features come together to create one of the most exciting sneakers of the 21st century that has become impossible to ignore.
This shoe has an alien-like appearance with how big the Air Max Unit actually is and it really is the focal point of the shoes. It is hard to not love this shoe with how modernized it has become and with how much attention to detail has gone into it.
Featuring a mesh upper with waves, lace-up closure, padded collar and tongue, and rubber outsole, this sneaker has a minimalist look to it.
Since it has become a developed version of the Air Max 270, you will find that there is not much difference between both, so it comes down to personal preference as some of you won’t want to be too modern.
- Large Air Max unit – captures the Air Max technology and adds to the overall look of the sneaker
- Comfortable – features a padded collar and tongue and a mesh upper for ultimate comfort
- Narrow – Some people found that they felt a little tight on the feet at first
- Price – these are some of the most expensive Air Max sneakers available
The Best For Gymnastics And Workouts
Nike Air Max 270 Shoe
The sole of the shoe is designed in such a way to provide maximum support for the entire foot.
Despite being considered a running shoe, we have found that there are better in the market that we have previously discussed. Whereas this pair has become very popular among gymnasts and we can see why!
In addition, the Max Air unit in the heel of the shoe provides you with reactive cushioning on repeat, so it’s perfect for any heavy falls that you may experience and it will benefit you for performing many different exercises.
Forefoot flexibility is enhanced with the articulated flex grooves that makes it perfect for keeping you confident. You’ll have excellent traction and resistance thanks to the rubber sole.
You must wear this at the gym as it will benefit you when you use the machines or when you are using weights. This is because you will receive that extra bit of support that you require to achieve your goals.
The shoe comes in a variety of different colors, so you can match them up with your team colors, or with whatever you prefer as a personal preference.
- Comfortable – renowned for being on of the most comfortable Air Max sneakers available
- Colors – comes in a wide variety of colors, giving you the opportunity to really build your sneaker collection
- Protection – designed to help protect your feet and ensure you’re as comfortable as possible
- Sizing – a common theme with Nike Air Max; these sneakers have been reported as running slightly small
The Best For The Beach
Nike Men’s Air Max Camden Slide Sandal
If you are a huge fan of Nike Air Max footwear, then you are certain to want to add these to your collection!
The style of this Air Max is somewhat different compared to the classic Air Max, however, you can still expect to find the qualities of the Air Max unit that you knew and loved.
This Nike Air Max Camden Slide will provide you with high levels of comfort and cushioning. An Air Max visible air unit is featured in the heel of this sandal, as well as a cushioned footbed, a flexible outsole, and a comfort strap.
Even though this shoe may not provide you with the ankle support that you expect to find in most of their shoes, it still provides you with a unique feeling that sets this shoe apart from the rest in its family.
There may be a lot of people who find this Air Max hard to look at because of the color. The black and grey colours don’t seem to go well with the striking green of the Air Max and will take a lot of time and patience to get used to.
Although not everyone will have this type of Air Max, do not let that put you off this quite different pair of shoes. Whether you wear it around the house or on vacation, it’s a great comforting shoe you’ll forget you’re wearing!
- Comfortable – features a cushioned footbed, flexible outsole, and comfort strap
- Unique design – a different style to all other Air Max designs, adding even more interest to your sneaker collection
- No ankle support – doesn’t offer a great amount of protection when playing sport
The Best Nike Air Max For Running
Nike Air Max Torch 3 Men’s Running Shoes
Shoes like these are great for runners who want a stylish dark running shoe that is both comfy and durable. They are a runner’s dream. I know it sounds unbelievable but it weighs in at a mere 7 ounces, which is just about as light as one can get in a running shoe.
Due to this lightness, these shoes are extremely comfortable to run in, and many runners have described running in them as being similar to running on clouds or air.
As you can see, the technology behind these is incredible and it still adheres to the Air Max technology, which helps support your heel and provide you with energizing movement when you run.
- Comfortable – features a cushioned footbed, flexible outsole, and comfort strap
- Unique design – a different style to all other Air Max designs, adding even more interest to your sneaker collection
- Limited sizing – some people found that these sneakers had limited sizing available
Nike Women’s Race Running Shoe
The women’s running shoe has been designed to make you feel confident and look good while you run. It is a shoe that is made of rubber soles and the thick padded collar is designed to provide you with a great deal of comfort while you are wearing it.
Your run will be more enjoyable with the Air Max unit keeping the heel sturdy and preventing any harmful impacts. The waffle appearance seen on the outsole of the shoe provides a great amount of traction you wont get with other running shoes.
- Lightweight – don’t feel heavy on the feet and are comfortable enough to wear all day long
- Design – smart, fashionable design suitable for all occasions
- Durability – designed to last in all types of conditions
- Narrow – some people found that these shoes felt a little tight on the feet to begin with
Summary
It is hard to imagine what will be next after the Vapormax and the Air Max 720. At this point, we don’t know if we will be able to fit any more Air Max units into a shoe, but knowing Nike, they will figure something out that will blow us all away.
The next possibility is that Nike’s self-lacing technology will be coupled with Air Max cushioning to create something entirely new. I am sure we can agree that this is something we would love to experience on our feet.
With this guide of the best Nike Air Max available on the market, we hope you can now decide which pair is right for you. There are so many qualities about the Nike Air Max that it is just amazing to own a pair.
There are many different models of shoes, but this one is perhaps the best of all when it comes to comfort, and you can be sure to appreciate this regardless of whether you are using them for exercise or just everyday use.
Each design has had a lot of thought put into it and the history of the Nike Air Max unit has only gotten stronger.
In terms of popularity, we do not expect anything to replace the Air Max model anytime soon as it has been an integral part of Nike’s success over the years, and we look forward to what lies ahead!
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are Nike Air Max so Expensive?
The main reason why Nike Air Max sneakers are so expensive is because of what goes into their technology. This technology makes them so much more comfortable than any other sneakers out there. The Air Max units are one of the main contributors to their high price tag.
Why are Nike Air Max Sneakers so Popular?
These sneakers are so popular because of how fashionable they are and the type of people that wear them. There have been a number of instances where celebrities have been seen wearing these on their days off running errands and look so stylish that their fans often follow in their footsteps.
Can Nike Air Max be used for Multiple Purposes?
Absolutely! These sneakers have been built in such a way that they are great for many different occasions. They are the perfect shoes for going for a run, playing basketball, or even just for casual use!
