Japanese Influences Help Create This Nike Air Max 1

When we ring in the new year we know we’re only a couple of months out from Air Max Day which takes place every March 26. Starting in 2014, Nike created the holiday to celebrate the Air Max line as this was the day back in 1987 when the Air Max 1 was originally released. On top of retros of select Air Max styles, we also see The Swoosh bring forth new renditions like the upcoming Air Max Scorpion that celebrates the holiday. While not officially a part of the holiday (as of now), the Nike Air Max “Design By Japan” has just appeared and would be a perfect fit for the celebration of the iconic line.

Taking on a combination of nubuck and mesh, the sneaker takes on shades of cream, grey, green, and a vintage yellow that makes it appear as if it came transported from the 80s. Along the toebox and collar sits a grey mesh with the nubuck mudguard and quarter panel coming in an olive green hue. More nubuck land across the vamp which takes on a grey shade while the tongue and lace set come in a vintage cream hue. Atop the tongue sits a Nike-branded tag, however, instead of the current-day font, a retro-style typeface is used that would be found on early Nike sneakers. Another hit of branding detail gives the sneaker its name as the insole features the text “Design By Japan” in white. Working back to the heel you’ll find a hit of orange nubuck while the entire design of the sneaker is completed through a vintage cream midsole paired with a gum rubber outsole.

The Nike Air Max 1 Design By Japan is expected to release in 2023 through Nike and select NSW retailers online and in-store. Releasing in men’s sizing, the retail price is currently TBA. Keep it locked to our Twitter and the Sole Retriever mobile app to stay updated on the latest releases, raffles, news, and more in the sneaker and streetwear world.