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Nike finally ventured into the 3D-printed footwear realm by partnering with German-based company Zellerfeld last year on the Air Max 1000. A limited number of pairs were given away to around 1,000 people (this writer included) at ComplexCon, but there was no word as to when, or if, the 3D-printed Air Max model would be available to the public. Fast forward to June, and official images of an Oatmeal colorway appeared, shortly followed by a Paris-exclusive release of a Blue colorway for Paris Fashion Week. Now, Nike SNKRS has announced release info for the sneaker.
While the aforementioned Oatmeal colorway will be hitting Nike SNKRS in North America in limited quantities, the Black rendition will have a global release exclusively through Zellerfeld. The pair was one of a handful of color options on display at ComplexCon, with the 3D-printed portions of the sneaker done entirely in black. Inspiration for the design comes from Tinker Hatfield’s Air Max 1, with the most obvious homage to the decades-old design coming in the form of the “mudguard” that separates the smooth top half and textured bottom.
The proprietary filament used by Zellerfeld on the sneaker is printed in a way that makes it soft and spongy in the right places, yet durable and able to withstand continuous wear in spots it needs to. Contrasting the all-black look of this rendition is a volt green Air unit in the heel, stamped with Air Max 1000 branding on the lateral side and “Future Bowerman” text on the medial.
Having personally worn the sneaker a few times, there are a few things people should know before purchasing. The model runs slightly narrow, but quite long. Normally, a size 13 fits me in virtually all sneakers both in terms of length and width. However, the 13 here is a tad snug on the midfoot, while there’s quite a bit of room in between the toe.
Comfort is solid, with the forefoot having a more “cloud-like” squishy feel, while the heel (which features an inserted Air unit) is stiffer. One thing that needs to be stated is that putting the pair on is a task. The material grips your sock and tightens it around your toes. Personally, I have to take the shoe on and off multiple times before my toes don’t feel compressed.
The Nike Air Max 1000 Black will release August 19, 2025, exclusively through Zellerfeld’s website. The retail price is set at $180. Check below for official images, and download the Sole Retriever mobile app to stay updated on the latest releases, raffles, news, and more in the sneaker and streetwear world.
Images via Zellerfeld
Sneakerhead from South Florida who turned his passion into a career. When not writing for Sole Retriever, I enjoy watching films and discovering music. Follow me on Letterboxd @nickvlah For tips, reviews, or any shoes in a size 13, email nick@soleretriever.com
