I remember about 15 years ago when 3D printing became much more prevalent, it felt like a game-changer. Suddenly, in a world with limited resources, you could literally make something out of nothing. Of course, I’m oversimplifying — like, a LOT — but nevertheless, 3D printing is still a big deal as it facilitates more creative freedom to those looking to bring abstract ideas (or even simple ones) from pen to paper, so to speak. And now, it’s even made its way to the sneaker world, and on arguably the most significant sneaker family of the past 50 years.
An Undisputed Icon
Even the most cursory sneakerhead recognizes the significance of Nike’s Air Max. Approached by former NASA scientist M. Frank Rudy, Nike ended up injecting pressurized air into its midsoles in 1978 with the Nike Air Tailwind. This tech would eventually make its way to its own line of sneakers in the mid-’80s when architect-turned-designer Tinker Hatfield came up with the Air Max 1, which was officially release in 1987 to critical and social acclaim.
Known for its visible gas-filled urethane pouches and wavy mudguard, the Air Max was truly a multi-sport shoe, with comfort that performs well for gym-goers and hoopers alike. And in the decades since, they’ve had incredible influence on the sneaker world.
What We Know About the Air Max 1000
Officially debuting at ComplexCon this weekend, the Air Max 1000 is a groundbreaking take on the Air Max silhouette in that it’s made from what looks like a single piece of 3D-printed material that encompasses the uppers and outsoles without a seam in sight. There is, however, an opening in the heel of the gloriously red body where you can see the hallmark Air pouch clearly.
Nike does seem to mix textures a bit throughout the shoe with both smooth and woven designs. And we can tell there’s a definite laceless design on top, contributing to the overall minimalist aesthetic despite the waves on the sides.
While there’s not a ton of info on the shoe as of right now, Nike has stated that this was manufactured with Zellerfeld — the de facto 3D-printing firm for the footwear industry. All we know is we can’t wait to see what else comes from this amazing leap forward.
Spec Sheet
Model: Air Max 1000
Materials: Unspecified
Release Date: TBA
Pricing & Availability
There’s no word on the release date or pricing as of yet, but attendees at ComplexCon this weekend can have the opportunity to win a pair of the Air Max 1000 sneakers. We can also make a safe guess that the shoe will make its release come Air Max Day this coming March 2025. Head over to Nike’s website to learn more.
Recap
Nike Air Max 1000 3D-Printed
Nike unveils its all-red 3D-printed Air Max 1000 for this weekend’s ComplexCon. There’s not much info about the shoe so far but you can clearly see its laceless design and seemingly monobloc construction.
