At Star Cleaner, we don’t just clean kicks—we respect the legends. And few sneaker lines carry the weight of Air Max. From groundbreaking tech to streetwear royalty, Nike’s Air Max series has done it all. So let’s lace up and walk through the history of this game-changing shoe.
1987: The Birth of Air Max
The Air Max legacy began with a revolutionary idea: put the Air on display. Designer Tinker Hatfield took inspiration from Paris’s Centre Pompidou, flipping sneaker design inside out—literally. With the Air Max 1, Nike exposed the midsole’s air unit for the first time, merging form and function in a way that felt futuristic. And yeah, people felt it.
1990–1995: The Golden Era
Nike followed up strong with the Air Max 90, Air Max BW, and Air Max 95—each bolder than the last. The 95, designed by Sergio Lozano, took cues from human anatomy (look closely: it’s a spine and ribs). It introduced forefoot air units, gradient panels, and neon vibes that became instantly iconic.
This was more than comfort—it was attitude. Air Max became a symbol of rebellion, style, and sneakerhead credibility.
1997: Air Max Goes Full-Length
Enter the Air Max 97—the first to feature a full-length air unit. Inspired by Japanese bullet trains, its sleek, wavy upper and hidden lacing pushed the line into the future. Metallic Silver became the colorway, and the streets (and clubs) never looked the same.
2000s–2010s: Innovation Meets Nostalgia
Nike kept innovating with models like the Air Max 360, Air Max 2015, and Vapormax—but the classics never left. Retro re-releases and collabs (shoutout to Atmos, Off-White, and Travis Scott) brought old heat to new feet.
Air Max Culture Today
It’s not just about running anymore. From music videos to sneaker expos, Air Max is culture. Every March 26th, sneakerheads worldwide celebrate Air Max Day, dropping limited releases and flexing grails.
Keep Your Air Max Fresh
If you’ve got Air Max in your rotation, you’ve got to protect the legacy. Star Cleaner was made for this. No water, no brush, no mess—just quick-cleaning power that keeps your soles looking iconic.
Whether you rock the OG 1s, flex in 97s, or chase limited drops, remember: legends deserve care.
Good 4 the Sole. Always.