Nike Air Max 1 La Ville Lumière WMNS
“History of Air”
tells the origins of Air technology and the Air revolution by retracing the most important stages of the Air max world.
An immersive experience to learn about the Air phenomenon from its origins through the evolution linked to Air technology and the models that have made it the cultural and global phenomenon of today.
“THE AIR MAX EVOLUTION”
Engineered and designed by Tinker Hatfield, inspired by the architectural concept of “Form follows function” and the design concept of the Centre Pompidou, where the invisible became visible, the first Air Max was born.
For the first time the Air Unit was clearly visible and not hidden in the design.
The rest is history.
Cushoning System
Max Air was Nike’s first visual expression of Air technology.
Inspired by the avant-garde architecture and the visible elements of the Center Pompidou in Paris, Hatfield created the Air Max, opening a real window on the sole. This is how he started a revolution in the world of shoes.
“THE EVOLUTION OF REVOLUTION”
With the launch of the Air Max 90, initially known as the Air Max III, Tinker Hatfield introduced changes to the previous model to make the Air Unit even more visible.
The concept design was that the silhouette should communicate a sense of “pure speed”, the Air Unit was increased to the maximum possible and the weight was reduced to make the shoe even lighter.
“EVEN MORE AIR”
Originally known as the Air Max IV, the Air Max BW took the “pure speed” concept of its predecessor to the next level with a more dynamic design and an even more visible Air Unit.
“180 DEGREES OF AIR”
The Air 180 was born from the ideas of two of the most important designers in history: Tinker Hatfield and Bruce Kilgore (creator of the Nike Air Force 1).
The Air Unit increased by 50% and was introduced a special neoprene collar for a more secure and comfortable fit.
The main feature of the design concept was the creation of an Air Unit visible at 180 degrees
“TINKER’S FAVOURITE”
With the launch of the Air max 93, the Air Unit was able to make a 270 degree turn, wrapping around the heel until it exited the sole.
Perry Auguer, to realize the design, took inspiration from the most improbable of things: a plastic milk bottle.
With the help of Kilgore and Hatfield it was possible to create this Air Max with a minimalist design and lightweight stretch fabric.
“NEON DEMON”
Created by designer Sergio Lozano, the Air Max 95 is a true icon.
For the first time in Air Max history, the Air Unit was placed in the heel and forefoot making the 95 the first shoe with a visible Air Unit along the entire length.
The design, inspired by the anatomy of the human body, reproduces fibers and muscles in its functionality.
“LA SILVER”
Created by designer Christian Tesser, the Air Max 97 “Silver Bullet” introduced many changes to the Air Max world.
Inspired by the Bullet-train, a Japanese super express train shaped like bullets (from which it takes its name).
The design introduced the first midsole made entirely with Air technology and the use of 3M material.
In Italy it became famous with the name “La Silver”, this model opened the doors of the Air Max world to a global audience: from the high fashion runways to the streets of the world.
