Your Guide to Nike Air Max 90

The Nike Air Max grew in popularity for its stylish designs and uniquely comfortable cushioning. Nike, Inc. first launched the line of shoes in 1987. This model owes its existence to Tinker Hatfield, whom many recognize as the designer of the equally popular Air Jordan. Subcultures such as the hip hop community, the early hardcore or gabba of Amsterdam, and the youthful chavs of Britain adopted the Nike Air Max as a favorite shoe, further increasing the trendiness of the brand.

The Air Max 90, also known as Air Max III, launched as the fourth version of the Air Max in 1990, becoming one of the best-selling classic styles of the Nike Air Max line. It remains a choice addition to many shoe collection.

Features of the Air Max 90
Commonly known as the Air Max III until its 2000 re-issue, Air Max 90's appeal from its unique elements transcends decades. The original colorway of white, black and cool grey with infrared exaggerate the thickness of the sole air cushion. Former American President George H.W. Bush even has his own pair of Air Max 90s. The Department of Nike Archives boasts numerous images of the customized Air Max 90 sneakers. It features AIR PRES branding, including a new colorway.

How to Confirm an Authentic Online Air Max 90 Purchase
Start with the packaging. Check the box for the Nike logo on the lid and the sides. The boxes bear details, such as style name (which should read Air Max 90), color, size, the location of its manufacturer, and a style number that is usually nine digits long.

Next, check the shoe itself for inside details, such as the style, year of its make, and its country of origin. The trademark Nike swoosh logo must appear finely stitched on both pairs of the Air Max 90.

Lastly, the soles of Nike Air Max 90 comprise flexible rubber, not plastic. Flexing the soles allows for a simple test. This style also bears a distinctive sole pattern.

Top Options for Nike Air Max 90s
While the Nike Air Max 90 line boasts a variety of sneakers too wide for an individual detailing each, five models deserve mention after receiving praise in the sneaker community: Essential, City QS, Jacquard, Ice City QS, and Breathe.

Nike Air Max 90 Essential
The Nike Air Max 90 Essential features a famously excellent cushioning and bears a sense of timelessness through its design and craftsmanship. Its revolutionary Air-Sole technology has been present since the 80's, but this model allows wearers to see it for themselves.

Nike Air Max 90 City QS
Nike Air Max 90 City QS has ventilated panels and provides protection from heavy impact with weightless cushioning. The textile and synthetic upper boasts breathable panels, and the Phylon midsole in the heel also sports the visible Air Sole unit. For better ground friction and mobility, Nike Air Max 90 also includes a rubber waffle outsole.

Nike Air Max 90 Jacquard
The Nike Air Max 90 Jacquard enriches the sport of soccer with the revolutionary look of the Magista, Nike's Flyknit feature. Other characteristics of this shoe include a woven textile upper, a Phylon midsole, flex grooves in the forefoot, and a characteristic green rubber outsole.

Nike Air Max 90 Ice City QS
The Nike Air Max 90 Ice City QS bears a combination textile and synthetic upper for support. It includes a Phylon midsole with the visible Air-Sole in the heel, bringing the Nike Air's signature level of balance and comfort. The rubber waffle outsole allows for further friction and reliability.

Nike Air Max 90 Breathe
The Nike Air Max 90 Breathe is an update from the Air Max 90, adding an anti-microbial liner that ventilates the shoe, allowing the foot to breathe. Men who choose this shoe have the option to wear it without socks if need be. The visible Air-Sole unit in the heel prevents hard impact on the foot, while the Phylon midsole provides cushioning.