Nike Boyz

Since birth, Friday December 18, 1992, I've worn and loved Nikes, period. The marketing, apparel, everything. Whether it was a new pair of Jordans, the IX's and XI's as a toddler, or a Nike Sportswear release, pops would have me in a nice pair. I'm not sure he knows how much I appreciate that, or if he knew what he was cultivating, but I can recount the majority of my sneaker collection from childhood to this day. No, I'm not endorsed by Nike, yet lol, and no I don't have the disposable income to even attempt to purchase the latest designer collab, or limited release *shrugs*. We're here to chat about the sneaker that changed the game for a struggling Nike brand, and my personal favorite, the Air Max 1. 

The Bred 1's are not more important (to me) design wise than the AM1(pictured above are my Dad's OG Bred 1's). The visible air unit on the Air Max 1 was the first to feature a visible "Nike Air" unit, invented by Frank Rudy and released in 1987. Designed by Tinker Hatfield, the man, THE MAN, behind the golden era of The Air Jordan signature line and countless iconic Nike Sportswear designs. To this day the Air Max brand, a whole universe full of visible air unit sneakers, is still Nike's best.

have two pairs of AM1's in my current collection of sneakers. The Patch Collection, "Sand" colorway and The Premium QS "Hyperpunch" colorway. The OG Red (above) has eluded me for some time now, however. But, the Air Max 1 can take you anywhere; around campus, to the lounge/bar, or to that business casual work mixer you want to stand out for. Durability is the least of your concerns with this iconic sneaker, which ones to get your hands on would be your biggest.

If you do grab a pair, or any other Nike for that matter, the black sole (pictured) is a must. Why? It brings the shoe into focus, and makes it "pop" if you will. In recent years Nike has ruined many a shoe by neglecting this design detail that was standard in the company's golden era of the 90's. No it doensn't HAVE to be black, but a darker color will serve you well. My friends smirk and roll their eyes when I say this in my 'expert voice' but its a MUST! The AM1 has seen resurgence lately with the Jewel Emblem releases, but the OG silhouette will always reign supreme in my heart. 

Tweet me your favorite iconic sneaker or sneaker memories, good or bad! (@_cheflem).