Air VaporMax Flyknit

THE AIR OF THE FUTURE

Featuring a redesigned cushioning system, the Nike Air VaporMax running shoe offers a lightweight, dynamic, gravity-defying ride and a Flyknit fabric for flawless fit and comfort.

Lightweight cushioning

Air cushioning offers maximum impact protection, from heel to toe. The hollowed areas of the sole make the shoe incredibly supple and lightweight.

Perfect fit

Flyknit fabric provides a snug, comfortable fit that wraps around your foot for lightweight, breathable comfort.

Secure maintenance

Flywire technology: durable, lightweight cables that wrap around the midfoot and integrate with the laces for firm support and optimal stability.

More details
Reinforced structure at the tip and heel for a feeling of stability
Rubber reinforcements on the soleplate for added strength
Weight: 207 g
Heel / forefoot difference: 10 mm

ORIGIN OF THE DESIGN

The Air VaporMax opens a new era of Nike innovation. "It has completely transformed our design approach for Air technology," says Zachary Elder, a designer specializing in cushioning innovation. With VaporMax, designers really wanted to give athletes the impression of "running on air". They began by restructuring the Air unit to connect it directly to the upper. "It was the biggest challenge," says Tom Minami, senior shoe designer, but it was worth it. "With no midsole or sockliner, you'll rediscover the feel of Air cushioning. In previous Air Max models, the goal was to place as many Air units as possible in the outsole, but the VaporMax relies on more efficient use of the technology. "When you put your foot down, each lug goes into the Air unit, increasing the pressure," says Zachary Elder. "When you lift your foot, the pressure is released, creating even more dynamic cushioning." After working for seven years on this shoe, Zachary Elder and Tom Minami are eager to discover what the future holds for them. "I'm really proud of the product," says Zachary Elder. "This new approach represents a real turning point for Nike Air technology, and also for Nike. "

Origins of Nike Air Max

Nike's revolutionary Air-Sole unit became part of the Nike shoe line in 1978. In 1987, the Nike Air Max 1 was for the first time equipped with a visible air cushion in the heel. Now, in addition to feeling the comfort of the Air-Sole technology, everyone could also see it in action. Since then, Nike Air Max new generation shoes have been a constant hit with athletes and collectors, thanks to their striking color combinations and light weight, which offers a perfectly cushioned stride.

Origins of Flyknit technology
Nike Flyknit technology has been developed to meet the needs of riders looking for a shoe whose outfit, hardly noticeable, would be as comfortable and fitted as a sock. Nike has embarked on a four-year mission in which programmers, engineers, and designers have been thinking about creating the technology to make a mesh upper with static properties for structure and durability. Then, the precise placement of the areas of support, flexibility and breathability (all in one piece) has been redesigned. The result: an almost seamless, fitted and ultralight upper. This unprecedented precision maximizes performance while reducing cutting and sewing waste by an average of 60%. The equivalent of six recycled plastic bottles are used in each pair of Flyknit shoes, avoiding the disposal of thousands of tons of material.