Nike Sportswear SS16 Air Collection

The Air’s technology debut came with the legendary Nike Tailwind in 1978, the first running shoe characterized by the so-called Air sole. This revolutionary sole was pioneered by two ex aerospace engineers – Rudy Frank and Bob Bogert – who allowed an unparalleled shock absorption and cushioning.

The Tailwind debut the same year in Hawaii for the Honolulu Marathon in a limited edition, with broader distributions in 1979. Though not immediately accepted, a certain interest showed up from runners, curious to try the new “Air pockets”. The Nike Tailwind became a real running shoe, versatile with its breathability, durability and Nike Air cushioning.

It was only in 1982 this new technology was introduced in the basketball world with the Air Force 1, which conquered professional players and fans gathered in the hip-hop community thanks to its original design, which contributed to turn this shoe into an icon.

“Air in a box” was the slogan of the advertising campaign used for the launch of the Nike Air Force 1, which has linked the sport to the street and the hip hop culture and since then has become a real off-court fashion statement.

Although in 1984 the production was interrupted, the demands remained high and two years later Nike decided to make the shoes return to the field, stronger than ever.

The new Nike Sportswear SS16 Air Collection revisits that very special interest in personalizing on-court style, juxtaposing the 'Old school' design with contemporary ones for a "new generation able to compete without fear and with style".

The new AF1, available in red, white, blue and black, is updated with features that include a strip as a new detail in the midsole and star clusters on the tongue and heel.

The iconic sneaker comes with an apparel collection designed specifically with lengths and overlapping games that emphasize its contemporary, with the addition of practical details like spacious pockets to contain what we never want to lose.