So it became the Nike Air Max Zero - an idea that originated 29 years ago and has now been innovatively developed for almost three decades. This innovative idea was not immediately implemented in the first Nike Air Max shoe, but without it, the Nike Air Max 1 would never have been created. The idea for the Nike Air Max Zero laid the foundation. The one before the 1st
Nike had the technology. What was still missing was the perfect overall package to present the shoe to the world. Hatfield then set about developing this complete package. What happened next is history: Hatfield traveled to Paris and was inspired by the unique inside-out design of the Centre Pompidou. Upon his return to Oregon, he realizes the concept of a visible Air element in a revolutionary running shoe.
This is the story that is generally known. However, it is not entirely true. The Nike Air Max 1 was not developed in one go. Rather, it was created from several designs, one of the first being the Air Max Zero concept. While Hatfield unknowingly collected designs that would not be realized until years later, he focused on a shoe that simply had to offer superior comfort and top-notch performance.
This led to the creation of the Nike Air Max 1, which single-handedly revolutionized the running shoe industry. The visible Air element was soon introduced in basketball too. Over time, the Nike Air Max moved away from running and became a lifestyle classic that resonated around the world.
In all this enthusiasm, the Air Max Zero was literally lost, as it seemed to be just an unspectacular new edition of the Air Max. But this was to change by chance during a visit to the Department of Nike Archives, where the 29-year-old drawing was gradually being forgotten. While searching for inspiration for the second annual Air Max Day, the Nike Sportswear design team came across an interesting drawing.
Hatfield's goal was achieved with this drawing, and McMillan topped it off by adding the latest Nike innovations. These included technologies such as the newly introduced Air Max 1 Ultra outsole (last seen in the Air Max 1 Ultra Moire), a cored Phylon construction, Fuse uppers for less ballast without compromising support, and monofilament yarn mesh to create the unusual toe box without compromising breathability. Hatfield's original concept was thus realized.
On 26.3.2015 is Air Max Day. Wear your Air Max."
