Introduced to the world in 1987, Nike Air Max technology has become one of the most successful footwear features in the world, used across thousands of releases ever since its inception. Building upon the Nike Air concept that was first seen on the Air Force 1, Air Max instead exposes the Air unit for all to see, creating a striking visual effect that looks just as good today as it did in the ‘80s. We’ve seen countless popular sneaker silhouettes feature Air Max, with the technology itself even receiving several updates over the years.
Here at Crepslocker we’re huge fans of Air Max. Whether it’s 90s, 95s or even TNs, you can find plenty of our staff rocking them on the regular! However, we find our customers repeatedly asking the same question – how exactly does one lace a pair of Air Max correctly? It’s a good question, considering many pairs come unlaced from the factory. So without any further hesitation, let’s dive straight in and answer the question once and for all!
Best Overall Method
With so many different sneakers on the market, offering a “one-size-fits-all” approach isn’t easy. However, there are some generic rules that you can follow if you’re looking for an easy approach to making your sneakers look great. For starters, some pairs of Air Max will indeed come factory laced. If this is the case and you’re looking for a quick and easy solution, then simply loosening the factory laces can suffice. However, most sneakerheads aren’t huge fans of the factory method.
While it may look good from a distance, factory lacing is often inconsistent and won’t allow the true beauty of your sneakers to really shine. For best results, unlace the factory lacing and start from scratch. We suggest looping each end of the lace through the two bottom holes, coming from the outside and following the “over-under” method. Measure equal lengths either side and then continue this pattern until you reach your desired length. Many sneakerheads prefer to leave the top one or two lace holes empty. This should create a great-looking and comfortable result!
How to Lace Air Max 1
Designed by Tinker Hatfield and first gracing the market back in 1987, the Air Max 1 is the first-ever sneaker from the Air Max family. First launched in “University Red” and since seen in thousands of different variations, the AM1 remains a classic today and is particularly favoured by sneakerheads who enjoy running-centric silhouettes. Featuring a total of eight different lace holes, the lacing system on the AM1 is relatively understated compared to the rest of the design, although you’ll still want to ensure that it’s laced evenly and cleanly. We’d advise going for a medium tightness here, as the slimline nature of the silhouette will complement this nicely.
How to Lace Air Max 90
By 1990 Tinker Hatfield was ready to unleash his second Air Max creation, none other than the Air Max 90. Following a renewed design language and offering up a taller look, the AM90 housed plenty of recognisable characteristics, such as the cropped Swoosh logo and tape-deck Air unit surrounds. Now showcasing a total of nine lace holes (although the outer two are rarely used), the AM90 once again opts for a slimline lacing system, so much like the AM1, we’d advise following the “over-under” method and keeping things relatively trim.
How to Lace Air Max 95
While various Air Max models launched between 1990 and 1995, it wasn’t until the Air Max 95 hit the market that Nike clocked in with another timeless silhouette. This time around, the kicks were designed by Sergio Lozano, who had previously worked on the team over at Nike ACG. Offering a never-before-seen design language, the AM95 flipped sneakers as we knew them on their head, opting for a bulky and rugged look inspired by trail running. Unlike previous iterations, the AM95 features rope laces and lace loops instead of holes, allowing for a straightforward lacing process that doesn’t require any specific method. Plus, the bulky design of the 95s means that a loose approach works perfectly here.
How to Lace Air Max 97
Hitting the market in 1997 and created by Christian Tresser, the Nike Air Max 97 showcased another turning point in design language for the Swoosh. The OG “Silver Bullet” colourway remains a classic today, showcasing a flowing aesthetic that’s inspired by ‘90s mountain bikes and water droplets. Also note that the AM97 was the first Air Max to feature a full-length Air unit. The lacing system on this sneaker is almost concealed under a hidden panel, featuring rope laces once again for a streamlined look. Much like the AM95, this is a hassle-free process, although we’d once again opt for a tighter look here.