Our Favorite Air Max Releases of the 2020s
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Matt Tompkins |We are now halfway into the 2020s, and we figure there's no better time to look at the our favorite Air Max releases so far. Air Max technology debuted in 1987, but Nike has been consistently pushing the movement until today. There've been groundbreaking collabs, true-to-the-original retros, and new models in the 2020s. Let's take a look at some of our favorites below.
Air Max 95 "Neon 2026 Big Bubble" - HM4740 001
To celebrate the 30th anniversary of Sergio Lozano’s masterpiece, Nike finally delivered the "Big Bubble" treatment to the Neon 95. This 2026 version features the larger Air units originally intended for the silhouette, alongside the iconic gradient suede panels. It is the ultimate "true-to-the-original" retro, correcting decades of slightly-off proportions to give purists the exact look of the '95 debut.
Air Max 1 "Patta - Monarch" - DH1348 001
The "Waves" collection from Patta redefined the Air Max 1 for a new generation. By swapping the traditional straight mudguard for a rhythmic, wavy cut, Patta breathed fresh life into the 1987 classic. The "Monarch" colorway, with its vibrant orange overlays and aged midsole, captured the early 2020s obsession with "vintage" aesthetics perfectly.
Air Max 95 "Levi's - Obsidian" - HM4743 400
Denim and Air Max have a long history, but the 2025 Levi's collaboration took it to a structural level. Utilizing raw Obsidian denim that fades uniquely with every wear, this pair turned the "human anatomy" layers of the 95 into a textile experiment. The contrast stitching and red Levi's tab on the heel made these a standout crossover for Americana and streetwear fans alike.
Air Max 1 '87 SP "Supreme - Purple" - HF8813 500
Supreme's take on the AM1 '87 was a masterclass in 90s New York grit. Dressed in a deep, regal purple with jewel Swooshes and "Supreme" branding subtly integrated into the mesh, it felt like an instant classic. We also loved the accompanying drop of matching tech-silk tracksuits, creating a head-to-toe uniform loved by hypebeasts and style icons alike.
Air Max Goadome "Taupe" - IU5915 200
The Goadome has always been a "concrete jungle" staple, but the 2024 "Taupe" release moved it into the luxury conversation. The standout moment for this SKU came when LeBron James was spotted in a tunnel fit wearing these with swapped-in bright red laces. That specific pop of red against the muted taupe leather transformed the rugged ACG boot into a high-fashion statement piece.
Air Max 95 "Corteiz - Pink Beam" - FB2709 001
London-based label Corteiz brought back the "chaos release" energy with their Air Max 95 collaboration. The "Pink Beam" features a dark, tactical upper contrasted by electric pink Air units and interior camo lining. It represents the shift in the 2020s toward localized, community-driven brands taking over global stages.
Air Max Muscle 95 "Yu-Gi-Oh!" - II7404 400 PC
An unexpected but brilliant fusion of pop culture and sneaker tech, the "Muscle 95" took the anatomical theme of the shoe and applied it to the "Duel Monsters" aesthetic. With holographic panels reminiscent of rare trading cards and a colorway inspired by the Blue-Eyes White Dragon, it remains one of the most creative uses of the Air Max 95 canvas this decade.
Air SNDR Max SP “Kids of Immigrants - Persian Violet” HF3286 500
The resurgence of the Sunder (SNDR) was a major storyline in the mid-2020s, and the Kids of Immigrants pair was the pinnacle. Featuring a unique shroud design and a palette that pays homage to the shared heritage of the KOI community, this release proved that the SNDR's futuristic 1999 design was actually ahead of its time.
Air Max 97 "Silver Bullet" (2022) - DM0028 002
The 2022 “Silver Bullet” retro was celebrated for its shape, which finally returned to the sleek, aerodynamic taper of the 1997 original. In a decade filled with wild colors, the metallic silver mesh and reflective 3M stripes remain the gold standard for futuristic design.
Air Max 2013 "Stüssy - Psychic Pink" - DR2601 600
While Stüssy is known for earthy neutrals, the "Psychic Pink" Air Max 2013 was a loud, monochromatic pivot that dominated the summer of '22. Unlike the hemp-heavy Fossil pair, this SKU features various fused plastic overlays and an airy mesh upper in a vibrant pastel hue. The inverted black Swoosh at the heel provides just enough contrast to make the "Psychic Pink" a standout in Stüssy’s extensive Nike archive.
What are you rocking for Air Max Day 2026?