Air Max
Brand: Nike
Run: 1987-Current
Adaptations: Air Max2, Total Air, Tuned Air
Notable Models: Nike Air Max 1, Nike Air Max 95,
Visible Air, better known as Air Max, launched in 1987 with the Nike Air Max 1 running shoe and Nike Air Revolution basketball shoe. The idea to display the technology came from Tinker Hatfield and literally revolutionized both the brand and footwear. Dubbed lightweight, versatile, and durable by Nike, the cushioning system spans sports and time, focused on reducing the force of impact. Over the years, Air Max cushioning has evolved in size, visibility, name, and Air pressure.
REACT Juice
Brand: Converse
Run: 1992-1998
Notable Models: Converse Aero Jam, Converse Run ‘n Slam, Converse Backjam
Harnessed in the heel and the ankle, Converse REACT Juice was designed to flow around the foot when and where it was needed. Larry Johnson was the frontman for this freaky technology; a drastic departure from the classic and tech-less Chuck Taylor or Weapon models. REACT Juice was very visible from a commercial and aesthetic standpoint and was one of the first cushioning systems to claim responsiveness rather than absorb impact. The technology enjoyed roughly a six year run, mainly in basketball.
