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The Air Max 90 is one of the most iconic silhouettes in Nike’s storied history. Originally released in 1990, the shoe has transcended performance running to become a cultural staple in streetwear, sneaker collecting, and casual fashion. With countless collaborations and colorways over the years, narrowing down the top 10 of all time is no easy feat. Here, we’ve compiled the absolute best, ranked from number 10 to the undisputed number 1.
10. DQM x Nike Air Max 90 ‘Bacon’
SKU: CU1816-100
Release Date: 2004 (OG), 2021 (Retro)
Description: The ‘Bacon’ colorway, created in collaboration with NYC sneaker boutique Dave’s Quality Meats, is one of the most creative takes on the AM90. Inspired by the look of crispy bacon, the mix of red, pink, and brown tones made it an instant classic.
9. Staple x Nike Air Max 90 ‘Navigation Pack’
SKU: 308856-001 (Men’s), 308820-021 (Women’s)
Release Date: 2004
Description: Featuring a unique map graphic on the upper, the ‘Navigation Pack’ pays tribute to explorers and adventurers. It comes in a green/brown men’s version and a white women’s version.
8. Nike Air Max 90 ‘Warhawk’
SKU: 315728-381
Release Date: May 26, 2007
Description: Inspired by the WWII P-40 Warhawk fighter plane, this military-themed AM90 features shark teeth graphics and military green tones that make it one of the boldest designs ever released.
7. Dizzee Rascal x Ben Drury x Nike Air Max 90 ‘Tongue n Cheek’
SKU: 346115-191
Release Date: September 18, 2009
Description: Created in collaboration with British grime artist Dizzee Rascal and designer Ben Drury, the ‘Tongue n Cheek’ edition features premium materials, a soft pink and white colorway, and subtle branding that pays tribute to his album of the same name.
6. Atmos x Nike Air Max 90 ‘Duck Camo’
SKU: 333888-025
Release Date: October 5, 2013
Description: Created in collaboration with Atmos, this camouflage-covered masterpiece remains a grail in the sneaker community, blending bold patterns with classic Air Max DNA.
5. Nike Air Max 90 ‘King of the Mountain’
SKU: 315728-611
Release Date: June 13, 2008
Description: Inspired by hiking aesthetics, this rugged AM90 incorporated premium materials and bold color blocking, making it perfect for those seeking a more outdoors-inspired sneaker.
4. Nike Air Max Lunar 90 ‘Moon Landing’
SKU: 700098-007
Release Date: July 20, 2014
Description: With a 3M reflective upper featuring lunar surface graphics, this space-inspired sneaker celebrated the 45th anniversary of the Apollo 11 moon landing, becoming an instant hit.
3. Off-White x Nike Air Max 90
SKU: AA7293-200 (Desert Ore), AA7293-001 (Black), AA7293-100 (Sail)
Release Date: 2017 (Sail), 2019 (Black, Desert Ore)
Description: Part of Virgil Abloh’s “The Ten” collection, this deconstructed take on the AM90 featured exposed stitching, a reimagined Swoosh, and signature Off-White branding, making it one of the most sought-after collaborations in sneaker history.
2. Nike Air Max 90 ‘Homegrown’
SKU: 315728-331
Release Date: December 1, 2006
Description: Paying homage to Amsterdam’s street culture and coffee shop scene, the ‘Homegrown’ edition featured lush green suede and special branding that made it a cult favorite.
1. Nike Air Max 90 ‘Infrared’
SKU: CT1685-100
Release Date: 1990 (OG), 2020 (Retro), & many other varying models
Description: No list of the greatest Air Max 90s would be complete without the original ‘Infrared.’ Its legendary status, timeless design, and cultural impact make it the undisputed number one Air Max 90 of all time.
Nice Kicks has more information on Nike Air Max and upcoming sneaker release dates.
