Nike Air Max Classic BW – A Brief History

We take a closer look at the NIKE AIR MAX CLASSIC BW, which shattered all expectations when it released back in 1991.

The AIR MAX CLASSIC BW was envisioned by Tinker Hatfield and originally released in the early ’90s. It utilised the same sole unit as the Air Max 90, that released a year earlier, but with a larger window in the heel, which resulted in it becoming colloquially known as “Big Window”. Although the BW name may not be particularly inventive, the silhouette’s enduring swagger is still undeniable. The original release was cloaked in Black, with the now iconic hits of Persian Violet providing a bit of pop. In the States, it became a staple of distance runners and, moreover, a favoured accessory of the era’s R&B stars — as countless album covers can attest to. The shoe had a similar impact on street-style in Europe, where it was swiftly integrated into the hip-hop and rave scenes on both the continent and in the UK, which is just one of the reasons why it is so great to see it make a comeback.

The AIR MAX CLASSIC BW, in its original Persian Violet, is being released alongside multiple colourways of the newly designed AIR MAX BW ULTRA, which reduces weight through a cored midsole and outsole, that are married to a lightweight and breathable upper of two-tone mesh. You can check out the various colourways and iterations that are available now via the banner below.