The Nike Air Max 1 Review & Lab Test: Shop Men’S & Women’S Models of 2026

The Nike Air Max 1 is a notable lifestyle sneaker that serves as a foundation for the entire Air Max collection. This shoe is ideal for those seeking comfort and support during extended wear, making it suitable for casual outings and daily activities. The design provides significant cushioning and stability, translating to effective performance on various surfaces.

With its approachable price point, the Nike Air Max 1 can seamlessly integrate into your wardrobe, appealing to diverse generations and social groups. Its enduring appeal is backed by a legacy of reliable comfort, ensuring it remains a mainstay in footwear collections.


Pros

  • Historical silhouette (first-ever visible Air Max)
  • Responsive Air Max cushioning
  • Comfortable for all-day wear
  • Very supportive construction
  • Extraordinary durable
  • Lighter than expected
  • True to size and fit
  • Great outsole grip

Cons

  • Lacks breathability
  • Really stiff platform
  • Cheap materials (fake leather and suede)

Key Features

  • Durable construction with a mix of leather, textile, and mesh for breathability and comfort.
  • Foam midsole paired with a Max Air unit delivering lightweight cushioning originally designed for running.
  • Rubber outsole providing excellent traction and durability.
  • Fashion-forward design embraced by hip-hop culture, making these sneakers a versatile choice for various occasions.
  • Available in multiple colorways to suit your personal style.

Specifications

  • Origin: Imported
  • Sole material: Rubber
  • Outer material: Leather, textile, and mesh combination
  • Closure type: Lace-Up

Nike Air Max 1 Review & Lab Test: Shop Men’S & Women’S Models – Price, Ratings, Reviews & Sales Insights

Nike Air Max 1 New Balance 580 ASICS Gel 1130 New Balance 9060
Price $140 $150 $100 $150
Style Classic Classic Dad Classic
Breathability Warm Breathable Warm Moderate
Weight lab 13.3 oz / 378g 14 oz / 397g 12.9 oz / 366g 15.1 oz / 427g
Size True to size True to size True to size True to size
Midsole softness Balanced Balanced Soft Soft
Material Mesh Leather Leather Mesh
Season Spring Summer Spring Spring
Inspired from Running Running Running Running
Width / fit Medium Medium Medium Medium
Toebox width Medium Medium Medium Narrow
Leather/suede quality Fake suede Real leather Real leather Real suede
Toebox durability Decent Decent Decent Decent
Heel padding durability Decent Decent Decent Decent
Outsole durability Good Good Good Good
Heel stack lab 32.2 mm 34.8 mm 32.3 mm 37.3 mm
Stiffness Stiff Stiff Moderate Moderate
Tongue padding Average Average Average Average
Drop lab 12.1 mm 10.3 mm 10.0 mm 11.3 mm
Forefoot 20.1 mm 24.5 mm 22.3 mm 26.0 mm
Removable insole
Heel tab None None None None
Torsional rigidity Stiff Stiff Moderate Moderate
Heel counter stiffness Moderate Moderate Moderate Moderate
Reflective elements
Closure Laces Laces Laces Laces
Top Low top Low top Low top Low top
Ranking Top 24% Bottom 14% Top 5% Top 19%
Popularity Top 23% Bottom 31% Top 4% Top 1%