When one hears the words ‘Air Max’, an array of iconic models spring to mind. Depending on the cult you belong to, perhaps it’s the Air Max 95, the Air Max 90, or the era-defining design of the Air Max 97. No matter which model you pledge allegiance to, it can be collectively agreed upon that Nike’s Air Max range has served up legends.
However, perhaps the most unsung hero of the Air Max family is the Air Max Tailwind line-up. As far as technology and performance goes, the series has produced some of Nike’s greatest innovations—yes, the iconic air bubbles, but also tooling and construction that redefined what an Air Max silhouette could look like. JD Sports have just released the Air Max TW—a shoe that encapsulates the best of the Tailwind’s innovations overtime—the perfect opportunity presented itself to explore the series’ dynamic history and legacy.
The Air Max Tailwind ‘96 was the shoe that started it all. While Nike had already produced two Tailwind models prior, this model marked the beginning of the Air Max Tailwind era. The model included a visible air cushioning update, with both big air units and a chunky, plush leather and terry cloth upper. It was considered one of Nike’s best runners of the decade, and integrated the Tailwinds into the larger Air Max family.
The second Tailwind in the series further evolved the shoe, with this particular model emphasising performance. Nike updated the full leather upper by making it predominantly mesh, and created a fully exposed heel bubble—as opposed to the former model’s segments of air. This model also employed elements of the Air Max 97’s design in its upper, generating greater cohesion between the Air Max Tailwind and Air Max lines.
The Air Max Tailwind III became a combination of its predecessors—with a focus on fit by sporting an asymmetrical upper to better hug the foot, and a reversion to the segmented heel bubble to better handle pressure. The design of the upper also provided ribbing on the fore toe and heel, serving a hint of what was to come from its successor.
The iconic Air Max Tailwind IV, referred to as the “Jailwind” in Australian streetwear culture, is what many would deem the crown jewel of the Air Max Tailwind series. The Tailwind IV was the first Air Max silhouette to have air bubbles on both the toe and the heel. With its aggressive yet beautifully contoured rib cage, there were signs from the beginning that this model would go on to become one of the greatest Air Max models of all time, and usher in a new era of design for the Air Max series.
The Air Max Tailwind V OG, released in 2000, found some success amongst Air Max heads due to its quilted upper, and of course, famed heel-to-toe bubbles that provided maximum comfort. However, this model fully found its stride some 20 years later after its redesign, the Tailwind V Plus, merged the shoe with Nike’s Tuned Air line. The reinvigorated iteration of the Tailwind V in the form of the V Plus, as well as the model’s the massively successful collab with UK Grime general and Air Max enthusiast Skepta—served to restore the Tailwind line to its former glory.
Off the back of the success of the Tailwind V Plus, Nike have added a new model to the family—the Air Max TW. If you’re in love with the classic look of the 90s, but have a thing for today’s fast-paced culture, the Air Max TW is for you. This retro revision sports all the best components of its predecessors. The heel is reminiscent of a combination of the beefed up heel bubbles on the Tailwind ‘96 and the Tailwind II’s heel counter, and the spray effect textile ribbing on the upper is a clear nod to the Tailwind IVs. The lightweight upper pairs angular and organic lines to create an entrancing haptic effect, and the contrasting colourways give you plenty of options when it comes to styling. The Air Max TW is a masterclass on the Air Max lineage, and an ode to the Tailwind legacy. You can cop them via the undisputed king of trainers, JD sports—online and in store.
