Nike Air Max Plus 3

Air Max Plus 3

In the late 1990s, Nike produced the very first Tuned Air sneaker. At the dawn of the new millennium, the popular running shoe received a design update that was so forward thinking, it still felt futuristic years later. Known as the Nike Air Max Plus 3, its key alteration was the reorganisation of its TPU overlay. While the overlay on the original Air Max Plus mimicked Floridian palm trees, the one on the Plus 3 features horizontal bands that swoop upwards towards the back of the foot, giving it a dynamic appearance and providing structural support from heel to toe. A similar effect is achieved by the plastic heel clip that extends out of the midfoot shank, thus delivering excellent protection in the back half of the shoe. Linear dashes along the sides of the heel counter also allow Nike to play with tonal contrasts and create striking colourways.

The upper of the Air Max Plus 3 is made from synthetic leather and mesh so it is both durable and breathable. Meanwhile, the rubber outsole incorporates classic waffle grip pads, and bouncy Air Max cushioning units tuned to specific pressures below the forefoot and heel offer maximum comfort. While the forefoot windows are surrounded by foam padding, the heel window has been fully opened up to give a 180-degree view. Captivating branding then appears all over the shoe, from the Tn logos on the tongue, insole, sidewall and outsole, to the words “Tuned Air” on the heel and forefoot, and the mini Nike swooshes on the flanks.

The Nike Air Max Plus 3 was a popular shoe in its time, developing a strong following around the world and particularly in London’s underground music scene. In 2019, it made a long-awaited comeback as Nike released eye-catching new colourways, thus giving a new generation of sneaker enthusiasts the chance to experience this sleek, stylish silhouette.