AT THE ORIGIN OF DESIGN
T he Nike Air VaporMax opens a new era of Nike innovation. "It completely transformed our approach to the design of Air models," explains Zachary Elder, designer specializing in cushioning innovation. With the VaporMax, the designers really wanted to give athletes the impression of "running on air". They began by restructuring the Air unit in order to connect it directly to the upper. "It was the main challenge," said Tom Minami, senior shoe designer, but it was worth it. “Without a midsole or sockliner, you rediscover the sensations of Air cushioning. In previous Air Max models, the goal was to place as many Air units as possible in the sole, but the VaporMax is banking on more efficient use of technology. "When you put your foot down, each lug sinks into the Air unit, increasing the pressure," says Zachary Elder. “When you lift your foot, the pressure is released which creates even more dynamic cushioning. After working for seven years on this shoe, Zachary Elder and Tom Minami are eager to find out what the future holds. "I am super proud of the product," says Zachary Elder. “The new approach represents a real turning point for Nike Air technology and for Nike. "