When Nike was producing the first batch of Air Max 1s in 1986, they realized that the Air bubble was prone to cracking due to its large size. This forced Nike to make a last-minute audible and shrink down the size of the Air unit, resulting in the classic Air Max 1 ’87 shape that we now all know and love.
While Nike tried to recall the bigger bubble version before it hit shelves in 1987, some pairs were still released to the public. Throughout the years, the lore around this “Big Bubble” version grew, making some fans hope that Nike would eventually bring it back. That’s precisely what Nike Sportswear did this past Air Max Day with the introduction of the Air Max 1 ’86.
After making its debut in the OG white/red colorway, the Air Max 1 ’86 is now dropping in another classic colorway: “Obsidian.” This OG colorway first hit shelves in 1988 and came dressed primarily in white mesh with Obsidian and grey overlays and red accents. This time around, since its releasing as Air Max 1 ’86, the shoe comes equipped with the “Big Bubble,” which features four circles in the Air window instead of the three circles that appears in the bubble of the Air Max 1 ’87.
Recently, some outlets have given this colorway a “USA” nickname, though it has been known as “Obsidian” for most of its history.
The Nike Air Max 1 ’86 “Obsidian” releases on Saturday, September 9th on SNKRS and at select retailers. Check out official images below.
Nike Air Max 1 ’86 “Obsidian”
Color: White/Obsidian-Light Neutral Grey
Style Code: DQ3989-101
Release Date: September 9, 2023
Price: $150 USD
