crooked tongues magazine News Features

We don't get particularly excited about Nike Air Max 1s any more, and this "Omega" variation is some more acceptable blowback from last year's Rivals collection. Is there any more to say about the first Air Max? Weird that a shoe so powerful and revolutionary on its debut could become so ubiquitous, but it's pretty understandable. Light and comfortable enough to defy any attempts at an official update, it's still seemingly altered in one way or another year-after-year like some aged playboy racking up the facelifts. Still, we think the essence is there, even if a side-by-side comparison with the 23 year old source material is like a remedial class spot-the-difference.

Check nylon mesh, matching grey synthetic suede, blue and a blast of lime feels like the byproduct of every AM1 from the last few years. It's okay, but we know, courtesy of Patta, that the Air Max can still be rendered essential with the right level of knowledge and restraint. we see the Omega Athletics West references, but truth be told, we're still holding out for a Vintage Omega Flame reissue. That still seems like a no-show, but if the focus on the old styles has got you running for the wingtips, and you think they're still a little bland on the run, we guarantee that the progressive brilliance Nike Running has in the pipeline from winter well into 2011 will restore that chipped and tattered faith in sports footwear. In the meantime, these, and their moodier-looking theme pack sibling are available to pre-order from the Crooked Tongues store now...

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