Nike Sportswear is bringing together a new generation of designers from around the world to help shape the future of Air Max through the inaugural Air Works Research, Development, and Design program.

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Participating designers gathered at Nike’s Philip H. Knight Campus in Beaverton, Oregon, working alongside Nike mentors on new cultural interpretations of Air Max that build on the brand’s nearly 40-year history of Air innovation.

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“Air Works is about celebrating the cultural impact of Air Max and inviting a core group of global creatives to imagine what its future could look like,” says Andy Caine, VP, Creative Director, Nike Sportswear.

“It’s also a chance to deliver a deep dive in Air Max history, innovation and inspiration, and to unite outside perspectives with Nike-only tools, talent and capabilities to redefine what Air Max means to this generation.”

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The inaugural Air Works Program took place from May 11 to 14, bringing designers from Beijing, London, Los Angeles, Mumbai, New York, Paris, Shanghai, and Tokyo to Nike headquarters.

Working alongside Nike designers and engineers, the participants developed distinctive 3D-printed Air Max styles created in collaboration with Zellerfeld.

The designs are intended to reflect each designer’s individual style while also celebrating their communities from different parts of the world.

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The work was shaped by direct exchange with Nike teams and external partners, as well as insights into key Nike spaces such as the Air Manufacturing Innovation Facility, the Department of Nike Archives, the Nike Sport Research Lab, Blue Ribbon Studio, and the Bowerman Footwear Lab.

Following the Air Works Program, each local designer will introduce a limited Friends & Family version of their shoe within their own community over the coming year. The program will culminate on Air Max Day 2027, when the resulting projects will be celebrated as part of the wider Air Max story.

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For a deeper look at the history of Air Max, our Nike Air Max History offers a comprehensive overview of its evolution, key models, and defining innovations.

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Photos via Nike