Mumbai/Beaverton, May 13: Nike has announced the launch of its inaugural “Air Works” research, development and design program, bringing together emerging designers from eight global cities to co-create the future of Air Max through innovation, culture, and technology-led footwear design.
The first edition of the Air Works program, being held from May 11 to May 14 at Nike’s Philip H. Knight Campus in Beaverton, Oregon, has brought together designers from Beijing, London, Los Angeles, Mumbai, New York, Paris, Shanghai, and Tokyo for an immersive collaborative experience focused on the evolution of Air Max.
As part of the initiative, participating designers will work alongside Nike mentors, designers, and engineers to develop original 3D-printed Air Max concepts in partnership with Zellerfeld. The designs are intended to reflect the individuality of each creator while celebrating the cultural identity of their local communities.
According to Nike Sportswear, the initiative is designed to build on the brand’s four-decade legacy of Air innovation while opening new pathways for future-focused footwear design.
Commenting on the initiative, Andy Caine, Vice President and Creative Director, Nike Sportswear, said:
“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. 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.”
During the program, designers are also gaining access to several of Nike’s innovation and research facilities, including the Air Manufacturing Innovation facility, the Department of Nike Archives, the Nike Sport Research Lab, Blue Ribbon Studio, and the Bowerman Footwear Lab.
The initiative reflects Nike’s continued investment in blending sport, culture, technology, and design innovation, while also exploring the possibilities of advanced manufacturing and 3D-printed footwear.
Following the completion of the inaugural Air Works program, each participating designer will release a limited-run friends-and-family edition of their Air Max creation within their local community over the coming year, leading up to Air Max Day 2027.
Nike said the program is intended to ensure that the future of Nike Air continues to be shaped by the communities and cultures that have contributed to the legacy of Air Max globally.