As a maker of some of the most relevant lifestyle sneakers, Nike has continuously reflected on global cultural movements throughout history to conjure design inspiration. This especially holds true for an upcoming Air Max 90, which pays tribute to the pirate radio scene that thrived in the United Kingdom in the 1960s.
This isn’t the first time the Swoosh is honoring the radio medium. Back in 2006, Nike collaborated with British artist Ben Drury for an Air Max 1 that featured the text “Hold Tight” embroidered on the tongue—a reference to renegade movement. Similar emblems are found on the Air Max 90 more than a decade later; radio waves found on the heel in place of the classic branding, while the famous skull broadcasting imagery is printed beneath the shoe’s translucent icy outsole. Even the tri-color arrangement of the model honors pirate radio’s English roots, as the pair is clad in a Union Jack-inspired red, navy, and silver.
The Air Max 90 will hit the shelves at the retailers listed below in 2021. Looking for more Air Maxes? Get a closer look at the upcoming Undefeated Air Max 97.
UPDATE 2/8/2021:
Detailed images courtesy of END Clothing have been added. A release in the EU is slated for Feb. 13th.
