Air Max 90 vs Air Max 1 – Which Sneaker Fits Your Style

Two icons, both designed by Tinker Hatfield. One clean and classic, the other bold and outspoken. The Air Max 1 and Air Max 90 are both crowd favorites in the Netherlands, but they wear completely different. So how do you choose between these two legends?

Different start, different vibe

The Air Max 1 came first — in 1987. Back then, it made a statement: visible Air in the sole. Tinker drew inspiration from modern architecture and made the tech part of the design.

In 1990, he took it a step further. With the Air Max 90 — originally called the AM III — he proved the Air Max line wasn’t standing still. Bigger, bolder, and packed with more edge.

Shape = function = personality

The Air Max 1 is smooth and sleek. Rounded lines, clean silhouette, calm energy. Perfect if you like simplicity with class. The AM90? Layered, angular, and built to stand out. Every part of the shoe is made to get noticed.

More into clean fits? The 1 feels like the natural choice. Prefer bold looks with more volume and presence? The 90 might be your go-to.

The sole makes the difference

Both models feature visible Air, but the 90 packs a bigger unit and a chunkier sole. You feel that right away. The Air Max 1 walks lighter, more natural. The 90 gives you extra bounce and a firmer heel feel.

Comfort? Both deliver. It really depends on how you like your stride.

Materials set the mood

Mesh for breathability. Suede for a luxe touch. Leather for that retro OG vibe. Both the Air Max 1 and 90 come in endless variations, so your choice really comes down to the look you’re chasing.

→ Check our sneaker care to keep both pairs in top shape

Drop frequency: one’s rarer than the other

The Air Max 1 drops less frequently than the 90. Releases are often limited, which drives demand and resale prices up. The Air Max 90 is more widely available and usually easier on the wallet.

Want something rare, OG, and harder to find? Go with the 1. Want a pair you can wear often without the stress? The 90’s your pick.

It’s personal — both are legendary

The Air Max 1 is the foundation. The blueprint. The AM90 is its louder brother. More volume, more visibility. Neither is better — it’s all about your style. And let’s be real: every sneaker rotation deserves both.