The Best Air Max 1 Deals on StockX

Today, we know the Air Max 1 as a quintessential streetwear sneaker, the first to feature Nike’s “Big Bubble” technology that would change the industry forever and one of the most recognisable sneaker silhouettes of all time. The Air Max 1 silhouette is like showing a kid an outline of Mickey Mouse — instantly recognisable even if you aren’t a close fan. Three decades later, the sneaker is still one of the most popular designs in Nike’s growing catalog and remains a timeless piece of sneaker culture that will likely never subside. 

To celebrate the monumental influence of the Nike Air Max 1, we’ll explore the best Air Max 1 deals available now on StockX, where you can find a variety of styles and colourways for under retail. But before we get into the specifics, let’s brush up on some history to get us ready. 

Source: Nike

What Year Did the Air Max 1 Come Out? 

Technological advancements and groundbreaking feats of engineering are usually ripe with repeated failures and a myriad of production issues. Nike’s story — especially in the beginning — was no different. Released in 1987, the Nike Air Max 1’s origin story can be traced back to the late 70s when the Nike Air Tailwind was the first sneaker to feature Air technology. 

However, the Tailwind was struck with a plethora of issues, including high production costs and degradation of the sole over time. But these failures didn’t deter Nike, and nearly 10 years later the Nike Air Max 1 was released as a spiritual successor to the Tailwind. Constructed with a blend of mesh and suede and the iconic air bubble in the midsole, the Nike Air Max 1 was a revolutionary sneaker, despite how cliche that may sound today. 

No other performance runner, let alone sneaker, looked anything like the classic red and white colour blocking of that first Air Max 1. It was a seminal moment for Nike, but an even grander moment for runners. Later, the same would be true for the shoe’s impact on sneaker culture. 

Source: Nike

Why is the Air Max 1 so expensive?

Contrary to popular opinion, most Nike Air Max 1 models are relatively affordable. However, collaborations, limited edition releases, premium materials, and resale value have contributed to higher prices on some models. Air Max 1 retail prices are usually between £120 and £170, however, you can cop a wide variety of styles on StockX for under £100. 

Source: Nike

Are Air Max 1s good for running?

The Air Max 1 is more than a capable gym, walking, or light running shoe. However, Nike’s continuous evolution in shoe technology, which has given us performance models like the Nike Vaporfly, doesn’t compare. If you’re training for your next marathon, you’re better off hitting the pavement in newer, more dedicated performance running shoes from Nike. 

If you want a daily gym shoe and want to run a few miles on the treadmill or around your neighbourhood, the Air Max 1 is a great option. If you’re looking to break your personal best it may be better to focus your search on Nike’s modern advances in performance running.

The Best Nike Air Max 1 Deals Available now on StockX

History aside, the Air Max 1 is paving its path in sneaker and street culture, no longer symbolising shoe technology and engineering limitations, and finding a home in nearly every wardrobe over 30 years later. If you’re looking to build your collection or cop your first pair of Air Max 1s, here are the best colourways available on StockX for below retail. 

Nike Air Max 1 (‘86 OG Big Bubble Air Max Day 2024)

To celebrate Air Max Day 2024, Nike released the Air Max 1 ‘86 Big Bubble in the sail, royal blue, and volt colourway. This shoe is all about paying homage to history, from the iconic colours you’d see straight out of an 80s magazine, to the “Big Bubble” nod from some of the earliest marketing language back in 1986. 

The sneaker features a lighter blue on the mudguard, swoosh, and Nike logo, complimented by “sail” off-white accents and finished by the vibrant “volt” highlighter yellow midsole. It’s a bold release from Nike that perfectly encapsulates the feeling and history of such an iconic show. 

If you’re a completionist, this is one you don’t want to miss. Despite being an Air Max Day release in 2024, you can cop for right under retail. 

Nike Air Max 1 (Crepe Brown)

Part of a 2004 three-pack re-release, the Nike Air Max 1 Crepe Brown (also known as the “Crepe Hemp”) was created by legendary Nike designer Tinker Hatfield. Paying homage to history is nothing new for Nike and the 2022 re-release of the Nike Air Max 1 Crepe Brown was one of the best drops of the year. 

The sneakers feature a beautiful colour combination of brown, mint, beige, and gum rubber — the perfect complimentary sneaker for those whose wardrobe centres around Earth tones and a more uniform arrangement. Releases at a retail price of £140, you can currently cop the Air Max 1 Crepe Brown for £102, making it one of the best deals on this list. 

Nike Air Max 1 (Athletic Department Deep Royal Blue) 

Arguably, Nike has always nailed colourways better than any other brand in the culture. The Air Max 1 Athletic Department Deep Royal Blue is no different, featuring a deep royal blue colour similar to collegiate colours you’d see in the States. 

The sneaker features royal blue accents on the Swoosh and mudguard, perfectly complemented by the off-white midsole, beige upper, and “fir” green accents throughout. While there is more going on here than other styles featured on this list, the colours are muted enough to fit perfectly as an accent piece, or everyday staple in your rotation. 

The Nike Air Max 1 Athletic Department Deep Royal Blue was released in September 2023 for a retail price of £120. You can cop now on StockX for under £71, making this sneaker one of the best value for money on this entire list. 

Nike Air Max 1 (White Mica Green)

With quiet luxury, monochromatic color palettes, and the embrace of uniformity in fashion, it’s no surprise colourways like the Nike Air Max 1 Mica Green continues to strike a chord in current culture. The sneakers feature subtle colour blocking of greys, whites, and a touch of Mica Green, which teeters towards grey versus traditional green on the colour wheel. The combination creates a sneaker that is understated, minimal, yet fashion-forward. 

If you’re looking for an everyday sneaker that you can dress up or down, the White Mica Green is a great choice for the upcoming summer season. The Air Max 1 White Mica Freen was released for a retail price of £120 but is currently available for £87. Don’t sleep. 

Nike Air Max 1 (White Black Medium Olive)

Continuing with the uniformity theme, we have the Nike Air Max 1 White Black Medium Olive, similar to the White Mica Green but with more visual flare. The sneaker features bolder colours than its counterparts while maintaining a minimal colour spread. Outfitted with a black Swoosh, grey and olive green accents throughout, and white mesh, soles, and laces, this men’s Nike Air Max 1 is the perfect option for those looking to add an accented color that doesn’t scream at you. The olive green is the right amount of accent that doesn’t take away too much from the other muted colours on the sneaker. 

The result is yet another great everyday sneaker that will get plenty of wear in your rotation, all year long. The best part? You can cop the Air Max 1 White Black Medium Olive for £75 on StockX, saving you nearly £50 from the retail price. 

Do you want to discover even more styles under retail? Then have a look at the other Air Max 1 deals on StockX that our in-house experts have selected for you.