Nike Revives Air Metal Max for First Release in Two Decades

Nike‘s ’90s training footwear was big, bold and bulky to a fault, and few silhouettes encapsulated that expansive ethos better than the Air Metal Max, a classic style from 1997 that’s now returned in a crisp “Neptune Green” colorway. This marks the first time Nike Sportswear has pulled the Metal Max out of the archives in almost two decades — the last time it hit shelves was in the mid ’00s.

Swathed entirely in “Neptune Green” and embellished with airy white trim plus wavy panels and accents, the Metal Max’s upper is heavily layered and intricately detailed. Plastic-rimmed, crescent moon-shaped slits rise from forefoot to collar, using reflective mesh to enhance visibility and breathability alike. Jeweled Swoosh badges are present on the lateral and medial side, with an Air Max 95-style oval embellishment gracing the tongue in rubberized fashion. Heel tabs and toeboxes get in on the branded fun too, with Nike spellouts sitting above more reflective mesh on the former and small embroidered Swooshes on the latter.

Down below, the white EVA foam midsole uses a full-foot Air Max setup for versatile cushioning and support. Much like other legendary Nike cross trainers, this hybrid ethos made the Metal Max an apt choice for everything from running to tennis and football. White rubber outsoles with final dashes of branding complete the look.

A product of a truly memorable year for Nike’s running/training performance products that also included the Air Max 97, Zoom Spiridon, and Zoom Talaria, the Metal Max “Neptune Green” is available at the Nike webstore now, and retails for $140 USD.

The Metal Max isn’t all the Swoosh has on the way this week, so peep our Best Footwear Drops list to see what else is releasing.