Hirofumi Kojima on the atmos-Exclusive Nike Air Max 95 “Harajuku”
Reworking the classic Air Max 95 “Neon.”
Update: For atmos and Nike, 2025 is a special year. The Japanese chain of sneaker boutiques began 25 years ago in Harajuku, while the Swoosh is celebrating 30 years of the Air Max 95. A fusion of these two anniversaries has resulted in the atmos-exclusive Nike Air Max 95 “Harajuku.”
We previewed the sneaker below last week, noting that it draws inspiration from the iconic “Neon” colorway while incorporating details like metallic silver embroidery and local iconography. Since then, we connected with atmos creative director Hirofumi “Koji” Kojima to discuss the special pair. For those looking to pick up a pair, it will drop exclusively via atmos and Nike SNKRS in Asia on November 1.
What is your earliest Air Max 95 memory?
The Air Max 95 OG “Neon” is the sneaker that made me want to pursue this industry. When it first released, I desperately wanted it — this is the pair that got me hooked on sneakers. If I hadn’t encountered the Air Max 95, I wouldn’t be where I am today. That’s how important a model it is for me.
The distinct style of Ura-Harajuku played a key role in the design of this pair. How have you seen the district evolve and influence style over the years?
I’ve been coming to this town since I was in high school, so I’ve been here for nearly 30 years. Ura-Harajuku is a neighborhood where diverse cultures blend, and it continues to change and evolve today. This Air Max 95 also combines various historic elements to achieve its final form.
What is your favorite detail of this “Harajuku” Air Max 95?
The hidden Harajuku logo on the inside. Special details that aren’t visible from the outside are what I enjoy. Another key point is the design inspired by sketches from Sergio Lozano, the designer of the Air Max 95.
You have a long-standing relationship with Nike. What do you think keeps your connection with Nike so strong after all this time?
The relationship between Nike and atmos has lasted for 25 years, and together we’ve significantly grown Japan’s sneaker culture. The sneaker market has had its ups and downs, but we’ve consistently conveyed Nike’s appeal to our customers. To put it simply, it’s been a good friendship, and it will continue.
What is a dream collaborator of yours that you haven’t already worked with?
I’d love to collaborate with sneaker boutiques, including the world’s top competitors, to create projects that elevate the sneaker scene for the community.
What is the ultimate Air Max 95 grail?
That’s a tricky question for me. I’d love to say the atmos x Air Max 95 “Animal,” but the answer to the first question is the Air Max 95 “Neon.” If I hadn’t encountered the Air Max 95 “Neon,” I don’t think I’d be doing this job.
What Air Max 95 colorway would you like to see Nike bring back?
The all-black leather version of the Air Total Max SC. I’m thrilled that a reissue is happening this year. Of course, the OG colors are cool, but for my current style, the premium leather all black is what I’m feeling.
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Original Story: atmos and Nike have once again collaborated, drawing inspiration from sneaker history and Tokyo street culture, to create the Air Max 95 “Harajuku.”
As the title of this silhouette, Harajuku, the cultural epicenter of Japanese fashion and the birthplace of Atmos in 2000, plays a defining role in this collaboration. The new Air Max 95 “Harajuku” reflects this connection with an “HRJK” embroidery on the interior. The silhouette also reimagines the iconic “Neon” Air Max 95 colorway, shifting the original grey upper to a sleek black upper with the signature neon green accents. A special detail includes 3M side panels, allowing the sneaker to glow in the dark.
Currently, the atmos x Nike Air Max 95 Big Bubble “Harajuku” is expected to launch exclusively in Japan, with no global release announced or confirmed yet. Stay tuned for further updates.
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