Nike is back at it with 3D printing. Following the 2024 launch, the company presents the Air Max 1000.2, an update developed in collaboration with Zellerfeld. They maintain the silhouette of the 1987 Air Max 1, with its wavy pattern and laceless construction. The model, in black, will be available from May 7th on the Snkrs app, with an early access raffle on the 4th.
Additive manufacturing with Zellerfeld: from idea to foot in a single piece 🖨️
The collaboration with Zellerfeld allows Nike to produce the sneaker as a single 3D-printed piece, eliminating traditional seams and assemblies. The material used is a thermoplastic elastomer that offers flexibility and durability. The sole maintains the visible air capsule, now integrated into the printing process. The laceless fit is achieved through an elastic structure that adapts to the foot. The price of $179 reflects the applied technology and on-demand production.
Laceless, but with a raffle: the new way to sweat for buying sneakers 😅
Nike has achieved what seemed impossible: making paying $179 for laceless sneakers a privilege. If you don't get the early access on May 4th, you'll have to wait until the 7th and pray that the Snkrs app algorithm doesn't consider you a robot. At least, if you don't get them, you can always console yourself by thinking you're saving yourself the ritual of tying your laces. The real innovation is that now the raffle is almost as fast as 3D printing.