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Nike elevates its iconic ’90s sneaker with a unique new finish

Gear Patrol · Jul 09, 2026 16:32 · 2 min read

Close-up of black textured leather sneaker with stitched detailing and embossed Nike logo on a blue background.

The archival-yet-contemporary Air Max 90 silhouette looks all dressed up in a luxurious new material treatment that doesn't break the bank.

The archival-yet-contemporary Air Max 90 silhouette looks all dressed up in a luxurious new material treatment that doesn’t break the bank.

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When people saw the original Air Max 90 in 1990, it was “the shoe that looked fast“, thanks to its groundbreaking, visible Air unit and bright, racing red colorway.

The latest version of that iconic model, dressed in a black crocodile print, may very well be known as “the shoe that looked luxurious” without breaking the bank.

Pair of black Nike Air Max sneakers with textured leather and visible air cushion soles. — The Air max 90 gets an exotic material upgrade, swapping mesh for leather and adding in a texture croc detail.

The Air Max 90 “Black Croc” maintains its well-known profile, while adding in luxe materials that lend it a premium personality.

The upper has been re-done in black leather, with a trending crocodile pattern appearing on the lower mudguards and midfoot panels, even where mesh traditionally appears. Ribbed leather replaces rubber panels on the TPU eyelets and grey heel tabs.

That subtle, metallic grey hue is continued in the Swoosh and the high-shine Nike tongue patch.

The elegant Nike Air Max 90 in Black/Anthracite/Metallic Dark Grey is available now, retailing for $145.

Nike’s use of the trending croc animal print lends the Air Max 90 a contemporary, luxurious edge.

Black Nike Air Max sneaker with textured leather and visible air cushioning in the sole. — Trademark, visible Nike Air cushioning technology absorbs impact on every step.

Close-up of black textured leather sneaker heel with visible air cushioning and stitched detailing. — 2027 marks the 40th anniversary of the Air Max franchise, which began with the Air Max 1 as the first sneaker to include a visible Air unit.

The grey leather heel highlights the Swoosh and gives the shoe slight contrast.

Pair of black Nike Air sneakers with textured leather and black laces viewed from above. — The textured, layered upper dressed in black offers depth without being distracting.

Nike Air Max 90 Black Croc

$145 at Nike

About the Author: Hayley Helms is an associate editor at Gear Patrol specializing in outdoor gear. Once upon a time, she wrote for Men’s Journal, Gearjunkie and Shape. Whether it’s testing a new rain shell or putting a pair of hiking boots through its paces, she leaves no stone unturned (however, she always Leaves No Trace).

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