Nike Air Max Craze

Air Max Craze

In the 2020s, Nike revisited a number of its Y2K silhouettes, giving a new generation of sneaker fans an insight into the bold designs of that era. One of the most eccentric of these is the Air Max Craze, which was originally released in 2001 as part of the brand’s experimental Alpha Project.

The Nike Air Max Craze has a distinctive upper with an internal neoprene sockliner that fits snugly around the foot and an outer shroud fastened with a central zipper. Traditional laces sit behind this over a tongue made from mesh along its lower half and a smooth, synthetic leather at the top. A protective toe cap protects the forefoot, its surface etched with the words “Cross Training” in homage to the sporting purpose of the original silhouette.

Perhaps the most distinctive element of the Air Max Craze is its mule-style heel. This consists of a generously cushioned pad held in place by a TPU frame that extends down to the sole on each side before connecting beneath the midfoot. Here, the words “Nice Heel Fit” have been printed, indicating its comfort and quality. Pull tabs then emerge from the heel and tongue for easy on and off.

The sole unit of the Nike Air Max Craze is as eye-catching and innovative as its upper, featuring a chunky construction of soft EVA foam and supportive Air cushioning below the forefoot and heel. Its rolling shape rises gently through the midfoot, creating a large stack at the rear for supreme comfort. Meanwhile, the rubber outsole has its own compelling design comprising raised parallel strips interspersed with geometric grip pads that deliver comprehensive traction.

As well as its boundary pushing design, the Air Max Craze exhibits a standout look. This arises from its eccentric heel design and bulky sole, but also from the mesmerising graphics and stylish branding decorating its outer. Futuristic grid patterns and dashes adorn the flanks, while a lined effect marks the toe. Here, a Swoosh has been attached to the lateral forefoot, and behind this is a dynamic slash-like illustration. All of this infuses the Craze with an energetic feel which reflects its sporty design.

A bubble containing Max Air branding adorns the tongue, and the same text appears in a blocky pad on the heel of the midsole. Large see-through panels in the forefoot and heel give that classic Air Max look, and a small, crescent-shaped window adds another distinctive element to the back of the foot. Lastly, the shoe’s Alpha Project roots are honoured through a subtle five-dot logo located on the tongue pull, the outsole and the spotted insole.

With its long list of idiosyncratic and forward-thinking design elements, the Nike Air Max Craze makes an impressive fashion statement. Its sporty, retro style is backed up by comfort-focused features like the flexible neoprene sockliner and abundant Air Max cushioning, ensuring that this creative sneaker has both the look and feel for everyday casual wear.