Nike Air Max Phenomena

Air Max Phenomena

Although Nike is primarily a sportswear company, there have been times throughout its history when the brand has experimented with more formal footwear. Notable examples include the Vagabond and the Bedouin, which both date back to the 1980s, but few have been released since. In 2025, Nike broke this trend with the Air Max Phenomena – an appealing new take on the hybrid loafer-style sneaker.

The sleek upper of the Nike Air Max Phenomena is based on that of a traditional penny loafer. Made of luxurious tumbled leather, it features a midfoot strap and a looping pull tab at the heel that enhances its convenient slip-on design. A cushy pillow pads out the heel, offering soft support to the rear of the foot, while a large synthetic mudguard encircles the lower upper, its reflective coating improving visibility in low light.

The sole unit of the Air Max Phenomena is taken directly from the heritage Air Max SNDR, which was resurrected from Nike’s archives in 2024. As a result, it provides tried-and-tested support, with visible Air delivering comfortable cushioning to both the forefoot and heel, and a complex tread pattern of angular grip pads producing outstanding traction. Lastly, the outsole rubber extends up over the front of the foot, where it acts as a sturdy toe guard.

The Nike Air Max Phenomena exudes sophistication and style while also giving off strong functional vibes through its impressive sole, which honours the long history and technological prowess of the Air Max line. Crafted in conjunction with the Serena Williams Design Collective, its progressive aesthetic blends striking elements and subtle details. An elegant metallic Swoosh has been attached to the midfoot strap, with another stamped into the leather of the medial heel at a gap in the striking, wavy edged mudguard. A 305 badge on the heel pull honours Serena Williams’ deep connection to the city of Miami, as does the smoky graphic rippling across the insole. Here, the record-breaking tennis star’s signature has also been printed, while her delicate logo appears on the left shoe and 305 on the right.

Ahead of its summertime release, atmos founder Hirofumi Kojima shared a sneak peak of the debut all-black Air Max Phenomena on social media. Within a few days, the chic Pearl Pink colourway had been announced, its graceful rose upper contrasting a glossy purple mudguard and rich black piping for an altogether standout look.

The Nike Air Max Phenomena represents the brand’s continued drive for innovation, building on the mid-2020s trend for sneaker-loafer hybrids and taking it to greater levels of comfort and support through the introduction of a classic Air Max sole. By working with the Serena Williams Design Crew, Nike has ensured that the Phenomena is functional and forward-thinking in its design yet refined and visionary in its style, with the charisma to handle any occasion.