The Matte Black finish is all the rage in 2021 and it’s a shame that Nike hasn’t implemented it more in their latest sneakers. Thankfully to fill in this gap, we have concept artists that aren’t afraid to let their imaginations run wild and create memorable pieces. Although this colorway is relatively plain, we believe that it’s done just right! Presenting, the ice-cold Nike Air Max 90 Midnight Arctic! A concept colorway that’s been done up before on the recent Air Force 1 Low Dark Tropical twist, but we believe that the AM90 pulls it off better just by a hair.
The Air Max 90, when released 3 decades ago, was a revolutionary sneaker not just because of the Air Unit, but also because it transcended sports. When designed by Architect-turned-designed Tinker Hatfield, the Air Max 90 was meant for the U.S markets but found success internationally. Allowing the Swoosh to spread its branches all over the world, particularly in Europe. The Air Max 90 also became a fan-favorite in Russia, a region we see many concept artists rise from. Some argue, that this silhouette is Nike’s celebration of dominating the runners’ game with the AM1, and today, it’s seen as so much more than just athletic footwear.
The Air Max 90 Midnight Arctic features a matte black design that’s shrouded in darkness with barely anything that contrasts it, not even the branding on the tongues. Mudguards feature smooth black leather with seemingly mesh toe boxes right above. Plastic eye stay panels are passed through by traditional thin black laces that wrap the shoe’s matching black throats. Leading up, the pair also dons black tongue tags with matching black “Nike” branding that’s barely visible. A color choice that we’ve seen various times in previous concepts as well. Overall, these sneakers are reminiscent of the UNDEFEATED x Nike Air Max 90 Black Blue Fury.
While the color tones are almost identical, color blocking does diverge. Firstly, the UNDEFEATED sneakers include contrasting teal “Nike” branding, mudguard outlines, and hits on the midsoles while also featuring black Swooshes. This concept dons a vibrant arctic blue cropped side Swoosh with black interiors and likely even black heel tabs that blend right in and add to the ultra-dark vibe. Jet black midsoles with Air Units that blend right in and Arctic blue outsoles finish off the design. Stick around as we’re all set to drop new concept art very soon!
