Another USA-Inspired Concept? The Air Max 90 USA Alternate

 Since Nike is based in the US, we’ve frequently seen 4th of July and other patriotic-inspired colorways flood the market throughout the years. This time, it appears that concept artists are either taking inspiration from those sneakers or perhaps celebrating a late 4th of July or an early Veteran’s Day! Either way, there’s no denying that this colorway is highly reminiscent of the Nike Air Max 90 USA (2020). Presenting, the Nike Air Max 90 USA Alternate, a very similar colorway that wears red, white, and blue hues which are synonymous with the American flag. 

The Air Max 90 was the worthy successor of the Air Max 1 and was released in the classic Infrared colorway that’s still revered by sneakerheads and collectors alike. Recently to celebrate the Air Max’s 30th year anniversary, the Swoosh released a special pack with 3 new colorways that were all inspired by the OGs from the ‘90s. With re-releases of timeless classics and collaborations such as the recent one with CLOT, the Air Max 1 and 90 lineups continue to be popular choices for anyone looking for sneakers to run in or to style casually. This ultimately also inspires more concepts such as this Air Max 90 Alternate. 

This colorway features a seemingly American flag-inspired upper with clean white, blazing red, and deep blue color tones. Red leather appears on the toes and branches out onto the side panels. Meanwhile, this is contrasted by the white leather mudguards that are only disturbed by the tiny “Air Max” tag embossed near the rears with a contrasting bright red background. Toe boxes feature a clean white mesh material that complements the similarly constructed collars of the sneaker. Right above the toe boxes, deep blue lower eye stays add contrast and get tucked under the sneaker’s customary plastic eyelet panels that also indulge in the rich blue hue. 

Throats are barely visible with hints of red that permeate through while being predominantly covered by dark blue laces. This leads up to a pair of bright red tongues with deep blue tags and white “Nike Air” branding. Purple sock liners and interiors complement the lateral cropped side Swooshes and although the heel tabs aren’t clearly visible, we can still spot hints of a deep blue hue. Perhaps this is contrasted by red or white Air Max branding. Blue midsoles with a white block surrounding the Air Units and red/white outsoles finish off the design. If you’re digging this concept, luckily the Air Max 90 USA (2020) is close to identical and available for close to retail prices. For more concepts, stay tuned!