Nike Air Max Plus 7

Air Max Plus 7

When it was launched in 1998, the Air Max Plus was a bold step forwards for Nike’s visible cushioning technology. Its success led to a whole line of Plus sneakers, including 2005’s Air Max Plus 7, which was celebrated 20 years later with a stunning retro release.

A breathable mesh textile forms the upper of the Nike Air Max Plus 7, with liquid-like rubberised nodules covering its surface to bring structure and durability. The toe is protected by a plastic panel, and a leather mudguard held firm with double lines of stitching encircles the rest of the shoe, curving dramatically upwards at the heel to form a supportive spine for the Achilles. Combined with the strong lacing structure and stretchy tongue strap, this provides excellent containment for the foot, as textile lace loops are joined by reinforced eyelets on either side of the collar, thus completing the sturdy outer.

The sole unit of the Air Max Plus 7 features visible Tuned Air units in both forefoot and heel, with multiple windows showing off the bouncy, comfort-giving cushioning inside. A stabilising shank begins at the midfoot and swoops upwards over the heel of the upper to offer additional support at the back of the foot. The outsole, meanwhile, incorporates rounded lugs across the forefoot and around its perimeter, with larger crash pads beneath the heel for comprehensive traction.

The Nike Air Max Plus 7 evokes a dynamic feeling of motion with its distinctive water-droplet globules, which appear to drip from the forefoot round to the heel as if pulled by rapid movement. This eye-catching theme continues across the sneaker, from the tongue to the insole and even the shank, whose energetic curves also feature rounded embossed nodes. Tn Air logos adorn the heel, tongue, insole and outsole, and Air lettering can be seen through the laces on the tongue strap. Small Swooshes accent the flanks, with an even more diminutive logo decorating the heel overlay for a classy look.

Unique visual touches come together with durable design elements and the classic cushioning of the bold Air Max sole to make the Nike Air Max Plus 7 a standout silhouette that delivers not only on comfort and support but also on flair and style.