Nike Air Max Portal

Air Max Portal

Nike’s Air Max series has a long history of striking designs, and in 2024, the brand chose to honour some of those from the Y2K era with a new women’s exclusive silhouette called the Air Max Portal.

The most standout feature of the Nike Air Max Portal is its bold, chunky sole unit. Blending a substantial slab of soft foam cushioning with a large visible Air Max bubble in the heel, its midsole elevates the wearer while also delivering stacks of comfort and an eye-catching look that evokes 2000s-era styles. Underneath, it is supported by a rubber outsole marked with dynamic tread patterns for solid durability and reliable traction. A textured shank energises the midfoot with its charismatic shape, and the rubber reaches up into the heel of the shoe’s bulbous midsole, where it displays capitalised Air text.

Inspired by archival Nike sneakers, the upper of the Air Max Portal is made from a plush, quilted material formed into smooth contours that flow elegantly along the flanks. A synthetic leather mudguard wraps around the entire outer before extending upwards at the heel to offer sleek protection. Another panel has been layered over the heel, its centre marked with a miniature Swoosh, and a convenient pull tab makes it easy to get the Portal on and off.

Diminutive logos have been embroidered into the forefoot and medial flank, while a slightly larger moulded Swoosh adorns the lateral side, and the plush tongue features a set of Air Swoosh branding. Alongside this classy retro styling, the Air Max Portal is a sustainably made shoe, with most models incorporating a minimum of 20% recycled materials, thus reflecting Nike’s move to reduce its environmental impact.

The Nike Air Max Portal offers superior comfort through its sturdy platform base and classic cushioning, while its heritage aesthetic and chic, minimalist upper ensure that it delivers style in abundance, making it an all-round outstanding lifestyle sneaker.