Tinker Hatfield: The Air Max Story

Have a look at this awesome little film in which Nike’s legendary shoe innovator (and Head Chef at the brand’s enigmatic Innovation Kitchen) Tinker Hatfield discusses the creative process behind the design of the running shoe that changed the way the world looked at athletic footwear: the 1987 Air Max 1.

From Nike Sportswear:

A star of Bill Bowerman’s legendary University of Oregon track program, Tinker Hatfield began his career at Nike as a corporate architect in 1981. Four years later, he landed a job as a shoe designer by winning a 24-hour design contest, a position that he was “Chomping at the bit to get into.” In 1987, Tinker famously exposed Air in his Air Max 1 design — an integral part of Nike’s “Revolutionary” Air Pack. The mastermind behind many of Nike’s most iconic products including Air Trainer, Air Safari, Huarache, Agassi footwear, and Air Jordan (III-XV, XX, XIIV, XV), Tinker’s creations are instantly recognizable for their unique ability to combine innovation with storytelling.

This guy designed a slew of my favourite sneakers, including the Air Max 1 and Air Jordan III. Peep the film and revel.

Also, have a look at this neat little video that takes you through the evolution and journey of the Air Max series, from 87’s OG Air Max 1, to 09’s revamped, teched-out Air Maxim 1.

Nike Sportswear killing it at the moment!

~ by pr3mise on August 13, 2009.