Nike releases 3D printed Nike Air Max 1000 with Zellerfeld
Nike is getting back into the 3D printed footwear games (which it helped kick off almost a decade ago) with the launch of the Nike Air Max 1000, a revolutionary 3D printed sneaker created in collaboration with the 3D printed footwear experts at Zellerfeld Shoe Company Inc.
As shown in VoxelMatters’ recently released Consumer Products Additive Manufacturing Market report, the opportunity for AM adoption in footwear is now starting to take off, along with several other consumer product applications, resulting in over 37 million consumer products and parts 3D printed yearly in 2023. Footwear 3D printing is emerging as a huge opportunity for AM industry core operators in hardware, materials and services but also represents a strategic area for major companies and their suppliers to invest in.
Innovating in the Air Max tradition
This slip-on design reimagines the iconic Air Max 1, merging tradition with cutting-edge technology to pave the way for the future of footwear. By using 3D printing technology and sustainable materials, the Air Max 1000 is also intended to demonstrate Nike’s commitment to progress while challenging the boundaries of sneaker design and production.
The shoe debuted at ComplexCon 2024, held in Las Vegas, where Nike took center stage with an immersive and creative display. ComplexCon served as the ideal venue to showcase the Air Max 1000’s innovative design and technological advancements. Visitors explored its origins and development, learning about Nike’s history of excellence through innovations like Nike Air technology, first introduced by inventor Frank Rudy. Attendees also had the rare opportunity to win exclusive pairs of the Air Max 1000, a testament to the sneaker’s debut as a collector’s item.
Running with 3D printing and TPU
At the heart of the Air Max 1000 is its 3D printed design, developed using thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), a flexible and durable material that allows for intricate structures and lightweight construction. TPU makes the sneaker not only resilient but also eco-friendly by reducing material waste during production.
The new Nike shoe was 3D printed by filament material extrusion using the production platform developed by Zellerfeld. By integrating 3D printing into its production pipeline, Nike is setting a precedent for customization and efficiency in the footwear industry. The Nike Air Max 1000 is a symbol of how technology can redefine both functionality and sustainability, ensuring athletes and enthusiasts get the best of both worlds.
Stepping into 3D printed footwear mass adoption
With the Air Max 1000 Nike wants to make a cultural statement. During the ComplexCon event, the brand unveiled the Cactus Colosseum in collaboration with Travis Scott. This interactive space celebrated the launch of Scott’s Nike Zoom Field Jaxx, blending soccer, music, and streetwear into a single immersive experience. Collaborations with creatives like Lil Yachty, who introduced his Nike Us Force 1, and Kids of Immigrants, who presented the Air Max SNDR, further highlighted Nike’s dedication to fostering community and innovation.
The Air Max 1000 reflects this ethos, drawing inspiration from the past while leading the way into the future. With its exclusive release at ComplexCon and plans for broader availability on the horizon, the Air Max 1000 could help make the next big step into ushering 3D printed footwear into mainstream adoption.
