Amanda Knapp
The Nike Air Max 90 is a popular shoe, but it was never intended to be used as a basketball sneaker. However, Atlanta Hawks small forward Thabo Sefolosha wore the Air Max 90 during the 2016-17 NBA season, and for the two seasons prior, after suffering a broken leg. The Air Max 90 was originally designed as a running shoe, with breathable mesh and a sleek, light upper. While the Air Max 90 is not recommended for basketball, Nike still dominates the basketball shoe market, with nine out of the top ten basketball sneakers in the NBA.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Designer | Tinker Hatfield |
| Purpose | Running shoe |
| Players who wore it | Thabo Sefolosha |
| Year worn | 2016-17 season |
| Shoe height | Tall |
| Fit | True to size |
| Width | Medium |
| Comfort | Good |
| Weight | 13.40 oz/380g |
| Ankle support | Good |
| Durability | Good |
| Style | Old |
| Recommended for basketball | No |
Explore related products
What You'll Learn
Thabo Sefolosha wore Air Max 90s during the 2016-17 NBA season
Sefolosha's adoption of the Air Max 90 as his basketball shoe of choice is notable because it was not designed for that purpose. Hatfield's design goal was to showcase the thickness of Nike's Air unit, while also ensuring the shoe remained sleek, light, and breathable for athletes. The Air Max line was originally meant to enhance the performance of runners, reflecting Hatfield's own background in track and field.
During the 2016-17 season, Sefolosha stood out as the only player in the League wearing a running shoe. His unique choice of footwear sparked interest, and some speculated that he might be using custom soles or traction patterns to suit the demands of playing basketball on hardwood courts. However, upon closer inspection, it appeared that Sefolosha was indeed using the standard Air Max 90s without any modifications. This led to the theory that he might be using custom orthotics with zoom air technology to enhance his comfort and performance on the court.
Thabo Sefolosha's decision to wear Air Max 90s during the 2016-17 NBA season showcases how athletes can sometimes find unconventional solutions that work best for them. By choosing a running shoe, Sefolosha went against the norm and created his own path to comfort and recovery from injury. His story serves as a reminder that sometimes, thinking outside the box can lead to innovative and successful outcomes.
Best Places to Buy Used Basketball Shoes in Tampa
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Air Max 90s are not recommended for basketball
While Nike Air Max 90s are worn by some NBA players, they are not recommended for basketball. The Air Max line was originally designed to help runners reach their ultimate potential, with a focus on comfort and stability rather than the quick lateral movements required in basketball. The shoe has a rounded, non-aggressively tapered toebox, which provides ample vertical space and a comfortable fit. The heel is also higher than the toe area, which can impact stability when making quick directional changes. While the Air Max 90 does provide some advantages in terms of cushioning and comfort, it is not designed specifically for the demands of basketball.
The effectiveness of the cushioning provided by the translucent pressurized gas pouches in the midsoles has been questioned, with some suggesting that traditional foam soles may be more effective. Additionally, the shoe's mesh material has small openings that may not provide adequate ventilation during intense basketball games. While the Air Max 90 may be a suitable option for casual street court basketball, it is not the best choice for competitive or professional-level play.
When it comes to basketball shoes, it is important to consider factors such as durability, toughness, and court feel. The Nike Air Force 1, for example, has been a popular choice among NBA players since 1982 due to its excellent durability and comfort. The shoe provides a high-top version that helps avoid ankle injuries and a low-top version that can be comfortably worn during the day. Other recommended options for basketball shoes include the PG 5 and the Cosmic Unity models, which offer better performance and are specifically designed for the sport.
Ultimately, while the Nike Air Max 90 may be worn by some NBA players, it is not the ideal choice for basketball. The shoe's design prioritizes comfort and stability for running, which may not translate well to the quick movements and directional changes required in basketball. For those looking for a dedicated basketball shoe, it is recommended to consider other options that are specifically designed for the sport and provide the necessary durability, traction, and court feel.
SEC Basketball: How Does It Compare to Rivals?
You may want to see also
Explore related products
The Air Force 1 is the NBA's signature basketball shoe
The Air Force 1 has been the signature basketball shoe of the NBA since 1982. Its designer, Bruce Kilgore, ensured that the shoe was the first model of basketball shoe to come with Nike Air sole technology. The shoe was designed with high-top, mid, and low editions, some of which are a great fit for the basketball court. The Air Force 1 is highly durable, tough, and well-built, making it an excellent shoe for playing basketball. The low-top basketball shoe is comfortable enough to be worn during the day, while the high-top version provides plush cushioning, helps prevent ankle injuries, and facilitates an effortless playing experience.
While the Air Max 90 was never intended to be used as a basketball sneaker, Atlanta Hawks small forward Thabo Sefolosha wore the Air Max 90 during the 2016-2017 NBA season and is currently the only player in the league to play in a running shoe. The Air Max 90 is not recommended for basketball use, as there are newer Air Max models and other basketball shoes that offer better performance.
The Air Max 90 is a former running shoe from the 90s that provides adequate vertical space and features a padded structure that hugs the feet comfortably. The big midsole, Air technology, and massive rubber walls make the shoe very stable. The heel counter is not too stiff, and the shoe has a slightly rounded, non-aggressively tapered toebox. The Air Max 90 is true to size and offers a predictable fit, making it a popular choice for many.
While the Air Max 90 may not be the ideal choice for basketball, it is a comfortable and stylish shoe that has remained a staple in thousands of wardrobes. Its breathable mesh and sleek, light upper make it a versatile shoe that can be worn for running errands or working long shifts. Overall, the Air Force 1 remains the signature basketball shoe of the NBA, offering both style and comfort for players on the court.
Mastering the Art of Scoring Through Contact in Basketball
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Air Max 90s are lightweight and breathable
The Nike Air Max 90 is a lightweight and breathable shoe, designed by Tinker Hatfield. The shoe was not originally intended for basketball, but rather as a running shoe, with Hatfield aiming to showcase the thickness of Nike's signature Air unit. The upper part of the shoe is sleek and light, constructed with breathable mesh. This mesh has small openings that allow for ventilation without compromising the structure of the shoe.
The Air Max 90 is a comfortable shoe, with a slightly rounded, non-aggressively tapered toebox, providing ample vertical space for the toes. The insole is of average thickness, but the Air cushioning and soft midsole provide additional comfort. The heel is slightly higher than the toe area, providing a comfortable walking experience. The shoe also offers torsional rigidity, with a big midsole, Air technology, and massive rubber walls, providing stability and protection for the feet and joints.
While the Air Max 90 is not specifically recommended for basketball, it has been worn by NBA players such as Thabo Sefolosha during the 2016 NBA season. The shoe provides a predictable fit and is true to size, making it a popular choice for many. The Air Max 90 is a versatile shoe that can be worn for various activities, from running errands to playing sports.
Overall, the Nike Air Max 90 is a well-designed shoe that offers both style and comfort. Its lightweight and breathable construction make it a popular choice for those seeking a versatile and comfortable shoe.
Fau Basketball Triumphs: A Recap of Their Winning Streak
You may want to see also
Explore related products
The Air Max 90 is a chunky shoe
The Nike Air Max 90 is a chunky shoe, designed by Tinker Hatfield, a super-designer at Nike. The Air Max 90 was originally a running shoe, released in 1990 and known then as the Air Max III. The shoe was designed to showcase the thickness of Nike's signature Air unit, with a sleek and light upper for breathability. The Air Max 90 is a chunky shoe with a big midsole, massive rubber walls, and Air cushioning technology. It has a slightly rounded, non-aggressively tapered toebox, which provides above-average width in the big toe area. The vertical space is also adequate, with a toebox height of 27.1 mm, on par with the average. The heel is significantly higher than the toe area, providing extra inches in height and great comfort. The insole thickness is average at 4.7 mm, but the Air cushioning and soft midsole provide additional comfort.
The Air Max 90 is a sturdy shoe, scoring 5/5 on the torsional rigidity test, with a padded structure that hugs the feet comfortably. The shoe is also flexible, requiring only slightly more force than average to bend. While it is a chunky shoe, it is not too heavy, weighing 13.40 oz/380g, and can be worn for long periods without causing fatigue. The Air Max 90 provides a predictable fit, with a medium width, and is true to size. Overall, the Nike Air Max 90 is a well-cushioned, stable, and comfortable shoe, making it a popular choice for many, despite not being designed for basketball.
Although the Air Max 90 is a comfortable and durable shoe, it is not specifically recommended for playing basketball. While some NBA players, such as Thabo Sefolosha, have worn the Air Max 90 during games, it is not a basketball shoe. The Air Force 1, for example, is known to be the NBA's signature basketball shoe and is a better choice for the court. The Air Max 90's chunky design and running shoe origins make it less suitable for the quick movements and agility required in basketball.
Reggie's Workplace: Basketball Wives and Their Husbands' Careers
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
While people wear all kinds of shoes for street court basketball, Air Max 90s are not recommended for professional basketball players. If you’re looking for a shoe specifically for basketball, you might want to try the newer Air Max models, the PG 5, or the Cosmic Unity model.
Yes, Atlanta Hawks small forward Thabo Sefolosha wore the Air Max 90 during the 2016-17 NBA season.
The Nike Air Force 1 has been the NBA’s signature basketball shoe since 1982 and is still worn by players today. Other popular models include the Kobe 4, 5, and 6.
The Air Max 90 has a slightly rounded, non-aggressively tapered toebox, a padded structure, and Air cushioning. It is true to size and offers a predictable fit.
The price of Air Max 90s varies depending on the model and the retailer. They can range from $45.50 to $160 for adults and $65.97 to $100 for kids.
