As amateur runners struggled to afford their own training and travel for competitions outside of their University-sponsored events, Phil Knight and Bill Bowerman foresaw the diminishing idea of jogging in the United States during their time working under the Blue Ribbon Sports banner. With the help of Athletics West, a motley crew of 12 amateur runners—among them Steve Prefontaine—fought against the latter and redefined competition in the nation as well as the state of running by breaking several world records and winning a gold medal. The newest Nike Air Max 90 is about to launch a new seasonal in-line collection for next year called “Athletics East” in honor of the group’s founding.
The midfoot Swoosh complements the grey nubuck overlay and mudguard, which center the clean white base layer in a doubled-up mesh design. Colorless matches present themselves across the tongue and laces. The “AIR MAX” branded midfoot panel and its quarter overlay are enclosed by a deeper grey with a faint navy undertone that is attached directly beneath, and the bright “University Blues” take control of the horizontally ridged eye stays. Underfoot, the white midsole is labeled “NIKE ATHLETICS EAST” along with further branding on the tongue tab and insoles, and the dark grey tread completes the appearance of the pair.
