In 1998, Nike embarked on a new chapter with their Air Max model and unveiled the innovative ‘Nike TN Air Max Plus’. A silhouette destined to become an iconic part of the Swoosh brand's catalog, but before success, the model had to overcome a series of prejudices. Nike Air Max Plus was created in collaboration with Foot Locker, and appeared like a UFO in the sneaker world at the time. Also known by the nicknames ‘TN’ or ‘Requin’, the model quickly became popular in Australia, where it rapidly became a street icon. In contrast to the positive feedback in Australia, Nike TN was quickly negatively labeled as a pair of ‘town shoes’ in France - fast forward to today, it is one of the most popular Nike shoes for men, also in France.
TN is the result of a collab between Nike and Foot Locker (the two companies share the patent) and was designed by Sean McDowell in 1997. The designer, who had just been hired by Nike, drew inspiration for the model from a trip to Florida. The aggressive shape and unique aesthetic are taken directly from Florida's landscape, and the upper in mesh material and TPU details are created in parallel with the movements of palm trees.
The three original colorways released in 1998: Hyper Blue, Orange Tiger, and Shark Grey, have today become a must-have for many Sneakerheads when it comes to Nike TN Air Max Plus.
A beloved child has many names, and in this context, it is no exception. But even though it is called both Air Max Plus, TN, and Requin, this 90’s silhouette is actually just one - and not several different models. It all depends on the group of people referring to the shoe, as one can have a different impression of the model - or have developed a unique geographic slang for the shoe.
Nike Air Max Plus is known for its aggressive outward look, and the sharp lines on the upper, reminiscent of Nike Air Max, which give an impression of movement and speed at first glance. Similarly, the discreet but definitely iconic mini-Swoosh, which has been on the TN since the first release, is reused. If you find the sneaker a bit too wild, you can also buy Nike TN shoes in Black.
Although the popular little sister Air Max 95 does not come close to Nike TN in terms of the upper, the sole is an obvious common denominator for the two with AIR technology, which is also reflected in the name. Just like the other models released before Nike TN Air Max Plus, the AM95 uses the same cushioning technology at the front of the silhouette - while the Plus model stands out with the new Tuned Air technology used at the back.
Also check out our selection of Nike Air Force 1 and Nike Dunk.
