Nike Air Max
Nike Air Max 90 Essential ‘Black Infrared’ Review: A Timeless Colorway in Street-Ready Form
Introduction
Few sneakers have stood the test of time like the Nike Air Max 90. First released in 1990 and designed by the legendary Tinker Hatfield, this silhouette has evolved from a running shoe into a global lifestyle staple. Among its many colorways, the Air Max 90 Essential ‘Black Infrared’ (2013) remains one of the most distinctive and versatile.
With its sleek black base and fiery infrared accents, this pair commands attention while delivering comfort and everyday wearability. Whether you’re a longtime collector, a fan of authentic Nike shoes, or simply looking for stylish sneakers that pair with almost any fit, this Air Max 90 Essential earns its spot.
Design: Clean Foundation, Bold Accent
The ‘Black Infrared’ colorway is a remix of the original AM90 ‘Infrared’, flipping the script with a darker upper while maintaining that iconic pop of red. It’s aggressive, stealthy, and completely timeless.
Key Design Features:
- Black mesh and leather upper for a sleek, tonal look
- Infrared accents on the eyelets, heel badge, and Air bubble frame
- Grey suede overlays add subtle contrast and layering
- White midsole balances the color palette with clean separation
- Classic visible Air Max window in the heel
This colorway proves that a neutral base with a strategic burst of color can create something visually powerful and highly wearable.
Materials & Build Quality
The Essential line of the Air Max 90 features high-quality materials at an accessible price point, and the 2013 ‘Black Infrared’ version is no exception.
Material Breakdown:
- Upper: Combination of mesh, leather, and suede
- Midsole: Polyurethane with visible Air-Sole unit in the heel
- Outsole: Durable rubber waffle tread for traction and grip
- Inner lining: Padded textile for everyday comfort
- Branding: Classic Nike Air logos on tongue and heel tab
The layered construction adds durability and structure, ensuring that this pair holds up over time—both stylistically and physically.
Comfort & Performance
Though no longer used as a performance runner, the Air Max 90 still delivers solid cushioning and day-to-day comfort, making it ideal for casual wear, walking, or even travel.
Comfort Features:
- Visible Air unit in the heel absorbs shock and adds bounce
- Padded collar and tongue create a plush, secure fit
- Waffle sole pattern offers grippy traction on most surfaces
- Roomy toe box allows for natural foot splay
- True-to-size fit with stable arch support
Overall, it’s one of Nike’s most reliable silhouettes for long wear without sacrificing style.
Style Versatility: From Streetwear to Smart Casual
The ‘Black Infrared’ colorway offers maximum versatility. It’s bold enough to stand out but grounded enough to pair with a wide range of outfits—from joggers and cargos to denim and chinos.
Outfit Ideas:
- Urban Street Style: Black cargos, graphic tee, and bomber jacket
- Clean Casual: Slim jeans, white tee, and neutral overcoat
- Sporty Fit: Joggers, oversized hoodie, and techwear cap
- Monochrome Vibe: All-black outfit to let the infrared pop
Whether you’re styling it up or keeping it laid-back, the Air Max 90 ‘Black Infrared’ hits every angle right.
Who Should Buy the Air Max 90 ‘Black Infrared’?
This sneaker is ideal for:
- Air Max collectors who want a unique yet wearable colorway
- Streetwear lovers looking for versatile, fashionable sneakers
- Fans of retro Nike shoes with a modern edge
- Everyday wearers wanting comfort and durability
- People who missed the OG ‘Infrared’ but want that energy
It’s also a great starter sneaker for anyone new to the Air Max line, thanks to its timeless styling and moderate price point on the resale market.
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Clean and bold color combination | May be hard to find new pairs since it’s a 2013 release |
| Durable materials with layered construction | Infrared outsole parts may show wear over time |
| Great comfort for everyday use | Not as breathable as newer Air Max models |
| Easy to style with a variety of fits | Some might prefer newer models like AM90 FlyEase or Ultra |
Comparison Table
| Sneaker | Style Highlights | Compared to AM90 ‘Black Infrared’ |
|---|---|---|
| Air Max 90 OG ‘Infrared’ | Brighter upper, classic appeal | ‘Black Infrared’ offers more contrast and modern edge |
| Nike Air Max 95 ‘Solar Red’ | Bolder design with layered mesh | More aggressive, less versatile in outfits |
| Nike Air Max 270 ‘Black Red’ | Sleeker profile, lifestyle-first | AM90 offers more structure and retro vibe |
| Air Jordan 1 Low ‘Bred’ | Iconic, clean, basketball heritage | Less tech, more heritage-based streetwear |
The Air Max 90 ‘Black Infrared’ sits comfortably between heritage, versatility, and standout styling.
Where to Buy
While the 2013 release is no longer in production, you can still find the Nike Air Max 90 Essential ‘Black Infrared’ on select resale and collector platforms.
Trusted Buying Sources:
- TheenStyle – Your go-to for retro Air Max colorways and curated Nike drops
- GOAT – Verified listings with photos and condition filters
- StockX – Real-time market tracking and authentication
Final Verdict
The Nike Air Max 90 Essential ‘Black Infrared’ is a masterclass in balance. It’s bold but not loud, retro yet timeless, and comfortable enough for daily wear. With its crisp black base, radiant red hits, and iconic AM90 tooling, it’s a sneaker that delivers on all fronts.
Whether you’re lacing it up for style, comfort, or legacy, this is one Air Max that deserves a spot in every rotation.
Bold. Timeless. Street-ready.