Air Max is one of the celebrated sneaker series in the Nike family. One among them is the Air Max Plus (TN) or Nike TN. It has been ruling the sneaker industry in the land down under. It launched in 1998 and has been an iconic staple model that hardcore sneakerheads go for ever since. While nothing can beat the OG design, Nike looks back at these models for inspiration to produce newer and more colourful models.
Origin Story of the Nike Air Max TN
In the late 1990s, Australia saw the entry of the Nike TN model designed by Sean McDowell. It reflected the serene beaches of Florida through its spray-painted fade with alien-like strange ribs. TN stands for “Tuned Air”, representing a running shoe. Initially known as the Air Max Plus, it was rebranded as Air Max TN, which quickly became one of the most popular members of the Air Max family, especially among the sneakers residing in Melbourne and Sydney.
Foot Locker’s Aussie exclusive design took over the runway of success all over the region, unofficially known as the wild child of Nike’s Air Max Dynasty. A standout feature of these sneakers is McDowell’s idea of gradient fade, which became its central component.
As they say, that beauty lies in the eyes of the beholder. Australia’s TN model, with its perfect sunset design, was interpreted as a fade of Australia’s entrails along with the ribs perceived as the swaying palm trees with overlying meshes.
Newer models of Nike Air Max Plus in the Market Today
The Nike TN models are ideal for any Australian climate, especially the warmer months. The newer designs come in a sky-blue gradient with a mesh upper body and white leather panelling on the bottom. Other popular designs include a pair in black or white with the highlighted TN logo in yellow, repeated all over the surface.
The OG models Yellow Quad and Vast Grey/ Metallic Gold, which are cult classics, have made a comeback for a brief period with stylish cushioning and highlighted accents. Additionally, the Gold Bullet and Americana are two favourites among the sneakerheads of Australia. All the models come with a distinctive signature ‘TN’ rounding off the Nike Air Max Plus model.
Cool Lacing Styles For Nike Air Max TN Sneakers
The appeal of sneakers comes not just from their colours, design and outer look but also from their styles. The section shows how one can pump up their appeal through innovative lacing styles.
The Classic 08/15 Lacing
Starting with one of the simplest, 08/15 is a lacing design that everyone learns during childhood. It is a lacing style with a simple lace crossover. The sneaker laces cross over each other through the eyelet and form a tight bow on top. One must ensure symmetry between the two bow laces.
The Lose Fit Lacing
Another well-known lacing style for the new Air Max Plus sneakers is the loose fit. Many Australian sneakerheads use this style to experience a loose running feel. One way is to tighten the laces and press the loose side inside the individual shoe. Another way is to loop the lace into 08/15 and hide the ends behind the tongue of the shoe.
Bun Knot
It is a relatively complex lace knot as it requires hand dexterity. It is a style that is pretty common among Nike Air Max models and attracts immense attention. Making a shift in the lacing style to give a bun look gives the pair of sneakers a new makeover.
