Nike Unveils The Air Max Scorpion, Among Its First Sneakers Developed Entirely During The Pandemic

The worst of the COVID-19 pandemic may be in the past, but its impact is still present. Today, NIKE, Inc. officially unveiled the Air Max Scorpion, its boldest design cushioned by visible Air units and the first to be developed entirely during the pandemic.

Traditionally, the development of a new product is an ordeal that takes up to two years and a number of physical samples produced across the globe. Due to health and safety precautions in place around the world for the better part of the last 24 months, the Swoosh’s team condensed the development timeline of the latest Air Max offering to just 18 months, all while designing the boldest cushioning system yet.

The innovative process was made possible by leveraging 3D virtual reality design software, computational design and engineering tools, machine learning, and in-house data and testing. Previous testing protocol often required eight weeks for a single idea, but the Nike Air Max Scorpion has proven that design concepts could be successfully tested by the dozen in just five weeks. One such concept that was developed with the help of the real-time 3D VR collaboration is the silhouette’s sole unit, which offers the most Air ever in terms of pounds per square inch (PSI) and the most complex-shaped bubble. The upper, which introduces a first-of-its-kind Flyknit chenille arrangement, works in-tandem with the cushioning solution underfoot to deliver an improved sensorial experience to wearers, as a piston-like effect has been achieved via strategically determined contact points. Lastly, the shoe – inherently decreasing its environmental impact through its largely virtual development – features 20% recycled content by weight, helping Nike with its sustainability goals.

Enjoy campaign imagery of the pair ahead, courtesy of Nike News, and secure your size via Nike.com on Wednesday, October 5th.

For more from the NIKE, Inc. family, check out the Air Jordan 1 “Lost and Found” expected to launch in November.