Nike Air Max 1 “OG Varsity Blue”

Historical Significance

The Nike Air Max 1, designed by Tinker Hatfield, was released on March 26, 1987. Its breakthrough? The introduction of the visible Air unit in the midsole. Inspired by the Centre Pompidou in Paris—which showcased its mechanical and structural elements on the outside—Hatfield flipped the sneaker world on its head by making the Air cushioning both functional and visible.

Amongst its earliest colorways, Varsity Blue (white mesh upper, grey suede overlays, and bold blue accents) stood as one of the defining variants alongside the “Varsity Red.” The style code for the OG Varsity Blue is 2375.

Design Breakdown

• Upper: White mesh base paired with Neutral/Grey suede overlays and striking Varsity Blue mudguard and Swoosh.

• Midsole: Classic foam midsole with that revolutionary visible Air unit visible through the side window.

• Outsole: Black rubber with the familiar waffle pattern for grip.

This OG design continues to be a timeless symbol of Nike’s innovation, blending engineering brilliance with fashion-forward aesthetics

Legacy & Continued Influence

The Varsity Blue OG (2375) wasn’t just a shoe—it helped define sneaker culture. It launched the enduring Air Max legacy, bridging running performance with streetwear appeal. Its faithful reissues over the years—particularly in anniversary retros—keep its cultural power and design integrity alive.