words & images // Luis Sanchez
The mid '80s were a crucial period for the Swoosh and went on to become some of the most important years in shaping the brand to what its become today. Tinker Hatfield was at the forefront of Nike's takeover, not only helping take the Air Jordan line to new heights but also bringing to life the now multi-billion dollar Nike Cross-Training category.
Working out at the Metro YMCA in Portland during his early footwear design days at Nike, Tinker noticed most people at the multi-sport facility taking part in everything from aerobics to basketball in the same pair of shoes. Realizing the negative aspects the average gym-goer would overlook, Tinker began discovering the need for a cross-training shoe that could be used for a multitude of everyday active activities. Taking off with his genius idea, Tinker brought to life the original multi-purpose shoe in the iconic Nike Air Trainer 1.
Worn by a number of world class athletes throughout the late '80s, the Air Trainer 1 by Tinker Hatfield went on to become one of the most groundbreaking and historic shoes Nike has ever produced. The original cross-trainer helped shape the careers of athletes like John McEnroe, who laced up the Air Trainer 1 in hopes of relieving a foot issue and went on to win multiple tournaments in the game-changing trainers. Bo Jackson was also at the forefront of the cross-training movement, endorsing the Air Trainer series as one of the original multi-sport athletes.
Continuing the 25th anniversary celebration of the timeless AIR Pack, Nike Sportswear reintroduces the Air Trainer 1 in its original chlorophyll colorway for the fall. Enjoy a detailed look below and look for the Air Trainer 1 to touch down at select Nike Sportswear accounts next Saturday, October 20th.
