When it comes to Air Max, no collaborator has a portfolio as expansive and impressive as our friends at atmos. The Japanese juggernauts have been churning out some the best bubble-blessed bangers for almost two decades, including the vicious ‘Viotechs’, ever-favourite ‘Elephants’ and dubiously conspicuous ‘Duck Camos’.
We interviewed Hirofumi Kojima to deepen the design of his new collaboration
For the store’s latest Air Max collaboration, atmos director Hirofumi Kojima has ventured into previously uncharted territory, leading the way as the first collaborator in history to leave their mark on Nike’s newly resurrected Air Max 2 Light. Kojima’s design is an eccentric overload of colour and branding, inspired by Swoosh history. With pairs hitting shelves at Foot District this weekend, we caught up with the great man himself to inflate our knowledge on this highly anticipated release.
Matt Williams (M.W.) – It’s great to see the Air Max 2 Light back on shelves! I bet you were excited to when you heard it was making a comeback?
Hirofumi Kojima (H.K.) – We actually had plans to collaborate with Nike on a completely different model, but, as soon as we found out the Air Max 2 Light was returning for the first time since 1994, we knew it had to be the base for our next Air Max collab.
M.W. – What other forgotten Air Max models would you like to see return?
H.K. – That’s a difficult question, because Nike released so many great Air Max designs in the 90s. I would especially like to see the Air Max Triax 96 and Air Max 2 make a comeback, along with many of the other amazing designs that released in the mid 90s. I always wanted those sneakers when they were new, but I couldn’t afford them at the time, when I was young.
M.W. – The design of your Air Max 2 Light collab incorporates a collage of colourful classic apparel motifs from the early-to-mid 90s. Every division and sub-brand within Nike seemed to have its own unique aesthetic back then. Do you have a particular favourite clothing line or style from the era?
H.K. – I am a huge fan of Nike’s nylon jackets released between 1995 and 2000, especially the ACG designs. These were always the most colourful and stylish, and are the ones I own the most of.
M.W. – The collage aesthetic is a new one for you, as is the use of such vibrant hues. What made you decide to experiment with these design elements for this collaboration?
H.K. – The internet wasn’t nearly as prevalent during the 90s, so I was always buying and reading new sneaker and fashion magazines. I would I cut out my favourite designs and stick them on the wall or in a notebook. That collage aspect became the inspiration behind this new design. Besides, the Air Max 2 Light is mainly known for its signature OG colourways, so I wanted to create something completely fresh and new.
atmos has developed some of the most coveted collaborations in history
M.W. – Speaking of Air Max collabs, you’ve graciously treated us to retros of some your very best from the past in recent years. I, for one, am fiendishly awaiting a return of the ‘Viotech’ Air Max 1! Can we get expect any other classic atmos Air Max collabs to return in the near future?
H.K. – I know many people are hoping for our classic Air Max collaborations to return. Hopefully we will be able to resurrect a few more, but we also intend to continue creating new designs.
M.W. – atmos has already made some serious moves this year, especially with the launch of atmoscon. What else can we expect from atmos in 2019?
H.K. – We still have plenty more in store for 2019, but we don’t want to spoil any surprises. You’ll have to wait and see!
The atmos x Nike Air Max 2 Light releases at Nike store in Foot District this Friday, April 5. Get in early to secure your pair!