Nike is doubling down on the Air Max 95 this year, and the latest throwback proves the brand isn’t done experimenting. The Air Max 95 Zip, originally dropped in 2001 (also known as the Air Max 95 “Z”) is making a comeback for Holiday 2025 in two fresh colorways: Triple Black and Loyal Blue. This is the sneaker that hides its laces under a zippered shroud, turning one of the coolest silhouettes of the ’90s into something a little different.
The reaction online has been predictably loud. Instagram sneakerheads can’t agree if this is a masterpiece or a misstep. Comments range from “Bruh them too hard no cap” to “The plain upper is hideous,” and even “Abomination.” Some have compared it to the Converse SHAI 001 by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. If nothing else, the debate shows Nike is hitting a nerve.
The 95 Zip isn’t just about the zipper gimmick, though. Nike swapped the leather panels of the original release for shaggy suede, giving the upper a textured feel. The Triple Black sticks to uniformity, with blackout suede and blue Air units peeking through the oversized bubble in the heel. Loyal Blue goes full contrast with a navy upper, burgundy midsole, and splashes of red and orange branding. The big bubble tooling remains, keeping the silhouette unmistakably 95.
Sneaker historian Brendan Dunne confirmed the update via Instagram. He notes that the Air Max 95 Zip “was a true offshoot, a love it or hate it kind of release” back in 2001. That early run went under the radar for most collectors, but the updated suede treatment makes it impossible to ignore.
This year has been all about the 95. The Neon OG made a huge return, the Yu-Gi-Oh! collab dropped, Levi’s denim variations came out, and even a Nike SB skateboarding version hit stores.
The Air Max 95 Zip is set to drop in-store and online through Nike Sportswear retailers and Nike.com for $210 USD. While exact release dates haven’t been pinned down, Holiday 2025 is the target.
RELATED: Levi’s, Nigo and Nike Collab For New Air Force 3 Low Sneaker
