One of the latest styles from the swoosh brand, the Nike Air Max AP makes the subject of the review section today. This sneaker was first introduced in early 2022 with a price tag of $100. This placed it just before the Air Max “budget line” that also included the likes of Torch, SC, or the Excee just to name a few. The price was likely influenced by the rising inflation but also by the extra long Air Max sole unit used. However, the sneaker was perceived as a Nike budget shoe and rightfully so. Once the price dropped later in the year it actually became a very good value.
How They Fit
We got a good deal on a pair in white, red and black at the end of the year sale. Out of the box the shoes look very nice , with a retro inspired design; they look like a simplified, much cheaper Air Max 97. Surely they are more comfortable than its more expensive counterpart, they fit just right with no need to break them in. They fit true to size and they are quite roomy for a Nike pair. Not sure about your size? You can check out this Nike shoes size chart here.
Upper
The upper of the Nike Air Max AP is made of a combination of mesh and synthetic leather. The materials feel a bit basic which recommends this style for the “budget” Air Max line. It seems like a nice shoe to wear casually but if you’re planning to make these your “beaters” they may not last that long. The upper mesh makes it so even if you have a bit wider feet to mold nicely and it also facilitates a decent air flow that makes them great to wear in warm weather. It does seem prone to get dirty pretty easily and a bit hard to get them clean, at least for the white pair I got. The upper features a synthetic leather mudguard that elongates thru the sides of the shoe as well as a heel tab. This adds some protection against dirt but still I would go for a darker color. The lacing system is pretty basic and there is some decent amount of cushioning in the ankle area for added comfort. While we did this review we tried them briefly in the gym and they felt great, however if you use them for this purpose they may not last much.
Sole Unit
The sole unit of the Air Max AP is a bit atypical for a shoe from this tier, with a somewhat visible Air Max unit with an irregular shape. From one side it seems like it goes full length but judging by the outsole design it is likely full only in the heel area and only on the outer side for the rest of the shoe. This adds some bounciness and energy return on that side which underpronators will surely appreciate. The rest of the midsole is made of a type of EVA foam that feels like Phylon, but more likely it is a cheaper version of it. On top there is the usual EVA insole. This whole setup makes these very comfortable when worn casually. The harder part of the sole unit , the rubber outsole, while adding some nice traction is pretty thin and will wear off easily.
Bottom Line
To conclude our review, the Nike Air Max AP is a very comfortable shoe best suited for everyday wear. Given that nowadays you can find it under retail it actually offers a good value if you can get them under $80. The materials are pretty basic but if you take care of them they can last you for a while. They come in various colorways in both men’s and women’s versions.
