What sizes are left?
FAQ + live marketUpdated 2026-03-11
Nike Air Max 98
Late-90s full-length Air Max shoe with a layered, technical upper and pillowy ride, a stronger design than most realize but overshadowed by the Air Max 97 in cultural memory.
Guide Score
75/100
Very Good- Comfort & fit30%
- Style & versatility25%
- Value20%
- Durability & quality15%
- Sentiment10%
- Confidence
- Medium
- Lens
- Lifestyle
- Sizing
- True to size
- Width
- Standard fit
- Dress code
- Casual
- Cushioning
- Air Sole
Key facts
- Popularity: Respected but underrated, overshadowed by the Air Max 97
- Comfort: Full-length Air unit provides a smooth, cushioned ride
- Fit: True to size, slightly longer toe box than other Air Max models
- Value: Good at $160-180 when available, often found on sale
- Use case: Casual lifestyle, retro Air Max collecting, 90s nostalgia
- Risk: Tall midsole adds bulk, limited retro availability
Shoe intelligence
Comfort 6/10Durability 6/10True to sizeAir SoleCollectingEveryday
Full breakdown
The Nike Air Max 98 was released in 1998 and was the first Nike shoe to feature a full-length visible Air unit. It has a layered mesh, synthetic leather, and reflective upper with a distinctively tall midsole. The shoe was designed by Sergio Lozano and drew inspiration from ocean waves. Despite its technical milestone, it has been overshadowed by the Air Max 97 in popular culture.
FAQ
Was the Air Max 98 the first full-length Air Max?
Yes, it was the first Nike shoe to feature a full-length visible Air unit spanning the entire length of the midsole. This was a significant technology milestone for Nike, though the Air Max 97 released a year earlier often gets confused with this distinction.
How does the 98 compare to the Air Max 97?
The 97 has a sleeker profile and much stronger cultural cachet, especially in European streetwear. The 98 is taller and bulkier with arguably better cushioning. The 97 is the fashion pick; the 98 is the more comfortable, underappreciated sibling.
Is the Air Max 98 comfortable?
The full-length Air unit provides excellent cushioning. The ride is smooth and pillowy, making it one of the more comfortable Air Max models for walking. The taller midsole adds stability but also weight.
Is the Air Max 98 worth collecting?
It has a loyal following and the Gundam colorway is an all-time classic. Retros are less frequent than the 97 or 95, which keeps demand among collectors. It is a smart pickup for Air Max enthusiasts who want something beyond the most obvious choices.
Sources & methodology
This page mixes guide writing with current store data.
The guide text links specific claims directly to these pages.