Eric Koston x Nike SB Air Max 95 – A Skate Legend Meets Sneaker History
When Eric Koston teams up with Nike SB, you know something big is coming. No hype gimmicks, no forced collab energy – just a shoe with real legacy. The Nike SB Air Max 95 Eric Koston is more than a release; it’s a fusion of past and present, of skate culture and sneaker innovation. It connects two worlds that have shared the same rhythm for decades: Skateboarding and Streetwear culture.
Since joining the Nike SB program in 2009, Eric Koston has been leaving his mark everywhere. His ideas and deep connection to Nike’s heritage helped shape some of the most iconic SB classics and signature models. The 30th anniversary of the legendary Air Max 95 was the perfect occasion for a reimagined version – inspired and refined by one of the most influential skaters of all time.
From the Track to the Streets – The Story of the Air Max 95
The Nike Air Max 95 has deep roots in both streetwear and sneaker culture. When it first dropped in the mid-’90s, it changed everything we knew about sneaker design. Created by Sergio Lozano, the shoe drew inspiration from the human body – the midsole as a spine, the layered panels as muscle fibers. It was bold, raw, and way ahead of its time.
Quickly adopted by the streets of New York, London, and Tokyo, the Air Max 95 became a symbol of rebellion, confidence, and urban identity. What started as a running shoe evolved into a streetwear icon, loved by graffiti artists, rappers, and skaters alike. In the UK, it became a part of grime and jungle culture, while in the US it stood for unapologetic style and attitude.
Now, three decades later, Nike SB is bringing that same energy back – this time built for skateboarding.
Eric Koston – From Bangkok to L.A., Shaping Skate Culture
Eric Koston doesn’t need an introduction. Born in Bangkok, Thailand and raised in Los Angeles, he became one of the defining figures in modern skateboarding. His influence goes beyond tricks and contests – he shaped the style, mindset, and creative freedom that define the culture today.
Since joining Nike SB in 2009, Koston has been more than just a sponsored pro – he’s been a creative force helping merge performance and design. From his Koston 1 model to various Dunk Low collaborations, he’s proven that skateboarding is as much about expression and aesthetics as it is about movement. The new Nike SB Air Max 95 Eric Koston is a tribute to that mindset – blending nostalgia, innovation, and personal history.
The Koston Touch – Details That Tell a Story
Koston gave the Air Max 95 his own touch – adding skate-ready details on the tongue and insole, plus a Thai “Nike” script on the toe box that nods to his roots and early SB designs. His signature Obsidian/Speed Yellow colorway reflects both his clean style and his connection to classic sport heritage.
The upper combines nubuck, suede, and mesh – a mix that balances durability, flexibility, and breathability, ideal for skating. Reinforced double stitching in high-wear zones adds toughness, while reduced foam enhances boardfeel. The redesigned herringbone outsole delivers extra traction and precision. Despite all the upgrades, the shoe stays true to the OG silhouette and keeps its iconic Max Air unit, preserving the look and feel of the original while optimizing performance for the board.
To round it off, Nike SB drops a matching apparel capsule alongside the shoe – featuring a T-shirt, crewneck, flannel shirt, and jeans, all designed to match Koston’s effortless style. The collection ties the story together, creating a head-to-toe look rooted in skate DNA and timeless street culture.
The Nike SB Air Max 95 Eric Koston and the complete capsule collection release on November 1, 2025, available in our Frankfurt store and online on our website.
