The Origin of The Nike Tn / Air Max Plus
The Nike Air Max Plus was conceived in 1998, a pivotal moment when the sneaker culture was in the throes of a significant transformation. The idea of the silhouette was from the great mind of Sean McDowell. The Air Max Plus paid tribute to the ‘90s, paying homage to the uprising subcultures of streetwear and music. The inspiration hit McDowell when he was on a vacation along the sun-drenched coast of Florida, where palm trees would sway gently in the breeze. He sought to create a shoe that would resonate with the pulsating energy of
mother nature, namely the vibrant colours of the sea and sky. The unique and eye-catching design was mostly due to the fact that McDowell was still learning the Nike aesthetic and freestyled the initial designs as no one had had given him an exact direction for the nike tn.
Design Elements of The Beloved Nike Tns
- The Iconic Exoskeleton Upper
One of the standout features of the Nike Tns is its distinctive exoskeleton upper. This TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane) cage, inspired by swaying palm trees, delivers both a bold aesthetic and added stability. It’s a design that stands out from earlier Nike silhouettes while offering a unique blend of function and style. With a variety of colour combinations, the exoskeleton lets wearers express their individuality while celebrating the heritage of the Nike TN. - Eye-Catching Gradient Colourways
The Nike TN is famous for its mesmerising gradient colourways, a hallmark of the shoe’s design. These smooth transitions between colours create a visual story on every pair. Inspired by nature, the "Sunset" colourway—shifting from light yellow to fiery orange—is one of the most celebrated examples. These gradients make every pair of Nike Tns feel like a wearable piece of art, setting them apart from traditional solid-colour sneakers. - Revolutionary Tuned Air Technology
The Nike TN introduced the revolutionary Tuned Air technology, designed to deliver a "walking-on-air" experience. Unlike traditional rubber or foam soles, Tuned Air uses pressurised gas pods in the sole for targeted cushioning and support at key pressure points. The coloured accents and unique sole design highlight this cutting-edge technology, offering both style and unmatched comfort. - Distinctive Branding with the Swoosh and ‘Tn AIR’ Logo
No Nike TN would be complete without the iconic Swoosh. For this silhouette, the Swoosh is slightly slimmer and longer, giving it a sleek look. Of course, the Tn AIR logo, in its bold yellow and black hexagonal design, plays a key role, prominently displayed on the heel. This logo is a reminder of the sneaker’s heritage and adds a finishing touch to the shoe’s eye-catching design.
Australia's Love With The Nike Tns
In Australia, the Nike TN holds a unique place in sneaker culture, becoming more than just a shoe.. it’s a symbol of style, status, and identity. From urban cityscapes to suburban streets, Nike Tns are a go-to choice for Aussies who appreciate their bold designs, comfort, and streetwear appeal.
Australian's gave the Air Max Plus the nickname 'Tn's' and the name has stuck! These sneakers gained immense popularity in the late '90s and early 2000s across Graffiti, rave, and eshay sub-cultures. Being the highest priced sneaker sold at Footlocker at the time, They became a badge of honour to Australians.
Over time, they’ve become closely tied to subcultures, representing individuality and a fearless approach to style.
The Nike TN's versatility also plays a role in its Australian success. Whether paired with sportswear, streetwear, or casual outfits, the TN strikes a balance between performance and fashion. Limited-edition releases and bold colourways further fuel demand, as collectors and casual buyers alike race to secure these iconic sneakers.
In Australia, owning a pair of Nike Tns isn't just about footwear—it's about being part of a culture that values authenticity, boldness, and a connection to one of the most celebrated sneakers of all time.
Nike Tn FAQ's
Are all your Nike Tns authentic?
Yes, at Soleseason, every pair of Nike Tns is 100% authentic, brand new, and comes in its original box. In some rare cases Tns may come with a replacement shoe box but this will be stated on the product page if so.
Do you ship Nike Tns internationally?
Absolutely! We ship Nike Tns worldwide, with competitive shipping rates. We have a large customer base spread out all over Europe and also ship to countries like USA, New Zealand, Japan, Canada to name a few.
How do I choose the right Nike Tn size?
Please refer to our Nike Tn size chart for accurate sizing in US, UK, EU, and CM measurements.
This size chart is available on every product page.
If you’re unsure, feel free to contact us for assistance.
What makes Nike Tns so popular?
The Nike Tns bold designs and cultural impact in streetwear have made them timeless favourites among sneakerheads and casual wearers alike.
Are Nike Tns unisex?
Yes, Nike Tns are designed for everyone. They come in a wide range of sizes and colourways suitable for all genders.
Why are Nike Tns so expensive?
Nike Tns are priced higher due to their cutting-edge Tuned Air technology, durable construction, and cultural significance. Limited-edition releases and exclusive colourways also drive up their value in the sneaker resell market.
Are Nike Tns good for running?
While Nike Tns are comfortable and feature Tuned Air cushioning, they’re better suited for casual wear or streetwear rather than high-performance running.
What are the most popular Nike Tn colourways?
There are many popular releases but i will list a few.
Nike Tn Pink Fades, Nike Tn Battle Blues, Nike Tn Killerwhales, Nike Tn Aqua Fades, Nike Tn Pink Atlanta.
How can I tell if my Nike Tns are authentic?
The best way to ensure you are buying authentic Tns is to buy off retailers like Nike & Footlocker - Or buying through reputable resell stores like Soleseason.