# The Return of a Legend: Nike Air Max 95 “Neon” Makes a Comeback with the Big Bubble
Okay, I’m not gonna lie—I just spilled coffee all over my keyboard when I saw the news. The Nike Air Max 95 “Neon” is coming back. And not just any version—we’re talking THE version, with the “Big Bubble” that made us all lose our minds back in the day.
It’s been almost 30 years since I first laid eyes on these beauties. I still remember walking into Foot Locker as a college kid, my wallet painfully thin, and seeing those gradient gray waves with that electric neon yellow pop. It was love at first sight—even if my bank account wasn’t ready for that relationship.
Mark Your Calendars: April 2025
So here’s the scoop, folks. Nike is bringing back the Air Max 95 “Neon” in April 2025 to celebrate its 30th anniversary. Thirty years! How is that even possible? I swear the 90s were just yesterday, but my receding hairline tells a different story.
The release is happening in two waves. First drop is April 4th, but only if you’re in Los Angeles, New York, Chicago, or one of the major cities along the I-95 corridor. For the rest of us regular folks, we’ll have to wait until April 18th when they hit SNKRS app and retailers like JD Sports.
And yes, inflation has hit the sneaker world too. These babies will set you back $185. Not cheap, but let’s be real—we’ve all paid more for shoes we’ve worn way less.
What Makes These So Special?
For those who weren’t around in ’95 (which makes me feel ancient, thanks), you might be wondering what all the fuss is about. The Air Max 95 was revolutionary. Designed by Sergio Lozano, it was inspired by human anatomy—the gradient panels representing muscle fibers, the lace loops mimicking ribs, and the midsole representing the spine.
But the real magic was that visible air bubble—or bubbles, I should say. The “Big Bubble” version had that extra-chunky air unit that made you feel like you were literally walking on air. I remember jumping up and down in the store to “test them out” while the sales guy gave me that “are you ever gonna actually buy those” look.
The Black/Neon Yellow/Cool Grey colorway became so iconic that even non-sneakerheads recognize it. It’s like the sneaker equivalent of the Mona Lisa, except you can actually wear it.
My Love-Hate Relationship with the 95s
I’ve owned three pairs of Air Max 95s over the years. My first pair, I saved up for months working at a video rental store (yep, that was a thing). I wore them everywhere—to class, to parties, even to my cousin’s wedding, which my mom still hasn’t forgiven me for.
The second pair I bought during the 2010 retro release, and I babied those things like they were made of gold. The third pair? Let’s just say a music festival, a rainstorm, and some questionable mud wrestling decisions led to their early demise.
There’s something about the 95s that just hits different. Maybe it’s the comfort—though let’s be honest, after wearing them all day your feet do feel the burn. Or maybe it’s how they somehow look both retro and futuristic at the same time. Either way, they’ve earned their spot in sneaker history.
Will They Live Up to the Hype?
Here’s the million-dollar question: Will the 2025 version live up to our nostalgia-tinted memories? Nike says they’re staying true to the original design, but we’ve all been burned before by “faithful” reproductions that missed the mark.
I’m cautiously optimistic. The sample images look promising, with that perfect shade of neon that’s somehow both eye-searing and incredibly cool. The materials look premium, and most importantly, that big air bubble looks… well, BIG.
One thing’s for sure—the sneaker landscape has changed dramatically since 1995. What was once insider knowledge is now mainstream culture. The days of casually strolling into a store to cop a pair of limited kicks are long gone. Now it’s online raffles, bots, and resellers charging triple the retail price.
The Countdown Begins
So, will I be trying to get a pair? You bet your neon-colored socks I will. Will I be irrationally angry when I inevitably take an L on the SNKRS app? Also yes.
But that’s the beauty of being a sneakerhead—the thrill of the chase, the agony of defeat, and occasionally, the sweet victory of adding another grail to the collection. And if there was ever a shoe worth fighting for, it’s the Air Max 95 “Neon” with that glorious big bubble.
April 2025 can’t come soon enough. Until then, I’ll be here, reminiscing about the 90s, stretching my wallet, and making room in my already overcrowded closet for what might just be the release of the year.
Who else is hyped for these? Drop a comment below about your Air Max 95 memories or if you’ll be joining the rat race to secure a pair!
