The Nike Air Max 1 Essential University Gold blends classic design with cushioned comfort, featuring a visible Max Air unit and a mixed material upper on the silhouette that debuted in 1987. The University Gold Nike Air Max 1 Essential has a white mesh base with light gray suede overlays on the midfoot and heel. The sneaker introduces University Gold accents on the leather mudguard and Swooshes, as well as branding embroidery on the heel. More University Gold hits the sock liner and branding patch on the tongue. The sneaker sits on a foam midsole housing a visible Max Air unit, with a speckled waffle rubber outsole and round toe cage capping off the design. What our experts love about the Nike Air Max 1 Essential University Gold is how the University Gold accents energize the sneaker. The bright yellow pops against the muted light gray and white, adding a vibrant contrast to the classic silhouette. The sneaker debuted on July 1, 2024, and sold for $140.