It’s not often that I sit here penning really long articles, but there are times when inspiration just seems to take hold of my creative instincts, and it just pours out!
The said inspiration for this piece came on Saturday morning when I delved into my trainer collection and decided to wear my pair of crisp Nike Air Tailwind 79 (never been out of their box)!
It was at this moment that I realised just what I’ve been missing. I also had the sudden realisation that I need to start wearing my trotters and clobber a lot more often, instead of just storing it, occasionally looking at it all like a dirty old man in a brothel!
Anyway, there are few trainers that can lay claim to changing the world of running forever. The Nike Air Tailwind 79, however, is one of those rare exceptions. First released in 1978, this iconic silhouette didn’t just make a statement in style; it was a technological revolution. The Tailwind 79 is often hailed as the trainer that brought Nike’s famous Air technology to the masses, making it a must-have for athletes and casual lads and lasses alike.
A Revolutionary Beginning
The story of the Tailwind 79 begins at the Honolulu Marathon in 1978. Runners were treated to something completely new – a trainer with encapsulated air pockets in the sole. This was a monumental game-changer. Until then, runners mostly used to standard foam cushioning. But Nike, always on the cutting edge, had a different idea. The Tailwind 79 featured a specially engineered air unit that offered greater comfort, improved cushioning, and reduced weight. It was unlike anything the world had seen before, giving runners a “spring in their step” – quite literally!
By the time the Tailwind hit retail shelves in 1979, it had already created a buzz that was hard to ignore. And for good reason. With its sleek design, pioneering air cushioning, and lightweight feel, the Tailwind 79 was a trainer made for performance, but it didn’t sacrifice style.
The Birth of Nike Air
Before the Tailwind, Nike was already making waves in the sportswear industry. However, it was the Air Tailwind that really solidified Nike’s reputation as an innovative force. The “Air” in its name wasn’t just a marketing gimmick. Developed by aerospace engineer Frank Rudy, the idea of embedding pressurised air into a trainer’s sole gave birth to a whole new way of thinking about athletic footwear.
The air unit in the Tailwind provided better shock absorption, reducing the impact on joints and muscles – a benefit that wasn’t lost on marathon runners, whose feet took a pounding over long distances. This was a trainer that balanced form and function in perfect harmony, and it set the stage for Nike’s subsequent Air Max series, which remains a global phenomenon to this day.
Retro Appeal Meets Modern Comfort
Fast forward to today, and the Air Tailwind 79 still holds a special place in the hearts of trainer enthusiasts and collectors. It has become more than just a performance shoe – it’s a symbol of the 70s running boom and a testament to Nike’s innovative legacy. In 2018, Nike re-released the Air Tailwind 79 in its OG colourways, celebrating its 40th anniversary. With the same vintage design, complete with the signature mesh and suede upper and waffle sole, the shoe effortlessly bridged the gap between past and present.
What makes the Air Tailwind 79 stand out today is its blend of nostalgia and functionality. For those who crave a retro aesthetic, this trainer ticks all the boxes. But it’s not just about looks; it remains a comfortable option for day-to-day wear. After all, it’s built on the foundation of running performance, so your feet are still in good hands (or should that be soles)?
From the Track to the Streets
When the Air Tailwind 79 first hit the scene, it was all about running. Now, it’s a lifestyle statement. You’re just as likely to see these trainers being worn by fashion-forward individuals on the streets of London as you are on a morning jog. It’s a testament to the trainer’s timeless appeal that it has transcended its original purpose to become an iconic piece of footwear history.
And with the ongoing trend of retro trainers taking over the wardrobes of new generations across the UK, the Tailwind 79 has found its sweet spot. It’s a nod to Nike’s heritage without feeling out of place in a modern setting.
Why You Need a Pair
If you’re a fan of classic trainers, the Nike Air Tailwind 79 deserves a spot in your collection. Whether you’re drawn to its pioneering Air technology or its unmistakable retro design, there’s something uniquely charming about this piece of history. It’s not just a trainer – it’s a story of innovation, a reminder of the days when running shoes were first taken seriously by designers.
Plus, let’s be honest – they look fantastic with just about anything. Whether you’re pairing them with jeans, joggers, or even when your missus is wearing them with a dress (for that casual high-low fashion vibe), the Air Tailwind 79 has a versatility that’s hard to beat.
In a world full of cutting-edge trainers with the latest tech, sometimes it’s nice to look back at where it all started. The Nike Air Tailwind 79 is a trainer that’s not just living in the past – it’s very much a part of the present. And, who knows, it might just put a bit of extra “Air” in your step too, da dum tish!
To Wrap Up
The Nike Air Tailwind 79 is more than just a retro trainer – it’s a symbol of innovation, performance, and timeless design. Whether you’re a runner looking for something with a rich heritage or a style enthusiast who appreciates a classic, the Tailwind 79 won’t disappoint. After all, it’s the trainer that helped Nike soar to new heights and continues to do so, more than 40 years later, well despite Nikes current issues!
