The Nike Air Max 95 ‘Kaomoji’ is Kawaii AF
With the of the OG ‘Neon’, it’s only expected other makeups will follow suit. This upcoming colourway, nicknamed ‘Kaomoji’ because of the included cute smiley face patches, actually taps into a deeply rooted connection. Here’s why.
Kaomojis are text-based emoticon expressions that incorporate Japanese characters to create facial expressions. And Japan loves the Air Max 95. Plus, this AM95’s Kaomojis are actually based on heritage Air Max badges known as the ‘Air Elements’ that were introduced in the very late-1990s. For example, the grumpy-looking yellow patch is a reference to the Air Max Plus’ ‘Tn Air’ heel logo. Other Easter eggs include the Zm Air, TL Air, and Lo Air logos.
Beyond the patches, this AM95’s colourway is pretty interesting too. White leather is used on the lower mudguard and toe cap, while a blue Velcro strip runs through the middle to adhere the patches. They can also be attached to the tongue, which also displays an embroidered ‘typing’ speech bubble. Elsewhere, purple accents and black mesh tie off the design, and neon yellow lining is perhaps a nod to the OG AM95. Other period correct details include reflective tabs on the heel strip and tongue loop, plus mesh-covered eyestays.
Check out the official shots above while waiting for release details to come.