The boundaries between skateboarding and sneaker culture continue to blur—and Nike is leading the charge with a bold new crossover. For the first time ever, the iconic Air Max 95 has been reimagined for the skateboarding world under the Nike SB banner. Dubbed the “Cactus Flower,” this release is as functional as it is stylish—and it’s set to make waves when it drops in August 2025.
🌸 A New Spin on a Classic
The Air Max 95, originally designed by Sergio Lozano in 1995, is known for its distinctive layered side panels and visible Air units. This skate-ready version celebrates the silhouette’s 30th anniversary, but don’t be fooled—this is no simple retro.
Nike SB has taken the essence of the AM95 and completely re-engineered it for the demands of modern skateboarding. The result is a perfect fusion of sport and street, performance and nostalgia.
🟣 Colourway & Construction
The “Cactus Flower” colourway brings a fresh pop to the familiar gradient of greys. The upper features a mix of mesh, suede, and leather in Summit White, Photon Dust, and Cool Grey. But it’s the Cactus Flower purple accents on the lace loops, mini Swoosh, sockliner, and Air units that steal the show. These vibrant hits add just the right amount of flair while staying true to the ‘90s DNA.
Nike’s attention to detail is on full display: from the premium textures to the SB branding inside the visible Air bubbles, it’s a celebration of thoughtful design.
🛹 Built for the Board
This isn’t just a pretty face—Nike SB has loaded the shoe with technical upgrades to handle real skate sessions:
• Soft Leather Overlays: Adds durability without sacrificing flex.
• Drop-In Midsole: Places your foot closer to the Air unit, improving both boardfeel and cushioning.
• Gum Rubber Outsole: Enhanced with a herringbone tread pattern for superior grip on a board.
• Reinforced Padding: Around the heel, collar, and tongue for added protection and comfort.
• Modified Tread Height: Lowered to increase stability while pushing and landing tricks.
These updates make the shoe more than just wearable—it’s skateable.
Quantities are expected to be limited, especially through local shops!
The Nike SB x Air Max 95 “Cactus Flower” isn’t just a hybrid—it’s a sign of where sneaker culture is headed. By blending a heritage silhouette with skateboarding functionality, Nike has created something that appeals to collectors, skaters, and lifestyle wearers alike.
If you’re a fan of the AM95, love SB innovation, or just want something fresh for the summer rotation, this release should be on your radar. With its bold colours, skateable tech, and cultural crossover, the Cactus Flower might be one of the most exciting Nike drops of 2025.