Bee-inspired honeycomb print with golden accents on classic Tuned Air silhouette, also nicknamed "Manchester." The Nike Air Max Plus "Black Honey" transforms the iconic 1998 runner into a vibrant hive with hexagonal patterns and golden detailing that pays homage to Manchester's worker bee symbol.

Design & Inspiration

The Nike Air Max Plus debuted in 1998, designed by Sean McDowell and originally known as "Tuned Air" or "TN." McDowell conceptualized the silhouette during a vacation in Florida, sketching sunset-inspired gradients under palm trees. The wavy TPU overlays mimicking palm trees swaying in the breeze became the model's signature design element. The Air Max Plus was created for Foot Locker's exclusive "Sky Air" project and introduced groundbreaking Tuned Air technology—Nike's first running shoe featuring two opposing polymer hemispheres to absorb impact and provide targeted cushioning.

The silhouette transcended its performance roots to become a cultural phenomenon, particularly in the UK, France, and Australia where it earned unofficial rebrand as "TN." The iconic hexagonal TN Air logo on the heel, initially an afterthought McDowell was reluctant to include, became one of Nike's most famous design elements. The Air Max Plus has been in continuous production since 1998, released in hundreds of colorways without any downtime. Nike spent 2025 celebrating the Air Max 95's 30th anniversary but is now refocusing attention on the Air Max Plus in 2026.

This "Black Honey" colorway—also nicknamed "Manchester"—celebrates the worker bee symbol that has represented Manchester since 1842. The black and yellow/golden color scheme directly references Manchester's iconic worker bee, which symbolizes the city's industrious spirit from the Industrial Revolution when Manchester became a global hub of cotton manufacturing. Black mesh base features all-over honeycomb hexagonal pattern in light yellow hue. Small yellow Swoosh on side panel matches yellow carbon fiber treatment in middle of midsole. Custom honeycomb and bumblebee graphics on tongue logos. Golden bee graphic embroidered behind tongues. Profile swooshes, whale tail-shaped shanks, and Air Max cushioning rendered in darker yellow shade. Baroque Brown and Linen accents throughout. The design evokes the "Honey Black" Corteiz Air Max 95 collaboration from April 2025.

Comfort & Performance

Revolutionary Tuned Air technology features two opposing polymer hemispheres that reduce pressure in cushion, increasing cushioning level while raising stability. Different rubber hemispheres visible throughout midsole provide targeted support at foot's natural pressure points. Full-length Air Max cushioning delivers springy, responsive feel ideal for all-day wear. Breathable mesh upper with TPU overlays provides ventilation and structural support. Durable rubber outsole with deep tread ensures reliable traction.

Release Information & Pricing

The Nike Air Max Plus "Black Honey Manchester," releases on Feb 5th 2026 through Nike Store and select Nike retailers. Men's sizing. Retail price is €200/£185.