The Nike Air Max is a sports shoe created for Nike in 1987 by designer Tinker Hatfield. Its distinctive feature is the air cushioning visible on the sides of the sole. The first model, called "Air Max 87" or "Air Max 1", is white, gray and red, and a true icon of running and streetwear. It was released the same year as other flagship models from the Oregon firm, such as the Air Trainer and Air Safari. These new models, and the Air Max in particular, marked Nike's entry into a new era, as they were completely different from the sober designs adopted by the company until then. The Air Max relaunched the company from the brink of bankruptcy.