Designed by veteran ACG designer Peter Fogg – the same brain who brought us the famed Nike Air Terra lineage, amongst many other celebrated pairs – the Nike Air Minot (pronounced my-not, for those interested) first took to the trails in 1997 and lifted its name from the city of Minot, North Dakota.
Often mistaken for being a member of the ACG clan, Nike's outdoor-ready Air Minot arrived as part of Nike's Trail Running lineup. In true Fogg fashion, it featured a bold, energetic design that epitomised its era and still hits hard today.
Technical in its aesthetic and components, the mid-rising model featured free-flowing overlays and drew inspiration from several sources, including road warning signs, which are apparent on the hazard-like heel stripes. Hits of 3M also popped up across the top to guarantee visibility on those late-night runs – they were a formidable bit of kit.
Although the runner wasn't a part of Nike's ACG sub-division, the Air Minot could have easily slipped into it; their waterproof design kept runners' feet bone-dry even on the wettest trails. They featured an inner Gore-Tex membrane, a water-repellent textile mesh upper, and a faux leather inner bootie. This combination excelled in keeping the elements out, but gave the pair a tight-fitting finish in the process.
The Air Minot was ideal for anyone hitting the trails in severe winter weather. A low-density 'Phylon' midsole ensured excellent cushioning even when the temperatures dipped below 40°F (4°C) and housed an Air unit in the heel and a Zoom Air unit in the forefoot for tried and tested comfort. Snow and ice weren't a concern; a heavy-lugged, dual compound outsole provided stellar traction on troublesome terrain.
Gary Payton wearing the Nike Air Minot 1988 - Credit Getty Images
Like many of Nike's trail runners, the Air Minot transcended the rough and rugged terrain it was built for and found itself lauded on the streets and on the feet of celebrities. Take a look at Gary 'The Glove' Payton donning a pair in '98; get-ups don't get much fresher than that.
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