The Nike Air Max Griffey 2000: A Sneaker Retrospective

Designed in Ken Griffey Jr.'s inaugural season with the Cincinnati Reds, the Nike Air Max Griffey 2000 was to be Griffey's breakout shoe in his anticipated breakout season coming from the Seattle Mariners. Unfortunately, due to the unfortunate circumstance of his repetitive injuries, the shoe didn't get as much publicity as it could have, but it still was a highlight for shoes that Nike released going into the new millennium.

The features of the Air Max Griffey are what help the shoe be so great-the asymmetrical cut of the shoe prevents ankle inversion with the high medial side and the lower lateral side of the shoe. The textile plate on the lateral side of the shoe also adds a design touch to the shoe to simulate armor as well as literal support for the foot itself. The full-length Max Air gives the shoe great comfort and support, and the outsole has a rugged pattern that helps gives supreme traction whether the wearer is outdoors or indoors. Beyond those features (and the speed lacing system), the Air Max Griffey is relatively simple but well-made.

As a cross-trainer, the AMG is a wonderful thing. Largely made for field training in multiple outdoor conditions and for weight training, the shoe itself is very durable. The positives of the AMG revolve around the Air setup and the heel cup fit. The mid-high cut is also good for long workouts, helping the foot stay secure throughout whatever you do. In addition, the visual aspects of the AMG give the shoe character (the Nike Alpha Project dots, the large Swingman logo on the back of the heel, the "JR" logo stitching inside the medial side of the shoe).

The only aspects of the AMG that could be considered negative have to do with its limits as a cross-trainer. It is not really recommendable for traditional cardio exercises, such as treadmill running or track running, though drill work would be more feasible for the shoe. The weight of the AMG also can make your feet fatigue quicker and the use of so much of the full-grain leather adds in its lack of good breathability. Depending on the foot of the wearer, the shoe may also seem "oversupportive" and also aid in fatigue; because of these potential issues, the best wearers are likely strongly-built or heavier men who can give the shoe a little bit of pounding with their natural weight.

While Ken Griffey did not have the results that he would have liked to enjoy while wearing these shoes, the AMG can do a good job for the non-professional athlete.

Sources: Nike/Nike.com/Eastbay magazine