The Nike Air Mag: From pulling strings to a self lacing shoe

Backstory behind Back To The Future
In 1989, Universal Pictures unveiled a sci-fi classic featuring Michael J. Fox that garnered widespread acclaim. In the film 'Back To The Future', the protagonist receives a pair of power-lacing sneakers known as the Nike Mag. However, these shoes were not actually self-lacing at the time; during filming, a crew member had to crouch in the background and pull strings to create the illusion of automatic lacing. Fast forward decades later, as Nike continued to push the boundaries of innovation, the film inspired the release of special-edition Nike Mag shoes that were made available to the public.

Michael J. Fox wearing the Nike Air Mag concept in the movie 'Back To The Future'

The Mag came to life
Nike first collaborated with The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research in 2011 to develop the first publicly available version of the Mag. Visionary innovators Tiffany Beers and Tinker Hatfield spearheaded the creation of this replica shoe inspired by the film. Interest in bringing the shoe to life emerged over 15 years after the movie was released when 30,000 fans signed online petitions urging for a real-life version. This limited-release edition, which consisted of just 1,500 pairs featuring futuristic detailing, helped raise nearly $10 million in just 10 days at auction for Parkinson’s research with the highest bid of $37.500.

Tinker Hatfield holding the Nike Air Mag 2011

“Although it initially appeared on screen for only a few seconds alongside Michael, the concept behind the Nike Mag opened the door to something much larger at Nike,” said Mark Parker, executive chairman of Nike. “It set us on an unprecedented journey of innovation, while also highlighting our capacity to tackle some of the world’s most significant challenges. We are honored to have the opportunity to increase awareness in the battle against Parkinson’s.”

2016
Almost five years after the first release of the Nike Mag, Nike had figured out how to make the self-lacing system work. On October 4, 2016, the revolutionary new Nike Air Mag was released with the updated lacing system, just like in the movie. Only 89 pairs were available, which were sold through a raffle. For every $10 donated to the Michael J. Fox Foundation, you received one ticket for the lottery.

Self lacing Nike Air Mag 2016

Years later, the Nike Mag—considered an antique sneaker not meant for sports—can be discovered on auction and resale sites, often fetching prices in the tens of thousands of U.S. dollars.

Founded in 2000, The Michael J. Fox Foundation is committed to accelerating research focused on finding a cure for those living with Parkinson’s disease.

Nike Air Mag 2011 for sale at The Attic Streetwear

At The Attic Streetwear, we are the only ones in possession of the Nike Air Mag 2011 within the Netherlands.

We will be selling the Nike Air Mag 2011 in The Vault. Click the link below to access the listing.

Nike Air Mag 2011

- At The Attic, we guarantee 100% authentic products, excellent service, the best prices, and fast delivery.