As the Nike SB Air Max 95 “Cactus Flower Grey” gears up for its anticipated release, early sample pairs are already making waves in the sneaker community, shared by @Donniebsoles. Two distinct versions have surfaced, giving us a look into Nike’s behind-the-scenes design process and reminding us that the final product is always subject to change.
The first thing that stands out? The outsole. Both samples feature the expected gum sole finish, but on closer inspection, there are clear differences in the tread pattern. One pair leans more traditional, echoing the classic Air Max 95 sole, while the other introduces a subtle shift, possibly to accommodate SB-specific grip and board feel. For now, it’s unclear which version will hit retail, or if Nike has even finalised the tooling.
If you look even closer, you’ll notice some subtle but telling differences, like the embroidered mini Swoosh—which varies between the left and right shoes on the samples. This is typical during this stage of development, as Nike often tests multiple design variations on a single pair. The differences are mostly minor, focused on elements like the outsole and the material choice for the toe box, one shoe features suede, while the other uses leather, giving a rare glimpse into the design process before the final version hits shelves.
That said, the midsole and visible Air units appear consistent across both versions. No obvious changes have been made to the foam shape, bubble placement, or colour accents in that area, so it’s likely that the core cushioning setup has already been locked in. As with any pre-release heat, it’s always a game of spot-the-difference when samples start showing up. Expect possible tweaks to branding, materials, or shape before the retail drop. For now, it’s anyone’s guess which version will make the final cut, but one thing’s for sure: the SB Air Max 95 is shaping up to be one of the most intriguing hybrid drops of the year.
Stay tuned for more updates as we move closer to release, and keep your eyes peeled, you might just catch a third version floating around soon.
