When it comes to streetwear and sneaker culture, few names hold the weight of Stash, aka Josh Frank. A true legend in the graffiti world, Stash made his mark on New York’s subway cars in the ‘80s before transitioning into the sneaker and fashion space. His ability to blend graffiti’s raw energy with sneaker culture resulted in some of the most sought-after collaborations in history. One of his most celebrated works? The 2006 Air Max 95, released as part of Nike’s Artist Series in the ‘Blue Pack,’ alongside an Air Force 1 counterpart. This AM95 quickly cemented itself as one of the greatest iterations of the silhouette, thanks to its premium materials and immaculate colour-blocking. The OG version featured a suede-heavy build with a grey gradient, blue neoprene accents, and that signature blue-speckled midsole. It was an instant classic, a true representation of Stash’s signature aesthetic and the seamless fusion of graffiti and sneaker design. Nothing can beat an OG.
The Restoration Project
For true sneaker aficionados, OG pairs hold a sentimental value that goes beyond the latest releases. Time, however, takes its toll, materials degrade, soles separate, and colours fade. That’s where the team at Manchest-Air, OSCleans, and madbyGBC stepped in, bringing a worn-out pair of Stash AM95s back to life. Their meticulous restoration work not only preserved the sneaker’s legacy but also showcased the craftsmanship and dedication of the restoration community.
Manchest-Air – Sole Swap
Manchest-Air took on the delicate task of the sole swap, ensuring that the sneakers were wearable once again while keeping the integrity of the original design. This process involved carefully removing the deteriorated sole and sourcing a period-correct replacement, ensuring the cushioning and traction remained true to the OG feel. Every detail, from the air unit placement to the speckled midsole finish, was meticulously restored to maintain authenticity. The result? A fresh foundation that stays true to the original form while making the sneaker ready to hit the streets once more.
OSCleans – Deep Cleaning & Fabric Restoration
OSCleans worked their magic using premium cleaning solutions, including Crep Protect, to breathe new life into the upper. Over the years, wear and tear had dulled the once-vibrant hues of blue and grey, and grime had settled into the suede. Using a combination of deep cleaning, fabric restoration, and colour correction, they carefully rejuvenated the sneaker’s aesthetic. The meticulous process ensured that the materials retained their softness while regaining their original depth and richness. The revived colours brought back the essence of what made this sneaker so iconic in the first place.
MadebyGBC – Stitching & Custom Touches
MadebyGBC added the finishing touches, focusing on the tongue’s stitching and reinforcing the zip functionality, an often-overlooked but crucial detail. This intricate stitching not only reinforced the structure but also showcases the additional functionality, blending seamlessly with the sneaker’s original design while adding a unique, functional twist. The craftsmanship here was a nod to both durability and the sneaker’s artistic heritage, making the restoration even more special.
Conclusion
With every stitch, swap, and clean, this project isn’t just about bringing a sneaker back to life, it’s about preserving history. The Stash Air Max 95 remains an iconic piece of both sneaker and graffiti culture, and thanks to the skilled hands of these restorers, it lives on in all its glory. In a world where sneaker culture often chases the next big release, this restoration project serves as a reminder that sometimes, the greatest sneakers have already been made, and they deserve to be kept alive for future generations to appreciate.
