Nike Air Max BW (41)

The Nike Air Max BW in size 41 is the OG gabber shoe in one of the most common European mens sizes. The BW — Big Window — launched in 1991, and while Nike designed it as a running shoe, the Dutch hardcore scene adopted it as their own. The Persian Violet colorway became the definitive gabber look, though black and white pairs were equally prevalent on the dance floor.

Size 41 is right in the middle of the mens range, which means more pairs were originally produced — but it also means more demand. The Air Max BW market has shifted in recent years: original 90s pairs are now treated as vintage collectibles rather than just used sneakers, while the retro re-releases from 2016 onward have created a parallel market at lower price points. Both have their audience, but the OG pairs carry a premium that keeps climbing.

Watch out for retros being listed as originals — this is the most common issue in BW buying. The easiest tell is the interior label: 90s originals have a fabric tag with a different font and country of manufacture than modern retros. Also check the Air unit carefully. On vintage pairs, the polyurethane midsole can crumble without warning, even if the upper looks perfect. Press firmly on the midsole around the heel — if it feels soft or crumbly rather than firm and springy, walk away.