The DQM x Nike Air Max 90 is the stuff of legends. Originally released in 2004 as a limited-edition collaboration, the shoe drew inspiration from Dave Ortiz’ butcher shop-themed boutique, with bacon as the main course.

The early 2000s were a very different time for the sneaker world than what we are experiencing today. Then, Nike was the undisputed king of footwear, leading the way with silhouettes like the SB Dunk, the all-new Nike Kobe line, and of course, Air Max silhouettes. In 2004, the brand teamed up with New York City’s DQM (Dave’s Quality Meats) boutique for an exclusive release of the fan-favorite Air Max 90. Taking inspiration from DQM’s butcher shop theme, the “Bacon” Air Max 90 displays an array of colors that immediately evoke the idea of tasty breakfast meat. Both light and dark shades of brown, red, and a splash of pink make up the legendary DQM x Nike Air Max 90, which is set to return sometime this year.

NIKE AIR MAX 90 “BACON” 2021 RELEASE INFORMATION

The legendary 2004 Air Max 90 release from New York City boutique Dave’s Quality Meats and Nike is now rumored to make a return sometime this year, likely just before March’s Air Max Day celebration. The fan-favorite Air Max will likely be limited, releasing from both Nike and select high-level retailers for $140+. Check out the images of the 2005 pair below for a better look, and stay tuned to JustFreshKicks for more Nike release news.

DQM x Nike Air Max 90 “Bacon”
Color: Sail/Straw-Medium Brown-Sheen
Style Code: CU1816-100
Release Date: March 2021

UPDATE 2/15/21: New images of the 2021 DQM x Nike Air Max 90 “Bacon” have surfaced, showing the retro version of the shoe in full detail. Coming from GOAT, these images likely mean pairs have leaked out of the Nike warehouse, and are ready to release soon.

UPDATE 1/17/21: At long last, we finally have our first look at the 2021 Dave’s Quality Meats x Air Max 90 “Bacon”, though these images do not appear to show any affiliation with DQM for this release. Titled simple “Air Max 90 NRG”, the coveted retro is still rumored to arrive in stores sometime in March 2021, falling in line with Nike’s Air Max Day, though this has yet to be confirmed. Check out eBay user J.Steals early in-hand images for a better look at the upcoming retro, and stay tuned to JustFreshKicks for further updates.

UPDATE 9/24/20: The Dave’s Quality Meats x Nike Air Max 90 has once again popped up in the rumor mill, though now the information surrounding has changed drastically. Instead of the 2020 release, we thought we would see at the top of the year, the special-edition retro colorway is now likely to release as a part of Nike’s Air Max Day celebration in March 2021. While there is no confirmation from the brand as of yet, keep it locked to JustFreshKicks for more information regarding this release.

UPDATE 6/18: Thanks to SHOF, we finally have confirmation that the DQM x Air Max 90 “Bacon” will be returning this Holiday Season. As always, we’ll keep you updated when we get a release date and more.

UPDATE 4/10: Unfortunately there is still no word on a release for the Dave’s Quality Meats x Air Max 90. We’re hoping for a release sooner than later, and we’ll be sure to keep you all updated as new information is revealed.