Owing to the superior high energy density, metal–air batteries (e.g. lithium–oxygen batteries and sodium–oxygen batteries) have been considered promising advanced battery systems to meet today’s stringent requirements as the power source for electric vehicles (EVs) and renewable energy storage. However, the development of metal air batteries is still constrained by several serious challenges, including uncontrolled side reactions, low energy efficiency and poor cycling life. The electrochemical performances of lithium–oxygen batteries await dramatic improvement in the design of porous oxygen cathodes, efficient electrocatalysts and stable metal anodes. Herein, we present the research outcomes from our group on materials innovation for rechargeable metal air batteries. First, the family of metal air batteries will be introduced. Second, the design of porous carbon-based materials and redox mediators for high-performance air (oxygen) cathodes will be discussed. Third, facile and effective methods to enhance the electrochemical performance of lithium/sodium/Zn metal anodes will be presented, including electrolyte optimization, three-dimensional current collector design, and dual interface engineering on lithium/sodium metal anodes.