Its uniquely designed silhouette and revolutionary technology has made the Nike Air Max 97 one of the most iconic and sought-after Nike models of all time.
Designer Christian Tresser gave the AM97 a significant transformation compared to other sneaker designs. First introduced in 1997, the model is constructed from a synthetic leather and mesh upper paired with a rubber outsole, ensuring a lightweight and breathable fit.
The AM97 design was inspired by the sleek aesthetic of the Japanese Bullet Train, or Shinkansen, taking on distinctive wavy lines and reflective materials in its build.
It's the full-length Air Max cushioning unit that truly distinguishes it from its predecessors however, which is a defining and instantly recognisable feature of the model. The groundbreaking tech allows for maximum impact protection, and provides ultimate comfort for wearers.
It's no wonder the model has become a staple for the fashion-concious and casual wearer alike.
The Silver Bullet stands out as the most iconic Air Max 97 colorway globally. Featuring Metallic Silver mesh and reflective 3M, the Silver Bullet incorporates a striking touch of Varsity Red through the renowned Swoosh. The inspiration for the Metallic Silver colorway draws from Mountain Bike components and the metal finishes prevalent in bikes of that era.
Embracing the success of the "Silver Bullet", the "Gold Bullet" iteration replaces silver with a lustrous gold color. This eye-catching version maintains the signature design elements, including the iconic bullet train-inspired lines and reflective detailing, creating a bold and luxurious appearance.
A collaboration with streetwear brand UNDEFEATED, this edition boasts a military-inspired design. The olive green and orange colorway, along with UNDEFEATED branding, gives the Air Max 97 a unique and rugged appearance, appealing to sneaker enthusiasts and streetwear fans alike.
Paying homage to Seoul, South Korea, this special edition features vibrant pops of color inspired by the city's neon signs. The gradient effect on the upper, transitioning from black to vibrant colors, captures the energetic and dynamic spirit of Seoul's bustling streets, creating a unique and visually stunning Air Max 97.
Collaborating with Virgil Abloh's Off-White label, this version of the Air Max 97 features deconstructed aesthetics, exposed stitching, and the iconic Off-White zip tie. The design reinterprets the classic silhouette with a modern and fashion-forward approach, making it a sought-after collector's item.
The Nike Air Max 97 Ultra "Skepta" is a collaborative effort between the renowned British grime artist Skepta and Nike. Released as part of the "SkAIR" series, this iteration features a sleek black colorway with striking metallic silver and vivid red accents. The wavy design on the upper pays homage to Skepta's love for Morocco, drawing inspiration from the country's traditional architecture.
The "Atlantic Blue" colorway introduces a refreshing blend of blue tones to the Air Max 97. With a mix of navy and light blue on the upper, complemented by white and silver accents, this iteration offers a cool and summer-ready vibe to the iconic silhouette.
Swarovski® x Nike Air Max 97
While the AM97 has been treated to many collaborations over the years, one of the most outstanding in design was provided by jewellery brand Swarovski.
Dropping a sleek and extravagant women's exclusive Nike Air Max 97 in 2018, the gold upper was infused with hundreds of tiny crystals.