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Few sneakers have had as lasting an impact as the Nike Air Max 97. Its sleek, bullet-train-inspired design, full-length Air unit, and futuristic aesthetic have cemented its place in sneaker culture. From OG colorways to high-profile collaborations, the Air Max 97 has consistently pushed the boundaries of design and style. Here are the top 10 Air Max 97s of all time, ranked from 10 to 1.
10. Nike Air Max 97 ‘South Beach’
- SKU: 921826-102
- Release Date: April 1, 2018
- Description: Inspired by Miami’s vibrant culture, the ‘South Beach’ Air Max 97 features a mix of turquoise, pink, and white, making it one of the most recognizable non-OG colorways.
9. Nike Air Max 97 ‘Desert Sky’
- SKU: 312834-203
- Release Date: July 15, 2018
- Description: The ‘Desert Sky’ Air Max 97 features a stunning gradient of warm desert hues transitioning into sky blues, symbolizing the contrast between sand dunes and the evening sky, making it a standout lifestyle release.
8. Skepta x Nike Air Max 97 ‘Ultra 17’
- SKU: AJ1988-900
- Release Date: September 2, 2017
- Description: UK grime artist Skepta’s take on the 97 blends Moroccan influences with an iridescent upper, paying tribute to his roots and love for Air Max.
7. Off-White x Nike Air Max 97
- SKU: AJ4585-101 (Menta), AJ4585-100 (The Ten), AJ4585-001 (Black), AJ4585 600 (Queen)
- Release Date: 2017 (The Ten), 2018 (Menta, Black, Queen)
- Description: Coming in four versions, Virgil Abloh’s takes on the Air Max 97 feature a large Swoosh, a deconstructed upper, and Off-White’s signature Helvetica branding.
6. Nike Air Max 97 ‘Smokey Mauve’
- SKU: DX0137-600
- Release Date: July 20, 2018
- Description: A unique take on the Air Max 97, the ‘Smokey Mauve’ colorway combines earthy tones and rich textures, creating a refined yet bold aesthetic that stands out from traditional 97 releases.
5. MSCHF x INRI x Nike Air Max 97 ‘Jesus Shoes’
- SKU: 921826-101-JESUS
- Release Date: October 8, 2019
- Description: This one-of-a-kind Air Max 97 collaboration with art collective MSCHF features holy water from the Jordan River injected into the Air unit, a crucifix on the laces, and religious-themed detailing, making it one of the most unique 97s ever released.
4. CR7 x Nike Air Max 97 ‘Golden Patchwork’
- SKU: AQ0655-700
- Release Date: October 23, 2017
- Description: Designed as a tribute to Ronaldo’s childhood, this golden Air Max 97 features patchwork details symbolizing the many times his mother sewed his worn-out soccer shoes back together.
3. Nike Air Max 97 ‘Shanghai Kaleidoscope’
- SKU: CI1508-400
- Release Date: April 13, 2019
- Description: Part of the ‘On Air’ collection, this design reimagines Shanghai’s futuristic skyline with translucent blue overlays and a wavy aesthetic that embodies the city’s ever-changing nature.
2. Nike Air Max 97 ‘Sean Wotherspoon’
- SKU: AJ4219-400
- Release Date: March 26, 2018
- Description: Technically a fusion of the Air Max 97 and Air Max 1, Sean Wotherspoon’s creation features a multi-colored corduroy upper and vintage Nike aesthetics, making it one of the most beloved Air Max releases ever.
1. Nike Air Max 97 ‘Silver Bullet’
- SKU: 884421-001
- Release Date: 1997 (OG), 2013 (Retro), 2016 (Retro), 2022 (Retro)
- Description: The ultimate Air Max 97, the ‘Silver Bullet’ is the OG that started it all. Inspired by Japanese bullet trains, this metallic silver icon is the defining sneaker of the Air Max 97 lineage.
Nice Kicks has more information on Nike Air Max and upcoming sneaker release dates.
