Few sneakers have had as lasting an impression because the Nike Air Max 97. Its modern, bullet-train-inspired design, full-length Air unit, and futuristic aesthetic have cemented its place in sneaker tradition. From OG colorways to high-profile collaborations, the Air Max 97 has constantly pushed the boundaries of design and elegance. Listed below are the highest 10 Air Max 97s of all time, ranked from 10 to 1.
10. Nike Air Max 97 ‘South Seashore’
- SKU: 921826-102
- Launch Date: April 1, 2018
- Description: Impressed by Miami’s vibrant tradition, the ‘South Seashore’ Air Max 97 options a mixture of turquoise, pink, and white, making it some of the recognizable non-OG colorways.
9. Nike Air Max 97 ‘Desert Sky’
- SKU: 312834-203
- Launch Date: July 15, 2018
- Description: The ‘Desert Sky’ Air Max 97 encompasses a beautiful gradient of heat desert hues transitioning into sky blues, symbolizing the distinction between sand dunes and the night sky, making it a standout way of life launch.
8. Skepta x Nike Air Max 97 ‘Extremely 17’
- SKU: AJ1988-900
- Launch Date: September 2, 2017
- Description: UK grime artist Skepta’s tackle the 97 blends Moroccan influences with an iridescent higher, 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)
- Launch Date: 2017 (The Ten), 2018 (Menta, Black, Queen)
- Description: Coming in 4 variations, Virgil Abloh’s takes on the Air Max 97 function a big Swoosh, a deconstructed higher, and Off-White’s signature Helvetica branding.
6. Nike Air Max 97 ‘Smokey Mauve’
- SKU: DX0137-600
- Launch Date: July 20, 2018
- Description: A singular tackle the Air Max 97, the ‘Smokey Mauve’ colorway combines earthy tones and wealthy textures, making a refined but daring aesthetic that stands out from conventional 97 releases.
5. MSCHF x INRI x Nike Air Max 97 ‘Jesus Footwear’
- SKU: 921826-101-JESUS
- Launch Date: October 8, 2019
- Description: This one-of-a-kind Air Max 97 collaboration with artwork collective MSCHF options holy water from the Jordan River injected into the Air unit, a crucifix on the laces, and religious-themed detailing, making it some of the distinctive 97s ever launched.
4. CR7 x Nike Air Max 97 ‘Golden Patchwork’
- SKU: AQ0655-700
- Launch Date: October 23, 2017
- Description: Designed as a tribute to Ronaldo’s childhood, this golden Air Max 97 options patchwork particulars symbolizing the various instances his mom sewed his worn-out soccer sneakers again collectively.
3. Nike Air Max 97 ‘Shanghai Kaleidoscope’
- SKU: CI1508-400
- Launch Date: April 13, 2019
- Description: A part of the ‘On Air’ assortment, this design reimagines Shanghai’s futuristic skyline with translucent blue overlays and a wavy aesthetic that embodies the town’s ever-changing nature.
2. Nike Air Max 97 ‘Sean Wotherspoon’
- SKU: AJ4219-400
- Launch Date: March 26, 2018
- Description: Technically a fusion of the Air Max 97 and Air Max 1, Sean Wotherspoon’s creation encompasses a multi-colored corduroy higher and classic Nike aesthetics, making it some of the beloved Air Max releases ever.
1. Nike Air Max 97 ‘Silver Bullet’
- SKU: 884421-001
- Launch Date: 1997 (OG), 2013 (Retro), 2016 (Retro), 2022 (Retro)
- Description: The final word Air Max 97, the ‘Silver Bullet’ is the OG that began all of it. Impressed by Japanese bullet trains, this metallic silver icon is the defining sneaker of the Air Max 97 lineage.
Good Kicks has extra info on Nike Air Max and upcoming sneaker launch dates.
