Although overshadowed by some of its visible Air cushioning counterparts, the Nike Air Max 97 has maintained a healthy following thanks to its importance in NIKE, Inc.’s history, boundary-pushing design and array of styles. For its latest proposition, the Christian Tresser-designed silhouette has appeared in a “Dark Smoke Grey” denim makeup.
Unlike previously-released Air Jordan retros of yesteryear, the forthcoming pair doesn’t feature co-branding from a leading jean manufacturer. Instead, the greyscale option comprises of rich red swoosh branding throughout the mid-foot, tongue and outsole. Mudguards and vamp overlays are constructed from denim swaths, but they vary in shade, with the former components boasting a “Vast Grey”-reminiscent tone. All layers, however, partake in a slight-frayed aesthetic that injects a “raw” design to the classic Air Max model. Underfoot, sole units forgo any denim fabric, but maintain a predominantly dark palette, with tread introducing an icy blue into the mix. Insoles feature non-traditional branding, with those in the left shoe donning a heart graphic that ostensibly hints at a larger love-inspired collection.
A Nike.com release date is unknown, but this Air Max 97 is likely to launch before autumn. In the meantime, enjoy official images of the pair ahead.
Elsewhere under the NIKE, Inc. umbrella, the Air Jordan 11 “Citrus” in arrives May.
Images: Nike
