These Nike Air Max 97s Are Reminiscent Of Oxidized Steel

Michael Le February 3, 2023

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During the Air Max 97‘s 25th Anniversary, the silhouette teamed up with COMME des GARCONS on two collaborative colorways, both of which featured a unique, oxidized print across their mudguards. And now, almost exactly a year thereafter, Nike is effectively replicating the Japanese label’s approach, albeit in a fashion much more colorful.

Comprised of both cool as well as earthy tones, this newly-revealed Nike Air Max 97 ostensibly emulates the look of oxidized steel. The browns throughout the shoe are akin to rust, and the light blues reminiscent of metals long subject to the elements. But the palette alone is not near enough to conjure to mind images of its inspiration; the mudguards do the brunt of the heavy lifting in this regard, donning a print treatment somewhat true to life.

Enjoy an official look at this Air Max 97 ahead. A firm release date has not yet surfaced, but it’s likely pairs will be made available through Nike.com and select retailers relatively soon.

In other news, the Shaq Victory Pump lands Feb. 17th.