The Air Max 97 is still one of Nike’s best sellers and reflecting that popularity is the prolific use of this silhouette as concept art. These sneakers are used for art as much as the Air Jordan 4s and are only second to the world-famous Air Force 1 low and Air Max 90. A big reason for that is likely the cult following that they’ve accumulated. They’re not the most popular Air Maxes but their fan base is as dedicated as any other. Concept artists too are seemingly fond of using it as their canvas and bring us delightful works of art like this all-new design. Presenting, the Nike Air Max 97 Reverse Dallas!
Despite having a top half that looked different from previous Nike running sneakers, the full-length visible Airbag beneath was the shoe’s most distinguishing feature. Early designs showed the pair with technology similar to that seen on the Air Max Uptempo ’97: a pod-like sole unit would provide the stability that an exposed Cushion would have never accomplished. Over the previous 24 years, the Swoosh has collaborated with bands like as Undefeated, Skepta, and Off-White. (The latter used Tresser’s design in its 2017 “The Ten” series.) Despite this, the pair have had a calmer retro cycle than others such as the Air Max 90. Thankfully, sneaker concept artists keep us busy with work such as this Air Max 97 Reverse Dallas.
Highly reminiscent of the Air Max 97 “Home”, these sneakers feature a vibrant neon green upper with hints of black leather. Neon green leather covers the toes and the mudguards of the sneakers and extends all the way over the side panels. These panels end on the heel tabs while midway, a cutout can be seen with matching green background and a contrasting small black Nike Swoosh. Green stitching across the borders of each segment blends in nicely as well.
Ripple-like effects cover the side panels and make their way up to the throats. A green leather stripe is followed by a black one and vice-versa up until the throats. Speaking of which, the throats don a black leather and are enveloped by matching neon green traditional laces including pull tabs on the tongues. The tongues are also seemingly black leather with the only detail being embossed neon green Nike Swooshes. Green interiors and a heel pull complement the rest of the design while black midsoles with matching black Air Units and titular green outsoles finish off the design. If you’re interested in copping a similar pair, head on over to the secondary market to check out the ‘Dallas Home’ colorway. For similar content, stay tuned!