After a lot of Air Max 90s and Air Force 1 Lows, concept artists treat us with the relatively elusive Air Max 97 in an all-new colorway that’s also reminiscent of past Nike releases. This silhouette also holds a special place in the minds of fans all over the world and they still sell out every time Nike drops a pair. Although this shoe’s paneling doesn’t allow for the same level of customization that the Air Force 1 or Air Max 90 offers, they’re still highly popular to get creative on. Presenting, the Nike Air Max 90 Reverse Laser Blue!
Christian Tresser, the creator of the Air Max 97 was told to be very careful when making this shoe as it could make or break his career. Even with the pressure, Christian delivered and the Air Max 97 was a hit. Tresser came in handy for Nike as due to his history with Reebok and focus on technological innovation, he perpetuated Nike’s leading role in the Runner’s footwear market with this product. The 97 needed to be an innovative design as the model before it had not been the retail hit that Nike had hoped. As a result, the design also revolved around a 180-degree visible Air Unit while the upper was made to be as unique as possible. This has inspired artists to continue working on this design even today.
The Air Max 97 Reverse Laser Blue, as the moniker suggests, is possibly inspired by the Laser Blue colorway that features a similar black, white, and blue color scheme in a mesh and leather build. Uppers start off with clean white leather mudguards that extend all the way to the heels, disturbed only by a mesh cut-out with a small black Nike Swoosh. Layers cover the upper as we move up, with a black segment followed by blue mesh underlays, then a white leather stripe that flows along the lateral sides and followed by another black border.
Blue mesh toes lead up to matching blue mesh throats and tongues that are kept relatively plain and covered by white laces intertwined with black secondary laces that are attached to the tongues. The relatively plain rubber tongue tags feature a black embossed “Swoosh” complemented by matching sock liners and titular interiors. Black heel pulls on the heel tabs and tongues provide additional contrast. Laser blue midsoles with full-length black exposed Air Units and titular rugged outsoles finish off the design. If you’re interested in picking up a similar pair, check out the Air Max 97 Laser Blue that you can find on the secondary market. For more concept art such as this, sign up for our newsletter!
