The Air Max 97 makes a return and although we do not see much of it relative to the Air Max 90 or Air Jordan 4, there still are many notable concepts out there that would turn heads if ever implemented by Nike. This time, concept artists bring us yet another potential classic in a colorway that has long been adored by fans. Presenting, the Nike Air Max 97 White Gym Red that features a combination of bright red, white, and black shades. Not only are these one of the most comfortable shoes you’ll ever wear, but in colorways such as this, you’ll look mighty fine as well!
The full-length exposed Airbag under the Air Max 97 was its most distinctive feature, albeit having a top half that appeared different from earlier Nike running shoes. A pod-like sole section would give the support that an exposed cushion would never be able to, according to early concepts for the shoes. This technology was first shown on the Air Max Uptempo ’97. The Swoosh has since worked with groups including Undefeated, Skepta, and Off-White during the preceding 24 years. In spite of this, the pair has seen a less busy retro cycle than others like the Air Max 90. The creativity of sneaker concept artists like this Air Max 97 White Gym Red, thankfully, keeps us occupied.
Coming to the design, the uppers feature a combination of majority leather and mesh. White clean leather appears on the toes and the mudguards that extend all the way to the sides while disturbed by black cutouts that feature embroidered red Swooshes. A typical wavy pattern appears on the side panels with red above the white paneling, followed by a black stripe, and so on.
Laces are also white and are intertwined with a secondary false lacing system of red strips that extend down from the tongues. Throats are jet black and lead up to a pair of black tongues with titular red embossed Nike Swooshes and heel pulls. Black sock liners make way for black interiors that likely lead down to more dark inserts with potentially white or red branding. White heel pulls, full-length white air units in the midsoles, and white outsoles with black hits finish off the design. If you want to cop a similar pair, check out the Air Max 97 Ultra 17 Habanero Red (2018). For more content such as this, stay tuned!
