Christian Tresser had the daunting task of designing a shoe for the new Air Max cushioning, which this time occupied the entire midsole. In the previous 95 and 96 models, airbags were front and rear - Cactus Jack Shop the new generation came with the most modern technology. The upper part had to match the innovative system. The designer had to create a collective image in which every detail would be in its place.

From the first release to fashion week shows

In the fall of 1997, the Nike Air Max 97 debuted. In addition to the latest cushioning, the sneaker featured an innovative hidden lacing system. In addition, the Air Max 97 was the first Nike shoe to feature reflective elements on all sides.

It was an unconditional victory. Christian Tresser exceeded all expectations. However, the sneakers did not immediately become a hit.




In the late 90s, Nike rapidly expanded its running collection, including the Air Max line. The Air Max 97 was the flagship model for only six months - in the spring of 1998, the new Air Max 98 came out. After the release of the new generation, the "Ninety-seventh" began to be reissued in classic colors and new colors. The model was especially popular in Europe, in particular in Italy, where it received the nickname "Le Silver".

In 1998, sneakers appear on the shows of the seasonal collections of Armani and Dolce & Gabbana. So the model is noticed by fashionistas around the world.

The Nike Air Max 97 sneakers were also in demand in the traditional circles of Air Max connoisseurs - street artists and fashionable nightclub goers. And, of course, athletes used them for their intended purpose and simply ran in them.

With phenomenal success across a wide spectrum of people, the Nike Air Max 97 marks the start of another era in athletic shoe design. The defiant appearance has finally become desirable. Like the latest technology, modern sneakers with a futuristic design emphasized the status character of their owner. It is not surprising that many stars of that time chose the model for their images.

Collaborations, hybrids and legacy

In 1999, the second most popular classic color comes out for the first time - the model is reissued in a noble gold color. The first collaboration based on the silhouette was released in 2022.

To create a unique version of the model Cactus Jack Shop attracted the store True from San Francisco. The release was remembered for the incomparable quality of the materials and the small-speck print on the sole. Today, such detailing will not surprise anyone, but then it was a real miracle.