Nike Salutes the Nintendo 64 With Referential Air Max 97
Sporting a very specific colorway, text and even an ESRB reference.
With several head-turning Air Max 97 makeups hitting stores recently, one could argue the iconic sneaker is enjoying a renaissance of sorts, with the timeless silhouette enjoying a bevy of playful updates. The latest colorway appears understated upon first blush, but a host of thoughtful details appear in homage to the beloved Nintendo 64 console.
Small arrows are printed in rows across the Air Max 97’s “Atmosphere Grey” upper, which take on greater meaning when considering features like the “POWER” and “RESET” verbiage emblazoned across the tongue. The prints and splashes of color (bold red, blue and green) all come together to create a motif uncannily similar to that of the 23-year old Nintendo console — specifically the “Smoke Grey” color. The “DESIGNED IN 1997” insole graphic reaffirms the inspiration, as it’s both a nod to the ESRB game rating system and a callout to the year that both the Air Max 97 and Nintendo 64 saw release.
Look for the N64-indebted Air Max 97 “Atmosphere Grey” to hit Nike’s site on September 25 for $170 USD.
The gaming-inspired Air Max is only one of the many notable sneaker silhouettes hitting stores this week.
