Nike Sportswear Plunges Into the Texting Realm With the Air Max 97 "Airmoji"

Inspiration can be pulled from all sorts of places when it comes to Nike and its incessant output of sneakers, and this season it has tapped into the digital world of texting and emojis to update the ever-classic Air Max 97. This latest variation to surface acts as a collection companion to the recently dropped Air Max 95 “Airmoji”.

When looking at this Swoosh proposition’s presentation, it’s safe to state that it’s surely understated in style. Breathable mesh uppers and accompanying leather overlays that serve as the mudguards are left to a clean white, while accompanying accents of black touch on a singular mid-foot overlay and down the throat. “Court Purple” accents drench the tiny lateral and medial Swooshes as well as the interior sock liners.

It’s the texting-inspired qualities of this lifestyle runner that really bring these to life though. Tongues toss out the Swoosh badges and instead opt for four dots — a nod to the graphic that pops up when someone is typing — which also act as a platform for the five detachable Airmoji patches that come packaged with the kicks. To take it a step further, the footbed’s Nike branding has been remixed to channel that of a messaging bubble.

On top of all of that, neon notes take charge and splash onto the heel’s Air Max wording as well as onto the Air units that are housed inside a see-through bubble.

If interested, you can cop these now via Nike for $180 USD.

In case you missed it, the Nike Air Max 95 “De Lo Mio” has finally received a release date.