After his recent collaboration with American sportswear giant Nike on the NikeLab Dunk Lux Chukka, former Givenchy creative director, Riccardo Tisci is back at it again with a mid-top version on one of the brand’s iconic silhouette, the Air Max 97.
Known as the NikeLab Air Max 97 Mid x R.T., we break down what you need to know about one of the most highly anticipated sneaker collabs this year.
The theme for the collaboration is honesty
The Italian designer believes that the next huge trend in fashion is honesty and uses his latest collab to expand on this theme. With the Air Max 97 being a huge influence and impact on Italian culture, he chose to redesign a shoe that is relevant not only to him, but to his countrymen as well.
In a predominantly black colourway, the sneaker features the iconic Nike swoosh logo with gold accents. A raised padded collar gives the originally low-top shoe a mid-top silhouette. The sole of the sneaker comes in a white hue that contrasts the black upper. Tisci believes his design is timeless and will be worn throughout the fashion seasons.
The Airmax 97 was an iconic shoe in the 90s
The iconic sneaker was all the rage in the 90s, which was an iconic era in fashion where sportswear meets luxury began. Tisci made sure to retain the original silhouette of the Air Max 97 (read: the shape and length) but at the same time lending his creative direction – a higher sole for a more streetwear slant – to create a modern interpretation of the old school design.
The NikeLab Air Max 97 Mid x R.T is priced at $315 and will be available on Nike‘s website from 23 March onwards.
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