The Iconic Nike Air Max 97 Shirt and Apparel History

The Iconic Nike Air Max 97 Shirt

The Nike Air Max 97 shoe, with its iconic wavy panel design first released in 1997, has remained one of Nike's most recognizable and popular sneaker models. Over the years, the Air Max 97 aesthetic has been applied to various apparel pieces as well, including the highly coveted Nike Air Max 97 shirt.

History and Background

The original Nike Air Max 97 running shoe was designed by Christian Tresser, drawing inspiration from the metallic bodywork and riveted seams of Japanese bullet trains. This produced the signature wavy panels that flow seamlessly from the laces to the heel of the Air Max 97 sneaker.

When the Air Max 97 shoe released in 1997, it was a huge hit, quickly selling out across retailers. Its cutting-edge and unique design made it a cultural phenomenon and must-have fashion item overnight. Fans couldn't get enough of the luxuriously textured metallic upper with visible air pockets in the sole.

Rise in Popularity of the Air Max 97 Aesthetic

Over two decades after its initial debut, Nike started applying the distinctive Air Max 97 wave panel design to apparel items like t-shirts, jackets, and hoodies. This was likely spurred by the sneaker's resurgence in popularity in recent years among sneakerheads and streetwear enthusiasts.

The Nike Air Max 97 shirt, in particular, perfectly encapsulates the iconic ripples and fluid Swoosh logo placement of the original kicks. As more celebrities and influencers started rocking Air Max 97 merch, demand and hype around the wavy shirt continued to grow exponentially.

Where to Buy the Coveted Nike Air Max 97 Shirt

Due to very limited quantities and production runs, getting your hands on an authentic Nike Air Max 97 shirt often requires dedication. Most releases sell out in minutes, both on Nike's website as well as select online and brick-and-mortar retailers.

Resale sites like StockX provide alternative access to sold out and rare 97 apparel pieces, but typically at heavily inflated prices. The shirt retailed for $60 originally, but now resells for as much as $200 or more, depending on colorway and size.

Styling the Nike Air Max 97 Shirt

The Nike Air Max 97 shirt is extremely versatile, working seamlessly into any streetwear fit. For optimal old-school vibes, style it with a pair of baggy jeans or track pants and the matching 97 sneakers. Contemporary styling options include distressed denim, joggers, shorts, and slim black jeans.

To let the waves stand out, go for understated accompaniments like white or black tees and pants. For added flair, layer over a hoodie or flannel shirt. Finish things off with a backward cap, beanie, gold chains, or fanny pack.

The Air Max 97 Shirt Stands the Test of Time

Over 20 years since its debut alongside the legendary kicks, the airflow wave panels of the Nike Air Max 97 shirt are still just as iconic and highly coveted. It's withstood the test of time as a hallmark of '90s sneaker and streetwear culture.

Partnered with the right pair of sneakers, the 97 shirt remains an effortlessly cool, casual flex and quintessential addition to any hypebeast's wardrobe. For Air Max fans, grabbing the wavy shirt is a no-brainer way to show off love for Tresser's game-changing '97 design.

FAQs

What is special about the Nike Air Max 97 shirt?

The Nike Air Max 97 shirt features the signature wavy panel design seen on the iconic Air Max 97 sneakers originally released in 1997. This distinct rippled pattern makes it instantly recognizable.

Where can I buy the Nike Air Max 97 shirt?

The Nike Air Max 97 shirt sold out quickly from Nike and retailers so your best bet now is resale sites like StockX. But expect to pay inflated resale prices, likely over $100+ above retail.

What colors does the 97 shirt come in?

Nike has released the Air Max shirt in OG color schemes like silver bullets, neon blue, and red. But many other 97 apparel pieces feature black, white, or gray as the base.

What is the best way to style an Air Max 97 shirt?

The Nike Air Max 97 shirt works great in any casual streetwear fit. Wear it with jeans, joggers, shorts, etc. For the ultimate '97 vibe, style it with the matching sneakers.

Is the Nike Air Max shirt true to size?

Yes, the Nike Air Max 97 shirt fits consistently with standard Nike apparel sizing so buying your normal size should give you the intended fit.