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Arguably Christian Tresser’s most famous design, the Air Max 97 returns this season for a series of vinyl-inspired metallic colourways. But before we take a look at the up and coming iterations, a quick look back at the silhouette’s history.

Launching in 1997 as its namesake would suggest, the original edition of the Nike Air Max 97 launched in an all silver colour palette. Affectionately known as “La Silver’ in Italy, the shoe’s original design inspirations come from further east. Its streamlined aesthetic draws inspiration from Japan’s 200mph travelling transport system, the Bullet Train.

Christian Tresser’s design incorporated many firsts for Nike, including the use of a full-length air unit, full wraparound reflective 3M strips, and the introduction of a hidden lace design to mask the fastening system for a clean aesthetic. The model’s bold, daring design caught the eye of many a  fashionista, and where better for a shoe to find it’s spiritual home than one of the most fashion conscious countries in the world.

Adopted by an infinite number of Italian subcultures, the flamboyant design wasn’t designated to just one group. It was a shoe that crossed subcultural barriers, worn by graffiti writers and fashion heads, as well both as the dance music and hip hop crowds.

With their 20th-anniversary reintroduction in 2017, the classic runners found a whole new generation of sneaker fans to appeal to. This season the coveted model returns in a slew of eye-catching metallic colourways, reworking the famous ‘Silver Bullet’ and ‘Metallic Gold’ editions.

Arriving in three colour-blocked designs, with shiny leather overlays cemented towards the lower half of the upper, with breathable mesh and 3M reflective panels sitting to the top.

The Nike Air Max 97 QS ‘B-Sides’ Pack will be available on the size?previews app and in selected size? stores on Friday 9th November, priced at £155 in men’s and women’s – UK sizes 3-12.

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