Available Now // Nike Air Max 97 “Airmoji” Comes with Removable Emoji Tags

Nike’s Air Max 97 has been on an unstoppable run since it’s fully-fledged rebirth back in 2017. Since then, it’s been a consistent performer for the brand, delivering banger after banger in what has become the norm for the 23-year-old silhouette. And whilst it’s not celebrating any significant anniversary this year, it refuses to be outshined by it’s neighboring Air Max 90 and Air Max 95 silhouettes. In fact, the model has one huge collaborative partnership lined up for the back end of the year — a three-piece UNDEFEATED collectionthat’s arguably bigger than any anniversary collab this year. But even it’s mainline releases are turning heads, like this new Nike Air Max 97 “Kaomoji” release that has appeared earlier today.

The pair sets off with a white mesh upper and throws on a sporadic mix of color for contrast. Hues of black, reflect silver, purple, and volt all feature throughout, though its first and last mentioned hues that provide the biggest pop. Purple, at the liner, pulls, and midfoot Swoosh adds some subtle vibrance, while the striking black overlays and outsoles provide the pair’s biggest contrast component. A streaking volt Air support underfoot is a highlight — literally — but the pair’s biggest champion lies with the titular Velcro Japanese emojis designed in the style of retro Air Max logos. Happy, sad, cheeky, and more emotions are invited to rest atop the velcro tongue tag for a customizable touch — it even sports a four-dot “typing” signal seen when waiting for a text response. Speech bubble graphic insoles complete the conversation in a punchy mid blue.

An official release date for the pair is still unknown, but the Nike Air Max 97 “Emoji” is likely to sneak into select retailers and Nike.com over the coming weeks. When they do hit shelves, we’ll be sure to keep you posted here on our official Twitter account, but until then, enjoy an official look at the pair here below.

Nike Air Max 97 “Emoji”

Release Date: February 14th, 2021

Style Code: DD9598-100
Color: White/Black/Signal Blue/Court Purple
Price: $180