Nike Air Max 97

Buy Nike Air Max 97 at Mentastore

Want to buy the Nike Air Max 97? On this page you will find our Air Max 97 sneakers for men and women, from the iconic Silver Bullet and Gold Bullet to clean black and red pairs and collaborations like UNDFTD. Order online or come and see the pairs in person at our store in Tilburg. Our Air Max 97 range is small and changes often, so it pays to check back.

The story of the Air Max 97

The Air Max 97 was designed by Christian Tresser and released in 1997. It was the first Air Max with a visible Air unit that runs along the full length of the sole, from heel to toe. Earlier models like the Nike Air Max 1 and the Nike Air Max 95 showed Air in the heel or in separate pockets, but the 97 turned the whole midsole into one long window.

The design is all about speed. The story most often told is that Japanese high speed bullet trains inspired the sleek shape and the metallic finish of the original Silver Bullet colorway. Others point to water ripples as the idea behind the wavy lines that run across the upper. Whatever the source, the result was a shoe that looked like nothing else at the time. The hidden lacing system, with the laces tucked under a panel, adds to that smooth, futuristic look.

The Air Max 97 became hugely popular in Italy soon after its release and later in London's music scene, and it has kept its place in sneaker culture ever since. More than twenty five years later it still looks modern, which says a lot about the original design.

Silver Bullet, Gold Bullet and other colorways

The Nike Air Max 97 OG Silver Bullet (2022) is the classic: metallic silver with red accents, just like the 1997 original. If you want one Air Max 97 that tells the whole story, this is it. The Nike Air Max 97 Gold Bullet swaps the silver for a shiny gold finish and is just as eye catching.

Prefer something easier to wear every day? The Nike Air Max 97 Black White Swoosh is a black pair with a contrasting white Swoosh that goes with almost any outfit. The Nike Air Max 97 University Red is a bold all red pair for people who want to stand out, and the Nike Air Max 97 QS Obsidian brings a deep navy look.

Nike Air Max 97 x UNDFTD

UNDFTD (Undefeated) is a sneaker store and streetwear brand from Los Angeles, and its Air Max 97 collaboration with Nike is a collector favorite. The Nike Air Max 97 UNDFTD Black Militia Green combines a black upper with military green details and the striped accents UNDFTD is known for, which makes the pair easy to recognize.

Air Max 97 for men and women

The Air Max 97 is a unisex sneaker. Many colorways come in a full size run, so men and women can shop the same pairs. Women's releases are marked (W) and use women's US sizing, but you simply order your EU size. Use the size filter to see which pairs are available in your size right now.

How does the Nike Air Max 97 fit?

The Air Max 97 has a slim, low profile and a fairly snug fit, especially around the toes. Many people take their usual Nike size, but if you have wide feet or like a bit of extra room, half a size up is a common choice. The full length Air unit gives a firm but springy feel underfoot that most people find comfortable for a full day of walking.

Not sure which size to choose? Visit our store in Tilburg and try a pair on. Ordering online? You have 14 days to return or exchange.

How to style the Air Max 97

The sleek shape and the metallic colors make the Air Max 97 a natural match for sporty outfits. Wear it with a tracksuit, straight jeans or slim cargo pants. The Silver Bullet looks great with grey, black and white, and a touch of red picks up the accents on the shoe. Dark pairs like the Black White Swoosh work with almost anything, from a hoodie to a smart jacket.

The metallic upper and the Air unit show scratches and dirt quickly. Wipe them with a soft cloth and use our sneaker cleaning products to keep your pair fresh.

Why buy your Air Max 97 at Mentastore?

• Physical store at Heuvelstraat 92, 5038 AH Tilburg: try on, see your pair in person or pick up your online order.
• Since April 2023 more than 30,000 satisfied customers, and a 4.3 rating on Trustpilot.
• Every item is new, unworn and checked by our own team before it ships, also items from our suppliers. 100% authentic. Read more about our authenticity check.
• In-stock items ship within 24 hours when you order before 17:00 on working days. Items from suppliers take 1 to 10 working days.
• Pay later with Klarna, 14 days to return or exchange, and shipping across Europe.

Related collections

Explore the full Nike Air Max collection, compare with the Nike Air Max 90, or have a look at the futuristic running style of the Nike P-6000. Looking for a matching outfit? Browse our tracksuits and joggers.

Frequently asked questions

Are the Nike Air Max 97 at Mentastore authentic?

Yes. Every pair is new and unworn and is checked by our own team before it ships, including pairs from our suppliers. We only sell 100% authentic sneakers.

How does the Air Max 97 fit?

Most people take their usual Nike size. The fit is slim, so with wide feet or thick socks many people go half a size up.

Why is it called the Silver Bullet?

The original 1997 colorway was metallic silver with red accents. Its shape and color are often linked to Japanese bullet trains, which gave it the nickname Silver Bullet.

Who designed the Air Max 97?

Christian Tresser designed the Air Max 97. It came out in 1997 as the first Air Max with a full length visible Air unit.

Can I try on the Air Max 97 in Tilburg?

Yes. Visit our store at Heuvelstraat 92 in Tilburg to try on pairs or pick up your online order.