Andrew Rizzo Following a well-received Air Max 95 pack last year, the Nike Yardrunners program has its sights set on the Air Max 97 for Fall/Winter 2026, delivering homages to a new class of HBCUs while also signaling a resurgence for the model itself. Joining a Clark Atlanta University pair is a striking blue and gold mix for North Carolina A&T, shown here via Nike officials.
Eyes are first drawn to the underlays, where a “Sail/Sport Royal/Varsity Maize” gradient runs the full length of the shoe, working in the entire color palette in one stroke. Sport Royal accents land on the inner lining, tongue, and lowermost wavy panel, while the rest of the foundation sports white reflective leather. Aggies callouts land on the insoles, spine, and tongue, joined by multicolor rope laces and a Varsity Maize full-length Air Max unit. Last but not least is a clever addition, Nike packing the shoes with a branded whistle.
The Air Max 97 has taken a back seat to silhouettes like the 95, 90, and TN in recent seasons, though all indications are that next year’s 30th anniversary will be a big one. The Air Max 97 “Silver Bullet” is coming back, as is the obscure laceless slip-on version.
The Nike Air Max 97 “North Carolina A&T University” is due out Fall/Winter 2026 for $190 in men’s sizing. Check out official images below and visit our Sneaker Release Dates hub to browse more upcoming Nikes.
WHERE TO BUY
Mens Nike Air Max 97 "NC A&T"
US 2026
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| Retailer | Release type | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Nike SNKRS | Standard | Check Site |
