This Nike Air Max 97 Lets You Stick “Kaomoji” Patches Onto The Upper

The Nike Air Max 97 hasn’t reveled in the spotlight like some of its milestone anniversary-celebrating counterparts, but it’s appeared in a handful of impressive arrangements throughout 2020. While an official release date is unknown, its recently-surfaced “White/Purple/Black” colorway complete with “Kaomoji” patches delivers a proposition sure to sell out whenever it becomes available at retailers.

At a glance, the forthcoming take on Christian Tresser’s 23-year-old design seems semi-inspired by a Halloween palette. The mesh base and signature full-length mudguard indulge in a “White” scheme, while the vamp overlays boast either silver or “Black” shimmering finishes. Collar lining, profile swooshes and pull tabs on the tongue opt into a rich “Purple” tone that’s prevalent on footwear prepped for the October 31st holiday, but ellipses near the most latter component suggest a different theme. “nike!” branding on the sockliners appears in form of a speech bubble, which is complemented by the five Japanese emoticon patches included with the Air Max pair. Underfoot, the sole unit deviates from the upper’s palette in favor of a neon green and blue combination that also appears on the lace aglets.

Enjoy official images of this Air Max 97 here below, and expect pairs to arrive to Nike SNKRS in the coming months.

For more from the Swoosh, check out the versatile Blazer Low.

Images: Nike