The Nike Pearl’s popular “Air Max 97” boasts three features and models currently available for purchase. Page 3

Three features that make up the Air Max 97

Air Max 97’s feature 1: “Full-length Visible Air with an overwhelming sense of presence

Visible Air is the symbol of the Air Max series. In the original Air Max, Visible Air was only partially installed on the heel side, but in the Air Max 97, it was installed on almost the entire midsole. This “full-length Visible Air” with its wide coverage supports cushioning. The cushioning is gentle to the foot, making it easy to walk in, while the innovative design gives the foot a sense of presence.

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Air Max 97 Feature #2: “Futuristic upper inspired by the bullet train

One of the reasons for the Air Max 97’s high popularity is its futuristic upper design, which lives up to its Cybermax alias. Designer Christian Tresser says, “I imagined drops of water falling into a pond like a radiant surface that spreads out toward the Air unit.” The detailing of the wavy lines is expressed by the piping composed of reflective material. Furthermore, the original metallic color was inspired by the shape of the Japanese Shinkansen bullet train, which is said to have been inspired while photographing the streets of Tokyo. The metallic color was also influenced by the aluminum and titanium parts of Christian Tresser’s own mountain bike. The genius designer’s various ideas resulted in a futuristic body like no other.

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The upper swoosh is placed casually just above the midsole. The small size of the shoe functions as an exquisite accent.

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The design around the laces and on the tongue also gave an urban impression compared to previous models. The Air Max 97 was the first shoe in history to feature a design that concealed the laces, a design that has become a rarity in the modern era. By concealing the laces, the silhouette is sharpened, and at the same time, the radial silhouette of “water drops falling on the surface of water,” which is the origin of the design, is expressed beautifully. It is not difficult to imagine that the Air Max 97 would have been out of balance when viewed from above if the laces had protruded as on a regular sneaker. The swoosh on the tongue label, rather than the Air Max logo, also contributes to the sophisticated image. The straps on the tongue and heel make it easy to slip them on and off.

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Feature of Air Max 97 (3) “Outsole designed with functionality in mind

The Air Max 95 also had a Visible Air outsole, but this time the design emphasizes the grip of a running shoe. The tread pattern differs between the forefoot and heel sides to achieve a stable gait. The Swoosh casually placed in the center is an accent.

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