Nike Air Max 97 "Sashiko"

Nike is no stranger to incorporating Japanese influences, often drawing inspiration from the country’s rich culture as well as their traditional craftsmanship. And in the case of their newest collection, which has featured two Dunk Lows thus far, the brand is leaning heavily on the latter — specifically, the art of sashiko. Today, the Nike Air Max 97 was revealed to be amongst the pack. But though it may come from a similar place, the shoe’s design is far busier than its Peter Moore-designed counterparts. The colorway, with its dark navy suedes, better emulates the feel of denim. And though the grey fixtures adjacent may lack a certain punch, their multi-color mending and patchwork is certainly emblematic of the Japanese craft.