Taking a minimal approach to the coveted AM 97.

COMME des GARÇONS is one of fashion’s premier labels, producing some of the most boundary-pushing designs through their mainline releases while also creating more accessible styles with their CDG Play sub-division. The former of the two has had a solid history when it comes to footwear collaborations, especially with Nike, as the Japanese fashion house has put its muted spin on some of the most iconic silhouettes in The Swoosh’s archives. After being unveiled at the FW22 runway show, official images of the COMME des GARÇONS x Nike Air Max 97 "Black" have appeared.

Keeping classic AM 97 construction intact, the silhouette gets a monochromatic makeover of all-black, though the leather panels do receive a worn-in treatment. Everything else is standard to your typical releases with the wavy Japanese bullet train-inspired wavy panels running around the sneaker, separated by mesh layers that all partake in the black look. Branding on the upper sees no changes with the only hit of CDG coming via the black insole’s white graphics denoting both Nike and the Japanese label. Rounding out the look is the black AM 97 midsole with a fully exposed Air unit paired with a black rubber outsole.

The COMME des GARÇONS x Nike Air Max 97 Black is expected to release in 2022 through Dover Street Market, Nike, and select retailers online and in-store. As of now, sizing and pricing information is TBD. For updates on this collaborative Air Max 97 and more in the sneaker and streetwear world, keep it locked to our Twitter and the Sole Retriever mobile app.

COMME des GARÇONS x Nike Air Max 97 "Black"

Images via Nike