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There were a handful of high-profile 30th anniversaries for sneakers in 2025, though one has kind of flown under the radar compared to others: the Nike Air Max Uptempo 95. While it’s been overshadowed by the slew of Air Max 95 colorways and the Air Jordan 5’s anniversary, a handful of OG renditions (and even a new NYvsNY colorway) have hit shelves. The model will continue to receive releases into 2026 as Nike plans to retro Derek Fisher’s Los Angeles Lakers-themed colorway.
If you’re unfamiliar with Derek Fisher, the now-retired NBA legend was first drafted in 1996 by the Los Angeles Lakers, the same year Kobe Bryant entered the league. The two would eventually end up on the Lakers after Bryant was traded ahead of the 1996-1997 season, and they would both go on to play pivotal roles in the Lakers' three-peat from 2000 to 2002. During these years, he would take the court in the Air Max Uptempo 95, famously wearing two Lakers-themed colorways, one of which just returned a few months ago.
As for this purple-based Air Max Uptempo 95, the pair was initially released in 2003 and then retroed in 2015. This 2026 release comes with the same product SKU, meaning the pair will be identical to the 2015 version. Expect to see purple hues dominate the nubuck panel, white leather on the base, and accenting hits of gold throughout. Final details include a purple and gold Swoosh, gold branding on the heel, and a white foam midsole featuring purple Swoosh branding, golden Air units, and a purple outsole.
The Nike Air Max Uptempo 95 Derek Fisher will release April 24, 2026 through Nike and select retailers online and in-store. Available in men’s sizing, the retail price is set at $170. Download the Sole Retriever mobile app to stay updated on the latest releases, raffles, news, and more in the sneaker and streetwear world.
Images via GOAT
Sneakerhead from South Florida who turned his passion into a career. When not writing for Sole Retriever, I enjoy watching films and discovering music. Follow me on Letterboxd @nickvlah For tips, reviews, or any shoes in a size 13, email nick@soleretriever.com
