Oregon’s Division St. Unveils Nike Air Max 95/97 Hybrid

The Swoosh conglomerate has had a busy couple of months. With the spotlight on Jordan Brand's 40th anniversary and Converse’s debut signature model for Shai Gilgeous Alexander, the annual Air Max Month celebration seemed to take a backseat. However, a newly unveiled collaboration with Division Street proves there’s more in store for March 26. Enter a University of Oregon inspired Nike Air Max 95/97 hybrid.

Revealed on social media through photographer Andy Dutton, this striking collaboration pays homage to Nike's roots at its founder’s alma mater, the University of Oregon. The design is a bold fusion, combining Christian Tresser's iconic Air Max 97 upper with Sergio Lozano's enduring Air Max 95 sole, resulting in a unique hybrid sneaker.

The University of Oregon’s signature colour palette of deep greens and yellows enhances the retro Nike Running aesthetic, reminiscent of standout hybrids like Skepta’s Air Max 97/BW from 2018 or Sean Wotherspoon’s celebrated Air Max 97/1 from 2017.

This release also nods to the "sole swap" era that began with Wotherspoon’s pairing of the Air Max 97 and Air Max 1. Similar mashups like the Air Max 97 fused with the BW by Skepta and the Air Max 90 joined with a 95 sole by Patta took the sneaker world by storm but have since faded into the background.

The Air Max 95/97 hybrid stands out with its oily, iridescent finish, evoking the shimmering greens and purples of a duck’s feathers. Details like the "Ducks Of A Feather" branding on the heel stripe and tongue, Oregon emblems on the insoles, and an armored metal plating graphic add depth to the design. The exposed Air unit further enhances its dynamic look, while the overall aesthetic honors Nike’s heritage and innovative spirit.

Although official release details remain under wraps, rumours suggest the sneaker will drop in extremely limited quantities through GOAT on Wednesday, 26th March. Keep an eye out for this unique tribute to Nike’s origins.