The Nike Air Bakin “Black/White” will be part of Nike’s Fall/Holiday 2026 retro lineup, giving the bold 1997 hoops model another colorway for its return. The pair joins the previously reported “Varsity Red” and “Varsity Royal” releases, both of which are also expected to help lead the Air Bakin comeback.

Long tied to Tim Hardaway, the Air Bakin still has that loud late-’90s attitude. This version tones the look down a bit, but not too much. A mostly black upper sets the base, while white hits and small Metallic Silver details break up the design. The signature flame-style overlays are still the star here, keeping the shoe’s aggressive on-court identity intact.

Nike also appears to be staying close to the original build. The retro comes with a Phylon midsole, visible Air-Sole cushioning in the heel, and a Durable Rubber Compound outsole that climbs up the sides for added grip and structure. It is very much a product of its era, which is exactly why the Air Bakin still stands apart from cleaner, safer basketball retros.

Nike Air Bakin Black/White Release Date

The Nike Air Bakin “Black/White” is expected to release during Holiday 2026 at select Nike Sportswear retailers and Nike.com. The shoe will be available in men’s sizing with a retail price set at $170 USD.

Looking further ahead, Nike also has more Air Bakin releases planned for 2027, including a “Multi-Color” pair and a low-top version.

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Photos: rache1_nguyen