The Nike Air Max 95 “Varsity Maize” is making its way back for Holiday 2025 in a bold, high-contrast design. This version ditches the model’s classic gradient look, opting for a full yellow upper contrasted with black overlays, tongue, and midsole. Metallic Silver accents and reflective 3M hits on the tongue and heel complete the aggressive color blocking.

While labeled “Varsity Maize” by Nike, the color scheme inevitably brings to mind the high energy that pulses through the streets of New York City. Yellow and black has been a popular colorway for the Air Max 95 over the years and has become one of the silhouette’s most arresting color palettes. The Corteiz “Honey Black” collab is a more recent example of the colorway’s effectiveness, and the project’s success was a clear indication that the aesthetic remains in vogue.

Debuting in 1995, the Air Max 95 was the brainchild of Sergio Lozano and is most well-known for its intricate upper, which was inspired by the many layers of the human body. Since its inception, the sneaker has been refreshed with a number of new palettes while still maintaining the DNA that made it so successful. It’s clear that Nike still knows how to remix their timeless silhouettes with engaging stories and fresh treatments like this “Varsity Maize” rendition.

The Nike Air Max 95 Big Bubble “Varsity Maize” will drop Holiday 2025 at a retail price of $190 USD on Nike.com and at select retailers.