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Original Story (05/22/25): Nike is bringing back the classic ’90s basketball Air Bakin model in its original “Varsity Red” colorway.
Designed by Eric Avar, the Nike Air Bakin features a wavy upper with mesh vents behind the upper slits for breathability. Its durable rubber outsole made it ideal for outdoor play, designed with asphalt surfaces mind. While various NBA players wore the Air Bakin, it is most closely associated with Tim Hardaway, who made the model his unofficial signature shoe for the 1997 season when he was playing for the Miami Heat.
The Air Bakin is also remembered for stirring up controversy. Original pairs from 1997 featured stylized Air branding on the heels designed to resemble flames, though some argued that it looked like “Allah” in Arabic. Following backlash from the Islamic community, these pairs were recalled and the branding was replaced with the standard Nike Air logo. Supreme referenced the OG flame-like branding in its 2023 collaboration on the model, though it was made to spell out “NYC” instead of “AIR.”
As first reported by Sneaker Files, the Nike Air Bakin “Varsity Red” is now making its return, following previous retros of the colorway in 2007 and 2014. Expect these to feature the same red leather uppers and black mesh underlays, black sole unit, and yellow laces as previous releases.
Look for the Nike Air Bakin OG “Varsity Red” to arrive in Spring 2026 via SNKRS and select retailers. Stay tuned to Modern Notoriety for first looks and additional updates.
Update (01/14/25): Originally expected to drop in Spring 2026, the Air Bakin OG is now slated to release as part of Nike’s Fall 2026 lineup.
Update (06/02/26): The Nike Air Bakin OG “Varsity Red” returns on September 28th. Check out the official images of the 2026 retro below.
Nike Air Bakin OG “Varsity Red”
Color: Varsity Red/White-Varsity Maize-Black
Style Code: IQ5365-600
Release Date: September 28, 2026
Price: $170 USD
Tim Hardaway for Nike Air Bakin (1997):
Original Nike Air Bakin ad (1997):
