Clark Atlanta University Gets Its Own Nike Air Max 97

The fall semester is back in session across college campuses, which means it’s time to lock in on lectures, head to the stadium for football Saturdays, and try to recover on Sunday before you repeat the same thing week after week. Luckily, Nike has plenty of NCAA partnerships that have resulted in co-branded cleats and on-campus-ready footwear collabs for students, alums, and fans to rock. We’re still awaiting release dates for multiple NCAA kicks, including an Oregon Ducks and FSU Foamposite, but we’re already getting previews of what Nike is cooking up for the spring semester, with a first look at the Clark Atlanta University Air Max 97.

Clark Atlanta University x Nike Air Max 97 Details

Likely coming as part of an overarching HBCU footwear collection, which resides under the Yardrunners banner, the CAU Air Max 97 is the perfect display of Panthers pride. Like the Air Max 95 Yardrunner pack from last year, which featured pairs for Spelman, Morehouse, Norfolk State, and FAMU, Clark Atlanta’s 97 features the school’s red, black, and white color palette across the design. A gradient black-to-red leather sits on the base, while wavy bullet train-inspired panels run from toe to heel in red.

White accents pop on the mini Swoosh on the midfoot and the leather panel running around the red tongue, while the laces opt for a grey finish. CAU’s logo graces the top of the tongue, with nods to the school’s panther mascot found on the heel’s pull tab. Though we don’t have a picture of the insole just yet, it’s likely that more hat tips to the university are found within. Finishing the sneaker is the white foam midsole featuring a full-length Air unit and a black, red, and white rubber outsole.

Clark Atlanta University x Nike Air Max 97 Release Info

The Clark Atlanta University x Nike Air Max 97 will be released Spring 2027 through Nike, Clark Atlanta University, and possibly select retailers online and in-store. Available in unisex sizing, the retail price has not been announced. Find first images of the CAU Air Max 97 below, and download the Sole Retriever mobile app for real-time alerts on the latest sneaker drops and news.

Nicholas Vlahos

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