The Nike Air Bakin is Back in Black and Blue for the Holidays

The Nike Air Bakin has been making waves lately, and we’re not just talkin about the side panels. The retro high-top that looks like an electric stovetop frying bacon is returning in OG and new multi-color blends, starting with the iconic red pair later this month. After that, though, another 1997 icon is coming back in black and blue.

Blue Bakin

The Nike Air Bakin Black Varsity Royal has been seen on the streets ahead of its second-half 2026 drop, most notably on the feet of recently minted Nike partner Jae Tips at the NY vs. NY basketball tournament. With the colorway on the Nike calendar for a Holiday release, a set of retailer images to go along with the retro drop has appeared.

Starting with black textured fabric on the toe and lower section of the side panels, the wavy slitted panels running up the high-top ankle switch to Varsity Blue on top of a black mesh backing. The tongue switches back to black, with grey on the laces and Swoosh branding.

Nike Air Bakin Varsity Royal Release Details

The Nike Air Bakin Varsity Royal will be released November 12, 2026 through Nike and select retailers in-store and online. Available in men’s sizing, the retail price is set at $170. For all the latest Nike retro news and drop info, download the Sole Retriever App.

Nike Air Bakin Varsity Royal

Release Date

11/12/2026

SKU

IQ5365-400

Colorway

Varisty Royal/White-Black-Metallic Silver

Retail Price$170

Live PriceTBD

Zach Harris

Zach Harris is a writer based in Philadelphia. His work has appeared in Rolling Stone, Vice, Complex, High Times, and more. He is obsessed with skateboarding and bowling. He is still looking for his first 300. For tips, reviews, and anything in size 10.5 - zach.h@soleretriever.com