Back like it never left, the Nike Air Max Uptempo 97 is set to release alongside the Air Jordan 13 ‘He Got Game’ — and both were worn in the original Spike Lee movie.
While many are focusing on the Air Jordan 13 ‘He Got Game’, and understandably so, another model that was worn in Spike Lee’s He Got Game film was the Nike Air Max Uptempo III — now known as the Nike Air Max Uptempo 97.
Fans of the film and ’90s basketball will likely have already put two and two together, but in case you forgot, these are just as much part of the ‘He Got Game’ series of Nike releases than anything else. Materials are not what they once were on the originals or previous retro releases, but if you’re just looking to relive the past then you’re going to be more than happy with them. While the full-length Air Max unit isn’t anything like the original, the shoe is surprisingly comfortable.
I personally wouldn’t want to play in this Air Max Uptempo 97, at least not for very long, but it is playable if you’re looking for that rigid type of ride as far as flexibility and transition is concerned. The shoe was once worn by all kinds of position players in the NBA back in 1997 so it all comes down to personal preference.
We hope that you enjoy the detailed look and review for those interested in grabbing a pair. The Nike Air Max Uptempo 97 is scheduled to officially release on August 4 for $160, but it is available now online at the following retailers.
the only problems with the OG’s is that they are highly susceptible to popping similar to the the OG Jordan 28s despite how amazing the cushion was, and the rubber outsole easily burns out. although I must say that the PU was used on the OG’s instead of Phylon which Nike now uses. I felt the OG’s were more flexible compared to the new versions which are clunky and needs some considerable breaking time.
as far as complaints goes, I only have 1. outsole longevity which affects cushion longevity.
Hello! I totally get your nostalgia feelings towards 90s shoes. Personally, I’ve got the Uptempo 95, and after breaking them in, I am very satisfied (even played 3-4 times in them for pickup games). Great hearing from you, as always! Keep up the good work!
Seem pointless to me. Materials are not nice to wear them casually, the tooling is not durable nor responsive enough to hoop in.
I hooped in the Total Max Uptempos back then, and they were pretty comfy, but that was 21 years and 70 lbs. ago. Nike doesn’t make Max cushioning nearly as bouncy or comfy as they did back then. It’s half the size and hard as concrete now. Bring back versatile big man Max shoes!