BREAKING: Nike Air Max 1 97 Will Return As Part Of Doernbecher Freestyle 2027 Collection

Sneaker News can exclusively confirm the five footwear models included in Nike’s upcoming Doernbecher Freestyle Collection for Spring 2027, headlined by the long-awaited return of the Air Max 1/97. The hybrid silhouette, which combines the upper of the Air Max 97 with the sole unit of the Air Max 1, hasn’t released since its debut in 2018 and is widely regarded as one of the defining sneaker launches of the last decade.

The Air Max 1/97 joins an eclectic lineup for the 2027 Doernbecher Freestyle Collection that also includes a women’s Air Jordan 11 Low IE, women’s ACG Rufus, men’s Air Force 1 Mid, women’s Structure Plus, and one more unnamed model. Each silhouette will be designed by one of six pediatric patients from OHSU Doernbecher Children’s Hospital whose identities were officially revealed today as part of the annual unveiling of the program’s newest class of young designers.

The Doernbecher Freestyle program has become one of Nike’s most celebrated storytelling initiatives, pairing patients with Nike designers to create one-of-one footwear inspired by their personal journeys. Since launching in 2004, the project has produced some of the brand’s most memorable special releases while raising millions of dollars for OHSU Doernbecher Children’s Hospital.

Among this year’s selections, the Air Max 1/97 stands out as the most surprising inclusion. Originally introduced through Sean Wotherspoon’s winning design from Nike’s Vote Forward campaign, the model became an instant grail upon its release in 2018, with its corduroy construction and layered color palette helping define an era of collaborative footwear. Despite its popularity, Nike has never revisited the silhouette until now.

While this marks the first confirmed return of the Air Max 1/97, it also raises questions about whether Nike could eventually revive the hybrid model beyond the Doernbecher project. Nothing beyond the upcoming charity release has been confirmed, though its reemergence after nearly a decade could pave the way for additional colorways in the future.

Release details for the 2027 Doernbecher Freestyle Collection are expected closer to its launch, but if the 2026 collection is any indication, expect a release in January.