Nike is Bringing Back the OG Air Bakin

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 Nike.com and select retailers. Check out the 2014 release below and stay tuned to Modern Notoriety for first looks at the latest retro and additional updates.

Nike Air Bakin OG “Varsity Red”
Release Date: Spring 2026

2014 retro photos via Flight Club:

Tim Hardaway for Nike Air Bakin (1997):

Original Nike Air Bakin ad (1997):