The Nike Air Bakin OG “Red” will return in Spring 2026. Some of the greats wore the iconic model, and this colorway was last released in 2014.
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One of Nike Basketball’s classic silhouettes is the Air Bakin, which was initially released in 1997. We would see the model retro throughout the years, but it’s been over 10 years since we saw the original “Varsity Red” iteration debut. This will change as the shoes will return in Spring 2026.
The Nike Air Bakin was originally released in 1997. Tim Hardaway typically comes to mind when you think of the Air Bakin as he wore the shoes. However, Mitch Richmond also wore the model, and Kevin Garnett starred in a Nike commercial to promote the model.
Furthermore, the pair had a controversy. The original release featured a script on the heel that read “Air.” However, it resembled “Allah” in Arabic. After backlash from the Islamic community, Nike would recall the shoe and re-released the pair with a standard Nike Air logo.
As for retro releases, we saw several throughout the years. The first time they landed at retailers in retro form was in 2007. The next drop occurred in 2014, which included OG and new colorways. Supreme also launched two colorways of the silhouette in 2023.
As for pairs arriving in 2026, we have learned that the Original Red and Black colorway will return. This Nike Air Bakin will feature Red leather on the upper with slits running down the panels. In addition, Black appears on the base, mudguard, and midsole. Silver graces the branding, while Yellow laces make the shoes stand out. The shoes will likely have Nike Air branding, not the original “Air” script.
Nike Air Bakin OG Varsity Red 2026 Release Date
The Nike Air Bakin OG “Varsity Red” will be released in Spring 2026. The shoes will be available at select Nike Sportswear NBHD retailers and online via Nike.com. Currently, the retail price is unknown. Once we have more information, we will update you. For now, scroll below for more photos of the 2014 pair.
The “Red” Nike Air Bakin OG is making a long-awaited comeback in Spring 2026, returning a bold ‘90s favorite once worn by basketball legends. Last seen in 2014, this iconic colorway returns with its signature fiery flair—perfect for fans of retro heat and classic hoops heritage. Don’t miss your chance to grab a piece of sneaker history.
Visit our Nike Release Dates page for more upcoming drops from the brand.
Nike Air Bakin OG “Varsity Red”
Release Date: Spring 2026
Where to Buy
Frequently Asked Questions
The “OG” Nike Air Bakin in Red will be released in Spring 2026. This means a release will occur between January and March 2026.
1997.
The original release in 1997 featured the script “Air” branding on the heels, which resembled “Allah” in Arabic. This caused backlash, and Nike recalled the model but re-released it with the standard “Nike Air” branding.