Nike is bringing back another fan-favorite Air Bakin colorway this holiday season.
The 2026 Nike Air Bakin SP “Varsity Royal” is currently scheduled to release on November 12, 2026, with a retail price of $170. The upcoming retro is expected to arrive through Nike and select Nike Sportswear retailers.
Originally introduced in 1997, the Air Bakin became one of Nike Basketball’s most recognizable designs from the late ’90s. The “Varsity Royal” colorway is particularly notable as an original colorway that has seen only one previous retro release, in 2008.
The 2026 edition features a varsity royal, black and white color palette, with royal blue dominating the upper while black mesh and overlays provide contrast. Metallic detailing, white laces and a black rubber outsole complete the throwback basketball look.
The Air Bakin also carries plenty of NBA history. The silhouette was worn during the 1990s by players including Tim Hardaway, Mitch Richmond and Kevin Garnett, helping cement the model’s place in Nike Basketball history.
The “Varsity Royal” isn’t the only Air Bakin making a comeback in 2026. Nike is also bringing back the original “Varsity Red” colorway, giving fans another opportunity to revisit one of the brand’s most distinctive basketball silhouettes.
Nike Air Bakin SP
Varsity Royal/Black-White
IQ5365-400
$170
12 November 2026
