Originally called the Air Max Uptempo 3, the Air Max Uptempo 97 made its debut in 1997 and gained fame as Scottie Pippen's preferred footwear. It featured the iconic 'College Navy' color scheme as its original style and boasted a blend of leather and mesh materials. The distinct teardrop-accents adorned the Phylon midsole's wavy construction, emphasizing its unique design. Notably, the shoe incorporated a full-length Max Air unit for supreme cushioning, ensuring an exceptional level of comfort.