The Iconic 2004 Olympic Air Max 95 Is Making a Triumphant Return in Spring 2026
Nike is digging into its vault and reviving a classic, the 2004 Olympic-themed Air Max 95 is officially slated for a comeback in Spring 2026. Originally released to celebrate the Athens Summer Olympics, this vibrant pair has long been a favorite among collectors and Air Max enthusiasts. And now, over two decades later, it’s making its return with what looks to be a nearly identical design, according to reports from Complex Sneakers.
A Design Rooted in Olympic Legacy
What made the original 2004 release so memorable was its bold and unmistakable nod to the Olympic rings. The color scheme weaves together the five iconic hues blue, yellow, black, green, and red into the layered side panels and lace loops of the Air Max 95 silhouette. Each color represents a different part of the globe, reflecting the international unity of the Olympic Games. The combination is not only visually striking, but it also taps into the emotional resonance of global sportsmanship and heritage.
The base features a mesh yellow upper with white leather overlays, providing a clean backdrop for the colourful stripes. The signature Air Max midsole retains its classic structure, accented by visible air units tinged with a hint of yellow. From a design standpoint, it’s a bold, nostalgic take that fuses performance heritage with cultural significance.
A Faithful Revival?
According to Complex Sneakers, early information on the 2026 release suggests Nike isn’t straying far from the original blueprint. The upcoming version is expected to look nearly identical to its 2004 predecessor, keeping everything from the multicolored palette to the textured layering intact. For purists and collectors, that’s music to their ears.
While no official images have surfaced just yet, the sneaker world is already buzzing. If Nike follows through with this faithful retro, the 2026 Olympic Air Max 95 could be one of the most anticipated re-releases of the year.
Stay tuned for more updates and official release details as we get closer to Spring 2026. Whether you’re a diehard Air Max fan or a newcomer to the scene, this is one drop that promises to merge sports history with streetwear energy just like it did 22 years ago.
SKU: IB7872-100
This story was first reported by Brendan Dunne and the team at Complex Sneakers. You can check out the original article for the full breakdown and all the details they’ve shared so far.