Nike Air Bakin “Varsity Royal” Releases November 12th

Update, September 9, 2026: Nike has officially confirmed the Air Bakin “Varsity Royal” for November 12th, 2026, replacing the earlier Holiday 2026 window.

Nike’s Air Bakin retro is almost here. While we anxiously await the official debut of the ’90s model in its OG red style, a new pair in “Varsity Royal” has surfaced, confirmed for a November 12th release.

One of Nike’s most anticipated releases this year is the Air Bakin retro. The silhouette first landed in 1997 among a larger collection of heat inspired models, which included the Air Scald, Air Melt, Air Grill, Air B Que, and of course, the Air Bakin. The collection was largely recalled, thanks to some controversial branding on all five styles, but the Bakin made brief reappearances in 2007 and again in 2023 through a Supreme collaboration, both featuring standard Nike Air logos on the heels. Nike seems to be all in on the upcoming retro run of the high top model, with colorful tweed and low top versions in the works, in addition to the OG red and yellow style. This week, another tame colorway of the basketball classic has surfaced, pitting the models stripes leather shell piece in bold “Varsity Royal” blue. Nearly every other piece of the shoe comes in black, though white Swooshes and Air bags as well as grey laces complete the look. This pair is slated to arrive alongside a stealthy triple black look later this year.

NIKE AIR BAKIN “VARSITY ROYAL” RELEASE INFORMATION

Nike has now officially confirmed the return of their Air Bakin basketball shoe, with this “Varsity Royal” look set to release on November 12th, 2026. This pair adds the bold blue tone to the shoe’s signature striped cage outer layer, with white Nike branding and grey laces set over a black frame. Pairs will be available from both Nike and select retailers for $170.

Nike Air Bakin “Varsity Royal”
Color: Varsity Royal/Black White
Style Code: IQ5365-400
Release Date: November 12th, 2026
Price: $170

Check out the early images below, and stay tuned to JustFreshKicks on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook for more of the latest sneaker news, release dates, and restock alerts. 

Nike has now made it official: the Air Bakin “Royal” pair is locked in for November 12th at $170, alongside a stealthy triple black colorway. The retro comeback doesn’t stop there, either. A shortened Air Bakin Low build recently surfaced at Paris Fashion Week, and word is the silhouette will soon welcome its first Jae Tips collaboration.

The post Nike Air Bakin “Varsity Royal” Releases November 12th appeared first on JustFreshKicks.