Check the style number, usually 9 digits, matches that found on the box. The trademarked Nike swoosh is both carefully and immaculately stitched, glued or printed onto most pairs of Air Max 97 shoes. When inspecting the photo, ensure this is not done to a poor standard.

Locate the tag inside your shoe. All authentic Nike shoes have a tag sewn into them with their size, barcode and model number on it. You will recognize it most easily by the barcode.