AIR JORDAN 4: A TIMELESS JORDAN BRAND CLASSIC
THE ICONIC AIR JORDAN 4 MODEL
The Air Jordan 4 is among the most sought-after sneakers by collectors and enthusiasts, along with the legendary Air Jordan 1. Over the years, this model has evolved into an essential, becoming a benchmark in its own right. Unlike the first model in the series, it does not have a high or low version like the Air Jordan 1 Mid and its counterpart, the Air Jordan 1 High.
Following the critical and commercial success of the Air Jordan 3 silhouette, the Jumpman brand aimed to deliver another hit. In 1989, Tinker Hatfield and Nike/Jordan, the same team behind the groundbreaking AJ3, created the Air Jordan 4, or Air Jordan IV. The design was tailored to meet Michael Jordan's on-court needs, as he was at the peak of his career. The AJ4's aerodynamic design and composition catered to "His Airness'" performance requirements, prioritizing flexibility, ventilation, freedom of movement, and comfort in Hatfield's vision.
A DURABLE SNEAKER MADE OF PREMIUM MATERIALS
The sneaker boasts a nubuck leather upper combined with mesh, a first at the time. Plastic components support the ankle and heel, reinforcing foot stability and security. The Jumpman logo, first seen on the Jordan 3, is accompanied by the word "Flight." With his Jordan IV, the Bulls' number 23 would become the NBA's top scorer for the third consecutive year. The sneaker would also become legendary due to the iconic "The Shot" against Craig Ehlo during the 1989 Playoffs.
The Air Jordan 4 gained street and cultural prominence, thanks to director Spike Lee, who featured the sneaker in several of his films. It's among the shoes that have left an indelible mark on cinema, like the Air Jordan 11 in the movie "He Got Game" with Denzel Washington. Lee also produced a series of ads in collaboration with Nike for the model, solidifying its legendary sneaker status.
ENHANCED THROUGH NEW COLLABORATIONS
The sneaker's influence has been further expanded through increasingly powerful collaborations. One notable collaboration is with world-renowned artist Kaws. The New York street artist lends his signature style to the model, with gray suede inserts, Kaws' famous XX signature on the heel, and a stunning translucent Glow in The Dark sole. Other notable collaborations include the outstanding work of American denim brand Levi's with its Black and White versions. Entirely made of denim, this sneaker offers endless customization possibilities, allowing natural wear or personal touches with a chisel. More recently, influential rapper Travis Scott has presented his "Astroworld" edition in an electric blue colorway. The translucent sole and the iconic cactus Jack logo on the heel make this pair a must-have for collectors.
