The Air Jordan 4 “Military Blue” is set to make its return to shelves after a 12-year hiatus.
Technically speaking, this original colorway of the Air Jordan 4 has been renamed “Industrial Blue,” likely a decision made by Jordan Brand to avoid any negative associations with the military. But for those who aren’t interacting with the sneaker for the first time, or who merely know there history, it’ll be hard to call the shoe by anything other than its original name.
Sneakerheads have been buzzing about the return of this Air Jordan 4 not just because it’s been a dozen years since it last released, but because it’s said to faithfully recreate the original dimensions of the shoe from 1989. That includes “Nike Air” branding on the heel instead of the Jumpman, a detail that’s been revisited on other Air Jordan 4s, as well as the Air Jordan 3, but not yet “Military Blue.”
While most of the leather sneaker appears in white, its namesake color is used for the mustache, heel stabilizer, eyelets, underside of the mesh window and tongue branding. Grey is then used for the suede outsole and suede mudguard.
The return of the Air Jordan 4 “Military Blue” ends what’s been a longer wait than usual for some of the most popular Air Jordans — the Air Jordan 3 “Black Cement,” for example, is expected to release this year after appearances in 2018 and 2011 — and now completes the cycle of rendering all original Air Jordan 4 colorways with “Nike Air” branding.
The Air Jordan 4 “Military Blue”/”Industrial Blue” will release May 4 through the Snkrs app and select third-party retailers. A “Shock Drop” is also expected Thursday, April 11. Pricing is set at $215.
About the Author:
Ian Servantes is a Senior Trending News Editor for Footwear News specializing in sneaker coverage. He’s previously reported on streetwear and sneakers at Input and Highsnobiety after beginning his career on the pop culture beat. He subscribes to the idea that “ball is life” and doesn’t fuss over his kicks getting dirty.
