The Air Jordan 4, released in 1989, is one of the most iconic sneakers in the Air Jordan lineup, designed by the legendary Tinker Hatfield. Here’s a detailed description of its features:
Design and Construction
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Upper: The Air Jordan 4 features a combination of premium leather, nubuck, and mesh. The upper includes plastic wings that allow for customized lacing, providing better support and a personalized fit.
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Midsole: It has a full-length polyurethane midsole with a visible Air-Sole unit in the heel and a second Air-Sole unit in the forefoot for maximum cushioning and impact absorption.
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Outsole: The outsole is made of solid rubber with a herringbone pattern, offering excellent traction and durability on various surfaces.
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Heel Tab: A prominent feature is the heel tab, which can be found with either the Nike Air logo or the Jumpman logo, depending on the release year and model variation.
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Tongue: The tongue of the Air Jordan 4 is padded and includes a Jumpman logo patch, adding to the sneaker’s comfort and branding.
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Mesh Panels: The shoe incorporates mesh panels on the side and tongue, enhancing breathability and giving the sneaker a distinctive look.
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Support Straps: The model includes two support straps (one on each side), which provide added stability and a snug fit.
Colorways
The Air Jordan 4 has been released in numerous colorways since its debut. Some of the most famous ones include:
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"Bred" (Black/Red): Featuring a black upper with red and grey accents.
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"White Cement": White leather upper with black, grey, and red detailing.
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"Fire Red": A white base with red and black accents.
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"Military Blue": A white upper with blue and grey highlights.
Popularity and Cultural Impact
The Air Jordan 4 gained immense popularity not only for its performance on the basketball court but also for its influence on streetwear and popular culture. Michael Jordan wore the Air Jordan 4 during the 1989 NBA season, including his famous “The Shot” against the Cleveland Cavaliers, cementing the sneaker’s place in basketball history.
Comfort and Performance
The combination of the visible Air-Sole units and the supportive upper makes the Air Jordan 4 a comfortable sneaker for both athletic performance and casual wear. The design provides a secure fit while allowing for good ventilation and flexibility.
Legacy
The Air Jordan 4 continues to be a favorite among sneaker enthusiasts and collectors, with various re-releases and collaborations over the years. Its timeless design and connection to Michael Jordan’s legacy make it a must-have for any sneaker collection.
