Check the Jordan 4 Retro Thunder Release 2012
Tinker Hatfield changed up the game on his second of many Air Jordan designs by amping up the performance and breathability. He kept the AJ 3's mid-cut height, the visible Air unit in the heel and the "Nike Air" emblem on the back. Hatfield also retained the signature Jumpman logo on the tongue.
The Air Jordan 4 implemented a more utilitarian approach. Here's what made it stand apart:
- Cost-effective Durabuck synthetic leather upper that wipes clean with ease
- An encapsulated Air unit added to the forefoot
- The word "Flight" incorporated into the Jumpman logo—Air Jordan is meant to fly, after all
- The addition of "wings," a multiport lacing system with extra holes for a customized fit and enhanced lateral support
- A pull tab added to the heel for an easier wearing experience
- "Over-molded" mesh paneling for increased breathability, the netting was coated with urethane, dipped in soft plastic, then air-blown to remove the plastic from the net's gaps
History of the Air Jordan 4
On May 7, 1989, the world witnessed "The Shot", an impossible feat for anyone other than His Airness. Michael Jordan pulled off this legendary buzzer-beater with assistance from his Black Cement Air Jordan 4s. It was MJ's fifth year in the league and a brilliant display of his growing dominance as a superstar.
The same could be said for Tinker Hatfield, the lead designer for the Air Jordan line. After the tremendous success of the Air Jordan 3, Hatfield had his work cut out for him. Coming on the heels of one of the most popular sneaker designs ever, did he dare mess with the formula? He opted to keep the overall design similar to its predecessor but boosted the performance features.
If the Air Jordan 3 saved Nike's partnership with Jordan, the Air Jordan 4 cemented it—primarily due to the inspired design efforts of Hatfield.
Jordan 4 Retro thunder release 2012
The Jordan Retro Thunder release brought the colorway back from the 2006 Thunder and Lightning pack. Taking the Jordan 4 Retro silhouette, the colorway keeps it simple with a black upper and yellow underlays. Jordan branding on the tongue features a white Jumpman logo with yellow text, and the white Jumpman makes another appearance on the sneaker's heel. These Jordans in black and yellow also feature a yellow midsole and yellow lace lock accents on the black wings that go across the top of the upper.
Jordans Release Dates, News and Articles
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Jordan 4s Black and Yellow FAQ
Who designed the Air Jordan 4?
The Air Jordan 4 was designed by Tinker Hatfield. He's known for his work on numerous Air Jordan models, and his designs have become staples in sneaker culture. Hatfield's innovation and creativity have made the Jordan 4 one of the most recognizable shoes in the sneaker world.
What are the main features of the Air Jordan 4 design?
The Air Jordan 4 is known for its mesh on the side panels reminiscent of cargo netting, distinctive wing eyelets, and a visible Air sole unit for cushioning. These features combined give the shoe its unique and recognizable look.
Was Michael Jordan wearing the Jordan 4 in any significant games?
Michael Jordan wore the Air Jordan 4 during the 1988-1989 NBA season. While wearing them, he had numerous memorable moments. One of the most iconic was "The Shot" over Craig Ehlo in the 1989 NBA Playoffs, although he was not donning the black and yellow colorway for that game.
What materials are typically used in the Air Jordan 4?
The Air Jordan 4 traditionally uses a mix of leather, mesh, and sometimes nubuck or suede depending on the specific colorway and release.
Is there a significance to the wing eyelets on the Jordan 4?
The wing eyelets were an innovative design feature at the time of its release and have since become a defining characteristic of the silhouette.
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