In celebration of the 35th anniversary of the Air Jordan 4, Nike is unveiling a thrilling array of new releases, headlined by its first true takedown model—the Air Jordan 4 RM. The “RM” stands for “Remastered,” capturing the essence of the original Air Jordan 4 while infusing it with modern updates in the striking “Black/Light Bone” colorway.

The Air Jordan 4 RM signifies a notable evolution from the classic design, merging recognizable elements with contemporary touches. Its refined, premium appearance is crafted from a combination of textile mesh, leather, and suede. The black base paired with light bone overlays offers a visually appealing contrast, complemented by a new TPU overlay at the heel for enhanced support. Visible Air units in the revamped sole elevate comfort, making this shoe an essential for both style and practicality.

A standout feature of the Air Jordan 4 RM “Black/Light Bone” is its versatility. The sophisticated color palette and high-quality materials make it suitable for various occasions, from casual outings to more formal events. The low-top design adds an extra layer of comfort and flair to the iconic silhouette. This release underscores Nike’s dedication to innovation by integrating contemporary elements while respecting the original design. This commitment is evident in the updated side panels and the textured branded badge on the tongue.

The Air Jordan 4 RM “Black/Light Bone” will be offered in full-family sizing, with prices starting at $55 for toddler sizes and going up to $150 for men’s sizes. This wide range ensures that sneaker enthusiasts of all ages can add this highly anticipated release to their collections. Set to drop on August 21, the Air Jordan 4 RM “Black/Light Bone” will be available at select Jordan Brand retailers and on Nike.com.

As the release date draws near, anticipation is mounting for this footwear. The shoe is expected to leave a lasting impression on the sneaker community. Whether you’re a longtime Air Jordan aficionado or new to the brand, this fresh take on a beloved classic is poised to be a standout addition to any sneaker collection.

The Air Jordan: A Tradition of Innovation and Style

Michael Jordan’s Game-Worn 1985 Air Jordan 1 Sneaker

Like all Air Jordan variations, the Air Jordan 4 RM “Black/Light Bone” traces its lineage back to the Air Jordan 1, which debuted in November 1984 for basketball legend Michael Jordan during his tenure with the Chicago Bulls. At the time, Converse was the NBA’s official shoe, so Air Jordans weren’t immediately embraced. The Air Jordan officially hit the market on April 1, 1985. Designed by Nike’s Peter Moore, Tinker Hatfield, and Bruce Kilgore, the iconic shoes made a significant impact.

Michael Jordan plays against the Washington Bullets, wearing Air Jordans, in 1985

Michael Jordan’s agent, David Falk, coined the term “Air Jordan” as a tribute to both the air cushioning in Nike shoes and Jordan’s aerial prowess on the basketball court. Legend has it that the NBA initially banned the first iteration of Michael’s Jordans for violating league rules, which required sneakers to be mostly white and match the team’s jersey colors. Jordan was reportedly fined $5,000 per game for wearing the banned Air Jordan 1 sneakers, with Nike covering the fines, eager to capitalize on the publicity. “Nike’s expectation when we signed the deal was, at the end of year four, they hoped to sell $3 million worth of Air Jordans,” Falk recalls in an interview. “In year one, we sold $126 million.”

The Air Jordan 4

Photo: /Instagram

In 1989, Nike introduced the Air Jordan 4, a shoe that quickly became a classic. Designed by Tinker Hatfield, it featured a sleek, streamlined silhouette and various innovative technologies, making it a favorite among basketball players and sneaker enthusiasts. Its popularity soared even higher through its association with Michael Jordan, who wore it in several memorable games, including the legendary “Shot” in the 1989 NBA playoffs.

The Air Jordan 1, the first shoe to bear Michael Jordan’s name, instantly captivated sneaker enthusiasts worldwide. It became a must-have status symbol in the late ’80s and ’90s and remains a street-style staple today. Its success paved the way for the extensive Air Jordan line, which now includes numerous models, each with its unique style and legacy. Today, the Air Jordan 1 is one of the most iconic sneakers of all time, with countless re-releases and collaborations that continue to fuel its enduring popularity.

Featured image: Nike