The Air Jordan 4 Military Blue is a tale of nostalgia, classic design, and the iconic Nike Air branding. The recent reissue of this classic sneaker has sent ripples of excitement through the sneaker community, fashion enthusiasts, and collectors alike. We take a stroll down memory lane and explore the design significance of the Military Blue 4s, and unveil the specifics of the much-anticipated 2024 re-release.
A Brief History of the Air Jordan 4 Military Blue
The Air Jordan 4 is one of the most popular models in the legendary Air Jordan line. Designed by Tinker Hatfield and released in 1989, it set new standards for both performance and style. The Military Blue colorway, one of the OGs of the series, featured a clean white leather upper with hits of Military Blue and Neutral Grey. The sneaker was part of the range that pushed Michael Jordan’s influence from the basketball court to the wider world of fashion and pop culture.
A Closer Look at the Design
The Air Jordan 4 was a significant departure from its 1988 Air Jordan 3 predecessor, introducing several design elements that have become iconic over the years. The visible Air sole unit, the plastic lace-lock wings, and the breathable mesh material found on the side panels were all firsts for the Jumpman line. The sneaker was more focused on performance and tech than luxury unlike the Jordan 3, but still drew in attention for its dynamic look. The clean white base allowed the Military Blue accents to pop, creating a look that was at once bold and attractive.
A True Retro
Air Jordan 4 Military Blue (2006)
Air Jordan 4 Military Blue (2012)
Air Jordan 4 Military Blue (2024)
Since its 1989 debut, the Air Jordan 4 model has been re-released numerous times, each iteration bringing new audiences into the fold and solidifying the sneaker’s position as a cultural touchstone. But fans of the Air Jordan 4 Military Blue, in particular, have had to wait for years, 35 years to be exact, for a true retro of the sneaker. The Military Blue colorway has indeed retroed twice (2006 and 2012) but those didn’t take into account the original shape of the Jordan 4 nor the famous Nike Air heel treatment. This year’s retro sees the sneaker in a near-perfect 1-of-1 remake of its 1989 model. From the materials’ quality to the design’s faithfulness to the original release, this 2024 retro upholds the classic appeal that made the Jordan 4 a timeless icon.
Fresh Nike Air Feeling
Some of the most coveted Air Jordan 4 retros are those that feature ‘Nike Air’ branding on the heel tab, much like they first did in 1989. These releases aim to recreate the exact feel of getting a fresh pair of the originals. Their significance within the sneaker community is unparalleled, with many considering ‘Nike Air’ branded retros as much closer to the original spirit and design ethos of the Jordan 4. The Jordan 4 Military Blue is the last original colorway to feature the Nike Air tag, completing the retro collection for sneakerheads.
Release Information on the 2024 Jordan 4 Military Blue
This upcoming Air Jordan 4 Military Blue retro is set to drop on May 4th, 2024 for a retail price of $215. Recently, some lucky SNKRS app users were able to get the shoes early during a shock drop. Since then, StockX has seen a start in resales of the sneaker, with prices ranging closer to its MSRP. With prices at their current average of $303 before their official release, it’s likely that resale prices for the Air Jordan 4 Military Blue will drop even more. If you’re unable to get them on release day on the SNKRS app, you might be able to cop a pair on StockX closer to, or even below, retail.
