Behind the Design: Nike SB x Air Jordan 4 ‘Navy’

Posted on by Carsten Alex

Nike SB and Jordan Brand are back.

Behind the Design: Nike SB x Air Jordan 4 'Navy'

The Nike SB x Air Jordan 4 ‘Navy’ is officially here, marking the latest evolution in the partnership between Nike Skateboarding (SB) and Jordan Brand. This collaboration builds on the success of the ‘Pine Green’ release from 2023, which introduced skate-specific enhancements to the legendary Air Jordan 4 silhouette. With its mix of basketball heritage and skate-ready modifications, the ‘Navy’ colorway continues the fusion of two cultural movements while honoring the sneaker’s rich history​. This article delves into the design, significance, and appeal of the Nike SB x Air Jordan 4 ‘Navy.’

History of the Air Jordan 4

Designed by the renowned sneaker designer Tinker Hatfield, the Air Jordan 4’s creation was a significant leap forward in footwear innovation. Hatfield’s design journey for the Air Jordan line started on the Air Jordan 3, with him being the lead designer and transitioning the footwear line to being more performance-driven. His Air Jordan 3 design brought confidence in Michael Jordan at a time when he was considering leaving Nike. The Air Jordan 4 is arguably one of Tinker Hatfield’s greatest designs and pushed the bar further for a performance-driven design that significantly influenced sneaker design for years.

Behind the Design: Nike SB x Air Jordan 4 'Navy'

The Air Jordan 4’s design incorporates key features that have left an indelible mark on the footwear industry. One of its pioneering features is the mesh design, which challenged the convention of closed leather sneakers at the time, revolutionizing the industry by introducing breathability and flexibility while setting new standards for comfort and performance in basketball footwear. The integration of Air cushioning technology in the heel, carried over from the Air Jordan 3, enhances both comfort and performance on the basketball court. This innovation represented a significant advancement in sneaker technology during its era. The Air Jordan 4 further distinguished itself through an innovative lacing system and plastic wing eyelets. These additions enhanced the shoe’s overall lockdown and support, allowing wearers to lace it to their needs. 

Behind the Design: Nike SB x Air Jordan 4 ‘Navy’

Following the massive success of the Nike SB x Air Jordan 4 ‘Pine Green,’ this new ‘Navy’ edition maintains the same skateboarder-friendly upgrades while introducing a clean, versatile colorway. The sneaker features a white leather upper, paired with navy accents on the eyelets, midsole, and Nike SB-branded heel tab. A gum rubber outsole enhances grip and durability, making it more functional for skateboarding while adding a vintage-inspired aesthetic. Nike SB also adjusted the materials and shape to cater to skaters. The toe box is slightly slimmer for improved flick, while the forefoot cushioning is softer, ensuring better board feel. The padded collar offers enhanced comfort, and the classic Nike SB logo replaces the traditional Jumpman or Nike Air branding on the heel.

Behind the Design: Nike SB x Air Jordan 4 'Navy'

Nike SB’s collaboration with Jordan Brand is deeply rooted in skateboarding culture. Though Air Jordans were never originally designed for skateboarding, early skaters in the ’80s and ’90s frequently wore Jordan 1s and 4s due to their sturdy construction and ankle support. Sandy Bodecker, the architect of Nike SB’s success, played a major role in blending basketball and skateboarding worlds under the Swoosh umbrella. This release is a continuation of that legacy of crossover appeal, appealing to both sneaker collectors and skateboarders​. You can find your pair of the Nike SB x Air Jordan 4 ‘Navy’ on KICKS CREW now.

Carsten Alex

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