Air Jordan 4 Retro 'University Blue'
The April 28th release honors the university where it all started.
The Air Jordan 4 might be the most consequential sneaker silhouette in the Jordan lineup following the Air Jordan 1. Its predecessor, the Air Jordan 3, was so well received that it convinced Michael Jordan to stay with the brand despite his displeasure with the model that came before, the Air Jordan 2. Thus, the Air Jordan 4 would build on the success of the Jordan 3 or lead Jordan Brand down a path of mediocrity. The bar was set high and all eyes were on Tinker Hatfield. But like the rising superstar himself, the visionary designer delivered.
Featuring a mid-cut height for increased mobility, a visible Air sole unit in the heel, additional Air in the forefoot for plush cushioning and a distinct “wings” lacing system for additional heel lockdown, the Air Jordan 4 introduced the “Flight” concept and branding featured on its tongue tag. Over the course of the next year, the silhouette would light up screens big and small, changing the trajectory of sneaker culture forever.
On May 7th, 1989, with Air Jordan 4s on-foot, MJ delivered ‘The Shot,’ among the most iconic clutch moments in NBA history. With three seconds left in the deciding game of the Eastern Conference playoffs, the Bulls were down by one point to the home team Cleveland Cavaliers. During the Bulls’ timeout, Jordan demanded the final play be drawn for him. As the possession went live, MJ toyed with the defense, eventually creating enough space to catch the inbound pass at the right wing, take two dribbles left and, with time expiring, dribble, double clutch, release his jumpshot and make it over forward Craig Ehlo, propelling the Bulls into the second round of the 1989 NBA Eastern Conference playoffs.
The Air Jordan 4 also marked a turning point in pop culture, making an appearance in Spike Lee’s seminal 1989 film Do the Right Thing. Among the most memorable moments in the film is when Buggin’ Out, played by Breaking Bad’s Giancarlo Esposito, gets his brand new Jordan 4s accidentally scuffed by Clifton, played by John Savage, as he’s walking his bike on his way home.
Slated for an April 28th release, the Air Jordan 4 Retro ‘University Blue’ channels the silhouette’s unrivaled legacy, updating the classic model with a suede upper in a familiar hue inspired by Michael Jordan’s UNC alma mater. The premium suede upper is dressed in a bright blue palette, contrasted by a speckled grey and black print on the sneaker’s supportive wings and back heel. Featuring a raised Jumpman icon in black, the sneaker is finished with a secondary Jumpman jock tag-inspired design on the woven tongue tag, typically appearing on the bottom hem of Jordan jerseys.
The Air Jordan 4 Retro 'University Blue' is set to drop on April 28th on the app and GOAT.com.
Air Jordan 4 ‘University Blue’ FAQs
What shoes are similar to the Air Jordan 4 ‘University Blue?'
'University Blue’ has been used as a colorway on other releases across Air Jordan and Nike silhouettes. Recent and upcoming releases in a similar color include the:
Related Articles: Guide to Air Jordan 4s, Guide to Air Jordan Sneakers.