It's common knowledge among sneakerheads that Jordan Brand has been steadily releasing more retro versions of their most iconic sneakers in recent years, ranging from the Air Jordan 1 to the Air Jordan 11. While some sneaker enthusiasts prefer to stick to the OG design, it's generally acknowledged that Jordan Brand has been doing a commendable job staying true to the original designs.
However, it appears that Jordan Brand is taking a new direction with their latest releases, the Air Jordan 1 "Lost and Found, the Air Jordan 3 "reimagined" and the rumored to release Jordan 4 "reimagined, are part of their new "REIMAGINED" series. This design approach involves revisiting past classics and interpreting them through different lenses, resulting in a fresh take on the beloved classic sneakers.
Jordan 1 "Lost and Found"
The 'Chicago Lost & Found' Air Jordan 1 Retro High OG revives the iconic 'Chicago' colorway with a fresh narrative twist. The shoe retains its original high-cut shape and features a white leather base with Varsity Red overlays, a black Swoosh, and Wings logo. The padded collar is adorned with cracked black leather, lending it a vintage appearance, while the pre-yellowed midsole adds to the retro vibe.
Moreover, the packaging of the shoe is also part of the 'Lost & Found' story, with a distressed-looking box covered in sale stickers and featuring a differently-colored lid. The inclusion of a receipt implies that the shoes were discovered in an attic or storage space, adding an element of discovery and nostalgia to the experience of owning the shoe.
Jordan 3 "Reimagined"
Taking inspiration from the Air Jordan 1 "Lost & Found" released in November 2022, the upcoming retro version offers an "aged" interpretation of one of the original colorways of the Jordan 3. The Summit White, Cement Grey, Fire Red, and Black hues are featured on both the upper and sole unit, paying homage to Tinker Hatfield's initial design. However, the retro version incorporates a slightly-yellowed finish on the heel panels, mid-foot eyelets, and midsole components, creating a vintage appearance.
In addition, the retro edition replaces the Jumpman logos with "NIKE AIR" text on the spine, emphasizing the reimagined nature of Michael Jordan's third signature model. The inclusion of hang tags and a shoe box further reinforces the Air Jordan's nostalgic nod to the past. The sneakers also incorporate design cues that are closer to the original, adding to the retro appeal.
Jordan 4 "reimagined"
The Air Jordan 4 "Bred Reimagined" is set to join the "Reimagined" series and is expected to release in 2024. This iteration follows in the footsteps of the already reimagined Air Jordan 1 "Lost & Found" and Air Jordan 3 "White Cement Reimagined." While no official images have been unveiled yet, the shoe will reportedly feature a color scheme of 'Black/Cement, Grey/Summit, White/Fire Red.'
Furthermore, the shoe is expected to showcase an aged aesthetic, much like its predecessors. Lastly, rumors suggest that the retro version will also feature the 'NIKE AIR' branding on the heels.
Disclaimer: Please note that this is not an official image of the Air Jordan 4 "reimagined." Instead, it is a picture of an authentic pair from its original release in 1989. But it could potentially serve as inspiration for the 2024 pair.