Released: 1989
The Air Jordan 4, released in 1989, was another Tinker Hatfield masterpiece that pushed boundaries in design, function, and street appeal. It built on the AJ3’s success with more aggressive styling and technical upgrades like mesh panels for breathability, wider lacing support wings, and a visible Air unit in the heel. It was also the first Air Jordan to launch on a global scale.
Michael Jordan wore the AJ4 during the 1988–89 season, a year defined by highlight reels and heartbreak — most notably “The Shot” over Craig Ehlo in the playoffs, a buzzer-beating dagger that cemented MJ as the clutch performer. That moment, captured with Jordan mid-air in the Black/Cement colorway, became one of the most iconic sports images ever.
Design Elements
- First Jordan to feature over-molded mesh panels for ventilation
- Wings on the sides allowed customizable lacing for lockdown support
- Signature plastic heel tab with Jumpman logo
- Visible Air-Sole cushioning in the heel and forefoot
- Released in four OG colorways: White/Cement, Black/Cement (“Bred”), Fire Red, and Military Blue
Key Moments
- “The Shot”: May 7, 1989 — Jordan hits a series-clinching buzzer-beater over the Cavs in the Bred 4s
- 1988–89 NBA season: MJ averages 32.5 PPG, 8 RPG, and 8 APG
- First Air Jordan featured in Spike Lee’s “Do the Right Thing” — the shoe became a cultural icon
Cultural Impact
The AJ4 elevated Jordan’s legacy off the court just as much as on it. Its appearance in Spike Lee’s film and the “It’s Gotta Be the Shoes” campaign featuring Mars Blackmon (played by Lee) cemented its place in sneaker and pop culture history. It was the first Air Jordan to really capture both performance and urban style in equal measure.
Over time, retros like the Cool Grey, Black Cat, and collaborations with Union LA, Off-White, and Travis Scott have made the AJ4 a grail for collectors. It’s a perfect storm of design, nostalgia, and culture — and still sells out decades later.