For Nike SB, sneaker redesigns begin with the needs of the skateboarding community. It tweaks a silhouette to meet their requirements, meaning sturdier materials, more flexible components, and a lighter build, amongst other adjustments. Right now, the sub-line is gearing up to launch its latest flip-and-trick-friendly fix-up in collaboration with fellow Swoosh-owned label Air Jordan: the Nike SB x Air Jordan 4 ‘pine green’.
The amendments begin with the resistant materials that form the upper. There’s the short-hair suede mudguard employed to disguise any blemishes, strategically layered upon a smooth, hard-wearing leather. Atop this cleanable foundation sit resilient, flexible, rubber-like plastic trimmings (the heel tab; the wings; the lace supports) that replace any stiff plastic traditionally implemented, joined by a padded, pliable tongue that provides cushioning and allows room for movement.
Below, the forefoot Air unit found in your typical pair has seemingly been removed or altered to allow skateboarders to better feel the board beneath their feet, complemented by a trimmed insole and improved fit toe box that harks back to pairs from 1989. The outsole has also been modified: both ends boasts gum segments to increase grip and durability.
No Nike collaboration is complete without dual branding, which is why you’ll find a Nike SB emblem on the heel offset by the stitched Jumpman label on the tongue. The box, cream (or ‘sail’) and silver with a glossy finish, is also embellished with the insignia of each sub-line.
A breath of fresh air then, for skateboarders and Jordanheads alike. Especially since the shoe, the first of its kind, arrives in ‘pine green’ – a verdurous hue redolent of outdoor adventures. Hoping to cop? Discover everything you need to know below.
When is the Nike SB x Air Jordan 4 ‘Pine Green’ dropping?
The Nike SB x Air Jordan 4 ‘pine green’ will hit skate shops on Friday 17 March, and Nike and other retailers from Tuesday 21 March.
Where is the Nike SB x Air Jordan 4 ‘Pine Green’ dropping?
The Nike SB x Air Jordan 4 ‘pine green’ will be released first by skate shops such as Rufus, SHRN and Blowout on Friday 17 March.
The following week, the sneaker will drop on END, BSTN, One Block Down, the SNS app, Slam Jam, and, of course, Nike SNKRS (on Tuesday 21 March at 8 am) via raffle.
Naturally, you can already grab a pair of the ‘pine green’ AJ4s on resale marketplaces such as StockX and GOAT.
How much will the Nike SB x Air Jordan 4 ‘Pine Green’ cost?
The Nike SB x Air Jordan 4 ‘pine green’ is priced at £205.
How does the Nike SB x Air Jordan 4 ‘Pine Green’ fit?
Like most Air Jordan 4s, the Nike SB x Air Jordan 4 ‘pine green’ fits true to size.
What sizes does the Nike SB x Air Jordan 4 ‘Pine Green’ come in?
The Nike SB x Air Jordan 4 ‘pine green’ will be available in sizes between UK2.5-UK17.
What laces come with the Nike SB x Air Jordan 4 ‘Pine Green’?
Only one pair of laces comes with the Nike SB x Air Jordan 4 ‘pine green’ – the flat white laces provided with almost all AJ4 releases.
