The Air Jordan line has famously taken inspiration from the original sneakers Michael Jordan played in when designing the 30s. Starting with the 31, most of the following shoes had a noticeable tie back to the original, with some models having a more obvious OG inspiration than others. The newly unveiled Air Jordan 39 looks closer to a fresh start than any other model within the last decade. Debuted by Paolo Banchero during Game 1 of the NBA Playoffs, the AJ39 tells us that the brand is paying attention to what the younger generation of hoopers is playing in.
Aside from the bold Jumpman on the tongue, the AJ39 looks surprisingly unfamiliar. Everything from the shape to the minimal design looks like Jumpman is returning to basics for its pinnacle sneaker line. While the Air Jordan line is famous for flight, the AJ39 returns to earth with design benefits focused on the ground. Per feedback from athletes, Jordan Brand learned that changing direction is one of the most important moves for modern athletes. For the first time, the same full-length Nike ZoomX cushioning used on Eulid Kipchoge’s Breaking2 Nike Zoom VaporFly 4% is used on an Air Jordan. It sits on a full-length Zoom Air for a responsive sensation underfoot. A rubber outsole that wraps into the mid-foot and TPU offers stability when changing directions.
The Air Jordan 9 makes a subtle appearance on the tongue and mid-foot rubber, where a blown-up version of the AJ9 heel emblem is present. Other design highlights include a herringbone traction pattern and triangular perforations on the vamp that reference changes in direction. Nine colorways will be released from July 2024 through the Spring of 2025 and will feature unique upper materials depending on the colorway.
SOL (RETAIL: JULY 23)
This all-white minimal colorway pays homage to Michael Jordan’s game, which served as the blueprint for greatness. It celebrates the strong foundation laid by the man himself.
LUMIÈRE (RETAIL: AUGUST 6)
Often known as the City of Light, this black and white colorway is a nod to the Parisian lights and the city’s skyline at night.
UNIVERSITY
Paying homage to the MJ’s college days, this light blue colorway is a celebration of the goat and the alumni that came after him.
CROIX
With design cues drawn from the Air Jordan 9, this black and white colorway is inspired by MJ’s moves on the court and iconic cross-step.
BARON
While designed for peak performance on the court, this neutral tri-color colorway takes inspiration from MJ’s first love, paying tribute to his time at bat.
GUO PE
Guo Ailun’s player exclusive AJXXXIX brings back his signature seafoam green color as a symbol for luck and abundance.
HERITAGE
While honoring Michael Jordan’s legacy in Chicago, this iconic red colorway puts a fresh twist on a heritage color scheme.
STYLE
Inspired by MJ’s iconic 90’s style and his phenomenal collection of suits, this colorway embraces the idea that looking good equals feeling good.
NOIR
This sleek black colorway coupled with a gray sole draws inspiration from Michael Jordan’s nickname, “Black Cat”. Reflective of his movements on the court, akin to a feline, MJ exhibited both ferocity and graceful agility.