The original Air Jordan 4 “Thunder” was released in 2006 as part of the Jumpman’s L’Style line. It took inspiration from Michael Jordan’s motorcycle racing team and was the counterpart to the “Lightning” colorway. In the nearly two decades between its release and retro, the Thunder AJ4 became a nostalgic classic that sneakerheads begged the brand to bring back. But before Jordan Brand brought the OG Thunder out of the vault in 2023, it added a red twist to the distinct color blocking. The 2022 Air Jordan 4 “Red Thunder” was a hit, especially with the youth. It could be argued that the popularity of the Red Thunder is more responsible for the interest of the upcoming “White Thunder” than the OG Yellow version.
The White Thunder continues the successful formula by swapping the original yellow for white and sticking with a smooth black nubuck base. Jordan Brand is dropping this colorway in full family sizing, just like the last two Thunder releases. The newfound love for the Thunder series from an audience that wasn’t even born in 2006 is a great sign for Jordan Brand. Many popular releases rely on Michael Jordan moments or sneakerhead nostalgia to create hype. While the Red and White Thunders are descendants of a 2000s favorite, much of their demand comes from an all-new audience.
Last Thanksgiving, I was talking sneakers with my younger family members and was asked if I was going to buy the “Jordan 4 Panda.” As you might imagine, I was both confused and amused. By late 2023, the Nike Panda had already been memed and restocked to death, so I didn’t expect someone to use that nickname for a new sneaker they wanted. My teenage nephew was referring to the “White Thunder” AJ4 that leaked a year early. It was eye-opening that a new age of sneakerheads already had that release on their radar and were oblivious to the Panda hate. It told me that teenage Gen Z and Alphas were developing their own lingo, grails, and sources of inspiration. When the Air Jordan 4 White Thunder releases this weekend, it won’t just be teenagers who get their hands on it. It’s a clean AJ4 colorway with excellent materials and a history that matters to OGs. The interest from multiple generations will earn it a spot on many top ten lists come the end of the year. The Air Jordan 4 White Thunder releases August 24 at 7 AM PST for $215. Secure your pair by entering the 20 raffles currently open in the free DROPS By SoleSavy app.
