To think that Michael Jordan played his first professional game over 35 years ago is dumbfounding. On the contrary, what may be even more astonishing is that His Airness has had a new set of signature kicks roughly every season since then, ultimately managing to keep the Air Jordan line alive for years after his (second) retirement. With the Air Jordan XXXVII, Jordan Brand dials the clock back to 1992, taking cues from the classic AJ7.
By fusing modern performance tech, loads of research, and an onslaught of Jordan highlights, Nike’s Sport Research Lab managed to put together a shoe built to take on the three stages of jumping. From crash to load to launch, the latest silhouette might be the closest you can get to finally being like Mike. To enhance the crash stage, the shoe’s heel boasts proprietary Formula 23 foam encased in a TPU mold, practically serving as a landing pad for whenever you take off. Next, the load stage is bettered by a stability-boosting carbon fiber midfoot shank.
Last, but not least, the launch stage is amplified thanks to a Zoom Air unit within the forefoot for an added boost. The shoe’s composition is also remarkably innovative, crafted from a strong yet pliable yarn called Arkema. As far as looks are concerned, the 37 combines inspiration from the iconic Air Jordan VII with the artisanal craftsmanship of West African blanket weaving. Seeing as Jordans have become something of a grail in the fashion community, it’s easy to forget that these shoes are intended for basketball, but this pair serves as a grand reminder.
The Air Jordan 37 is set to release in two styles. While the Beyond Borders colorway is expected to release in September, the nostalgia-inducing Hare palette will hit shelves (and apps) later in the fall.
