The Nike SB Jordan 4 is making a return in the 'Navy' colorway, bringing with it a blend of history and style that has left a mark on both basketball and skateboarding culture. Two key aspects make this shoe stand out: its basketball legacy and Steven Cales, one of the most stylish skaters, doing ollie in them. The 'Navy' colorway follows arguably the sneaker of the year, the Nike SB x Air Jordan 4 'Pine Green.'
The History of the Jordan IV
The Air Jordan IV was designed by Tinker Hatfield, one of Nike's most influential designers, known for iconic models like the Huarache, Air Max 1, and Jordan IX. For the Jordan IV, Hatfield built on the success of the Jordan III, keeping the visible air unit while introducing Durabuck synthetic leather and mesh panels for breathability.
Released in 1989, the AJ4 gained cultural significance when Michael Jordan wore the Bred IVs during his famous buzzer-beating shot against the Cleveland Cavaliers on May 7, 1989. Known as 'The Shot,' this moment secured the Bulls' victory and cemented the AJ4 in basketball history. It was a defining moment not just for Jordan's career but for the sneaker itself.
The AJ4 also found a place in pop culture through Spike Lee's 1989 film 'Do the Right Thing,' where the White Cement version was featured in a memorable scene „Your Jordans are Fu**ed up!“
Steven Cales, 26 years ahead.
Adding another layer to the shoe's story, ten years after 'The Shot,' another iconic moment for the shoe happened — Steven Cales, one of the most stylish skaters, ollied over a rail in Jordan IVs in the November '99 issue of Thrasher Magazine, 26 years before mainstream skate culture fully embraced the shoe. Some classic shit.
Photo by Mike O’Meally
Chrome Ball Interview tells the story:
"What about that Venture ad where you’re ollieing that rail in Jordans with that kid standing there?
I was pretty serious into sneakers back then. I never wanted to be in some bum-ass busted skate shoes. I always wanted my gear to be dope, even when I was skating. I remember picking up those Jordans and couldn’t help thinking how they looked so good to probably skate in. Some fat soles… fuck it, let me skate in these. That kid just happened to be passing by at the right time. Completely natural. No set-up or nothing. Crazy, right? That kid made the picture!"
You can get Nike SB Jordan IVs' through Popname’s raffle if you are lucky. If unlucky, you can watch more of Steven Cales' footy and be as cool as him.
Follow us on our IG for more info about upcoming raffle @popname_cz
