Every Air Jordan has its own history, its own story. Mike’s 63-point game in the AJ I, or The Shot in the AJ IV, or any number of other moments and performances that come to mind when you see a certain sneaker from the Jordan line. Each time a retro release hits retail shelves, those memories come flooding back. And with Jordan Brand’s Retro Remaster initiative, the hope is to not only bring back the memories, but as close to the original kicks, too.
In the coming months, that will include the Air Jordan VI Retro “Maroon” (December 5) and the AIr Jordan IV (February 2016) with details that match the original versions, most notably for sneakerheads: the Nike Air heel logo.
Scroll through the photos above for a closer look at theRetro Remaster process. Here are even more details, straight from Jordan:
Jordan Brand launched the Retro Remaster initiative in Spring 2015. In response to consumer feedback, it incorporates enhanced color options, cushioning, materials and shapes while retaining each shoe’s original character. The brand continues to evolve the remastering process by reintroducing the Nike Air logo on the heels of storied silhouettes. The decision, which honors original designs like never before, was approved by Michael Jordan and debuts this weekend on the Air Jordan 6 Retro “Maroon.” The Air Jordan 4 Retro “Cement,” which drops next February, will receive the same treatment.
When it comes to recreating Jordan favorites, Vice President of Jordan Footwear, Yuron White, mentions color and materials as being extremely important. “The Retro Remaster initiative brought us to an incredible place last year,” he explains. “While we were focused on the external appearance of the shoe and being historically accurate in year one, we are now diving into the internal part: innovation of the fit, feel and comfort of the shoes.”
To ensure every aspect of a Retro is accurate, Jordan Brand Footwear Team turn to the Nike Archives, sourcing original shoes to check finishes, leather texture, temper and even thread color. But getting the color and materials right doesn’t mean anything without the final step: development and production. Currently, there are dedicated factory lines and factory groups working exclusively on Jordan Retros, which are crafted with unprecedented attention to detail.
