The Air Jordan 4 Mars Blackmon: A Sneaker That Blends History, Culture, and Style
Introduction
The Air Jordan 4 Mars Blackmon is a special sneaker that honors the teamwork between Nike and filmmaker Spike Lee. Spike played a character named Mars Blackmon in his 1986 movie “She’s Gotta Have It.” This shoe came out as part of the Air Jordan 4 family. It has a black top, red details, and white parts that make it stand out. The shoe was inspired by how Mars Blackmon helped make Jordan sneakers popular through Nike’s famous TV ads. Each pair has special Mars Blackmon designs on them. With soft cushioning and strong materials, this shoe isn’t just comfortable—it’s also a piece of sneaker history that many collectors want. Every time you wear these shoes, you’re stepping into a story about sports, movies, and style.
Release Information
Release Date: July 22, 2006
Colorway: White/Varsity Red-Black
Retail Price: $115
Style Code: 308497-162
Review
The Air Jordan 4 Mars Blackmon celebrates both sneakers and movies in one cool package. This shoe is based on Spike Lee’s character from his movie and the famous Jordan TV commercials they made together. The shoes have a black leather top with bright red and white colors that really stand out. They have “Mars” written on the back, which makes them special. The shoe’s mesh sides and Air cushion make them comfy to wear, just like other AJ4 models. Some people might think the colors are too bright for everyday wear, but collectors and Jordan fans love them because they tell a unique story about basketball and movies.
Air Jordan 4 Mars Blackmon Features
The Air Jordan 4 Mars Blackmon, a special edition colorway of the iconic shoe, was released on July 22, 2006, for $115. This shoe is a tribute to Mars Blackmon, a character played by Spike Lee in Nike commercials.
Features:
- Colorway: White/Varsity Red/Black
- Upper Material: Leather
- Technology: Air
- Designer: Tinker Hatfield
- Unique Feature: Mars Blackmon’s silhouette on the lateral heel
Current Market Price:
The average sale price varies on the resale market, with prices ranging from approximately $248 to $445 over the last year.
Where to Buy:
You can find the Air Jordan 4 Mars Blackmon on secondary market platforms like:
- StockX: Known for verified products and competitive pricing.
- GOAT: Offers buyer protection and curated styles.
- Flight Club: Another popular platform for buying and selling sneakers.
- Sneaker resale groups and forums: These may also have listings for the shoe.
Frequently Asked Questions about Air Jordan 4 Mars Blackmon
When was the Air Jordan 4 Mars Blackmon originally released?
The Air Jordan 4 Mars Blackmon was originally released on July 22, 2006.
What is the design inspiration behind the Air Jordan 4 Mars Blackmon?
This special edition pays tribute to the Mars Blackmon character played by filmmaker Spike Lee, who featured in Nike Air Jordan commercials during the 1980s and 1990s. The shoe features Mars Blackmon’s silhouette logo on the heel tab with his signature round glasses.
What are the main colorways of the Air Jordan 4 Mars Blackmon?
The shoe features a predominantly white leather upper, with black accents on the heel tab, midsole part, and under the mesh netting. Red accents appear on the collar, tongue lining, parts of the outsole, and Jumpman logos on the heel and tongue, creating a vibrant contrast.
How much did the Air Jordan 4 Mars Blackmon retail for at launch?
At retail, the Air Jordan 4 Mars Blackmon was priced at $115 when it launched in 2006.
Why is the Mars Blackmon edition considered special or collectible?
The Air Jordan 4 Mars Blackmon is special because it honors Spike Lee’s iconic character from the Air Jordan marketing campaigns of the late 1980s and early 1990s. This model also stands out due to its unique logo and strong cultural significance, making it a coveted collector’s item today.
What is the significance of Spike Lee’s Mars Blackmon character in relation to this sneaker?
Spike Lee’s Mars Blackmon was a key figure in promoting Air Jordans in memorable commercials and films like “Do the Right Thing.” This sneaker pays homage to that cultural legacy by featuring his character’s logo and redesigning a classic silhouette connected to those campaigns.
Are there any notable features or details unique to the Air Jordan 4 Mars Blackmon?
Yes, the sneaker uniquely displays the Mars Blackmon silhouette logo on the heel tab, which differentiates it from other Air Jordan 4 colorways. Its color scheme and detailed homage to Spike Lee’s character make it a distinctive release.
What is the current market value or resale price range for the Air Jordan 4 Mars Blackmon?
Recent resale prices typically range between $248 and $445, depending on size and condition, reflecting its status as a sought-after retro release.
Has the Air Jordan 4 Mars Blackmon been re-released or retroed since 2006?
With the original release in 2006, this version has been a collector’s item, and while Jordan Brand has revisited Air Jordan 4 designs, the Mars Blackmon edition itself remains a distinct 2006 retro with no widely known official re-release identical to the original.
What materials are used in the construction of the Air Jordan 4 Mars Blackmon?
The Air Jordan 4 Mars Blackmon features a leather upper, a nylon mesh, and a rubber sole for durability and comfort.
Conclusion
The Air Jordan 4 Mars Blackmon represents more than just a sneaker – it’s a cultural milestone that bridges sports, film, and fashion. With its unique design elements honoring Spike Lee’s memorable character and its place in sneaker history, this shoe continues to captivate collectors and enthusiasts years after its initial release. Whether you’re a longtime Jordan fan, a film buff, or simply appreciate thoughtful design with cultural significance, the Mars Blackmon edition offers a compelling blend of nostalgia and style that few other sneakers can match.
Looking to add the Air Jordan 4 Mars Blackmon to your collection? Share your thoughts about this iconic sneaker in the comments below!
