What I Really Think About Air Jordan 4 Infrared
Let me be honest with you. The moment Nike announced the Air Jordan 4 Infrared, I felt that familiar rush of excitement mixed with skepticism. After years of collecting sneakers, I’ve become somewhat cautious about new colorways. But these? They grabbed my attention right away.
The Air Jordan 4 has always held a special place in sneaker culture. First released in 1989, it carries a heritage that few other shoes can match. Its distinctive side panels, mesh details, and visible Air unit make it instantly recognizable. The new Infrared edition builds on this classic foundation with a color scheme that’s both bold and wearable.
First Impressions Matter
When I first saw these shoes in person, the contrast between the black base and bright infrared accents jumped out at me. The design team didn’t just splash color randomly – they used it strategically on the support wings, eyestays, and parts of the midsole. This thoughtful approach makes the shoe pop without looking overdone.
The materials? Pretty solid. The black premium leather upper feels substantial, not flimsy like some recent releases. The infrared accents stand out clearly against the darker background. It’s a smart color combination that works well in different lighting conditions.
How They Compare to Other AJ4s
I’ve owned several Jordan 4 models over the years, including the Bred, White Cement, and Cool Grey colorways. The Infrared version sits comfortably alongside these classics. It’s not trying to reinvent the wheel, but it brings enough fresh energy to feel worthwhile.
What sets these apart is how the infrared shade creates a modern twist on the silhouette without straying too far from what makes the AJ4 great. They remind me slightly of the “Toro” 4s with their punchy color accents, but with a completely different mood.
Comfort and Wearability
After wearing them for several days, I can say these feel like typical Jordan 4s – which means good but not amazing comfort. The Air cushioning provides decent support, and the padded collar feels nice around the ankle. Not running-shoe comfortable, but perfectly fine for daily wear.
The black-based colorway makes these surprisingly versatile. They work with jeans, shorts, and even some casual pants. The infrared pops just enough to add interest to simple outfits without overwhelming them.
Are They Worth Your Money?
At the standard Jordan brand price point (around $200), these aren’t cheap shoes. Are they worth it? That depends on what you’re looking for.
If you want a Jordan 4 with some character that isn’t just another retro of an original colorway, these hit the mark. The quality seems on par with other recent Jordan releases – not peak craftsmanship, but solid enough to justify the price tag.
For collectors, these might not reach the grail status of OG colorways, but they represent a nice addition to any collection. For casual fans looking for a standout sneaker, the infrared details provide just the right amount of flair.
Final Thoughts
The Air Jordan 4 Infrared strikes a good balance between honoring the classic silhouette and offering something fresh. They’re not groundbreaking, but they don’t need to be. Sometimes a well-executed colorway on a proven design is exactly what’s needed.
Whether you’re a dedicated sneakerhead or someone just looking for a quality pair of Jordans with some personality, these are worth considering. Just don’t wait too long – history shows that appealing AJ4 colorways don’t stay on shelves forever.
