Kicks: A Very Jordan Weekend

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by Abe Schwadron / @abe_squad

A flurry of Jordan previews hit the web over the weekend, following last week’s Gentry Humphrey news and a pair of interesting new colorways made public debuts. You can check out the full line of November ’11 Jordan Brand releases over at SneakerNews, but until then, here are the details on a fivesome of crucial kicks you might have missed while kicking back after a long work week:

Air Jordan 14 Retro, October 8, $160 (Photo via CounterKicks):

A shoe that’s as performance-driven as it is beautiful, the Jordan XIV is back, baby. Wear ’em to hoop or wear ’em out, but whatever you’re intention, it’s nice to see them back in stores. Had multiple pairs growing up, but the best were the red/blacks, just cold on the court. This “Light Graphite” edition wasn’t an original colorway, but you can bet some Hoyas will be rocking a pair this season.

Air Jordan 8.0, October 8, $150 (Photo via CounterKicks):

MJ wore the original 8s during Chicago’s ’93 playoff run, and instantly became a favorite among sneaker collectors and players alike, combining comfort and a touch of ingenuity. Thankfully, the 8.0 version doesn’t go overboard with new-school infusion like some of its cousins in recent years and months, despite having Flywire technology built in to side panels. We showed you the white/red colorway on Friday, but the black/red’s “point-0” differences are even more subtle.

Air Jordan 10 Chicago, January 21, $160 (Photo via CounterKicks via Kicks-Lab):

Jordan’s 1995 return to the NBA hardwood with the Bulls was memorable for more than his kicks, but in his first game back, it was the Jordan X on his feet then and during his double-nickel game at MSG a few days later. Hard to believe it’s been more than 15 years, huh? Some shoes are timeless, and among the Jordan collection, the X’s rank right up there—and have been especially kind to those looking for performance.

Jordan 1 Flight, November, $100 (Photo via CounterKicks):

CounterKicks describes this one as “Air Jordan 1 as a canvas for Air Jordan III elephant print and Air Jordan IV eyestay styling.” And while all those elements are present, it’s a tough sell and a bit of a puzzling release. Will sneakerheads be excited about the ingredients or turned off by the final product? You be the judge.

Air Jordan 4 “Doernbecher” Superman, Details coming soon (Photo via CounterKicks via MarqueeSole):

A kid-inspired design created to benefit a Portland children’s hospital, these special edition IV’s aren’t out yet for public consumption. But the combination of a child’s imagination and a classic, unaltered Jordan frame to work with produces a flashy but viable everyday sneak. The only wonder is why a Superman shoe has so much kryptonite coloring. Scary.

Jordan Winterized 6 Rings, November, $160 (Photo via CounterKicks):

Sure, sneaker-turned-boot ideas are awkward in theory and usually disappointing in execution, but considering the success of Nike Boots, Jordan’s growth into the winter world of heavy-duty kicks is far from misguided. Actually, the Winterized look—shown here in Charcoal—is clean, sturdy and not trying to do too much.