Jordan brand’s remastered program has brought back the materials and craftsmanship that made MJ’s signature kicks so awesome in the ’80s and ’90s, one retro’d classic at a time. Next year, the Air Jordan IV “Cement”—one of the most notable and sought after colorways of Tinker Hatfield’s design—is getting its turn to return to its original glory. Check out these side-by-side images, that make it clear how 2016’s version is immensely better and more true to the OGs than the 2012 retro.
1. A “Nike Air” logo on the back. After Michael Jordan’s retirement and Jordan brand became its own company, the label stopped using the “Nike Air” logo on sneakers in favor of the Jumpman. However, as a part of the Remastered program, the Swoosh will be making its epic return to the Air Jordan IV.
2. A new old cement color. The gray and black speckled details on the sneaker are what make it special, but the 2012 version was decidedly darker than the originals. 2016’s model will return the color to its proper Pantone.
3. Higher quality leather. In recent years, Jordan has received criticism for cheaping out on leather on retros, this is part of the reason they decided to remaster the kicks in the first place. You can visibly see the grain of the leather in these photos, meaning their softer and less plastic-y than retros past.
The Remastered Air Jordan IV “Cement” hits shelves next February with a retail price of $220.
