Earlier this year, the Nike Air Ship underwent a name change, now being officially known as the Jordan Air Ship. Nike, Inc. has taken advantage of the occasion to release the silhouette in a handful of in-line and collaborative iterations. As a new year approaches, the sneaker has emerged in one of its boldest makeovers yet: a “Realtree Camo” outfit.
Realtree Camo isn’t new to swoosh-branded footwear, but it’s been understandably limited to outdoorsy offerings from the brand. The Jordan Air Ship “Realtree Camo,” however, further expands Michael Jordan’s legacy beyond the basketball court. The iconic print is used for hunting and other fields, making its appearance on a basketball shoe from 1984 strange. Yet, the camouflage pattern speaks to the footwear design’s timelessness. A realistic set of woodland graphics take over the entirety of the sneaker’s leather upper, with smooth brown suede interrupting around the collar and via the profile swooshes. Laces and outsoles underfoot opt for a similar brown tone, complementing the camo print well – in particular the featured leaves.
Remaining branding across the shoe takes on a mix of the aforementioned colors, as well as a light green (“Nike Air” on the tongue). One distinct detail on the impending retro is the “Sweat Blood”-branded hardware on the spine – likely a nod to Jordan’s dedication on-the-court. Lastly, an off white midsole rounds out the ensemble, ironically allowing for a print meant to blend in with its surroundings to revel in the spotlight.
Ejoy detailed photos of the pair ahead, which is expected to hit Nike SNKRS on December 13th. The “Realtree Camo” Air Ship is likely to retail for $140 USD.
For more sneaker news, check out the Air Jordan 4 Bred Reimagined set to release in early 2024.