The Air Jordan 12 “Obsidian” is preparing for its return in January 2027, bringing back one of the original colorways from Michael Jordan’s twelfth signature sneaker. Newly surfaced images provide the first detailed look at the upcoming release, confirming a design that closely follows the 1997 original. The sneaker combines a deep navy leather upper with white overlays and French Blue accents, maintaining the familiar color arrangement that defined its previous editions.
SNEAKERS
Jordan Brand first introduced the “Obsidian” during the 1996-97 NBA season, when the Air Jordan 12 entered Michael Jordan’s signature footwear collection. The colorway joined the model’s original lineup in 1997, establishing a navy and white combination that remains closely associated with the silhouette. Its return brings that original design back into circulation after a lengthy absence from the Retro calendar.
The shoe received its first Retro release in 2012, marking its initial comeback following the original launch. Jordan Brand has kept the “Obsidian” away from retail shelves since then, creating a 15-year gap between the previous edition and the upcoming 2027 release. The new version will represent the third major retail appearance of this particular colorway.
Retailer images show the sneaker’s navy leather construction, which covers the main sections of the upper. White leather overlays extend across the lower portion of the shoe, creating the familiar two-tone appearance. Additional French Blue details complete the color arrangement, preserving the visual characteristics of the original design.
The latest images also offer a closer view of the Air Jordan 12’s recognizable construction, including its stitched leather upper and textured overlays. The design maintains the proportions associated with the original model, keeping the focus on its established materials and color placement.
The return also coincides with a broader shift in Jordan Brand’s approach to Retro footwear. During Nike’s recent earnings call, CEO Elliott Hill acknowledged that the company had released excessive quantities of its classic Jordan models. He outlined plans to reduce the volume and frequency of selected Retro launches, following an approach Nike has already begun applying to the Air Jordan 1.
The strategy aims to restore greater control over product availability as Nike adjusts its footwear business. However, the company has provided no specific information connecting these changes to the Air Jordan 12 “Obsidian.” With its anticipated release approaching in January, the sneaker could arrive before the broader reductions affect later launches.
For now, the retailer images offer the clearest indication of what buyers can expect. The Air Jordan 12 “Obsidian” retains its original navy and white design, with a reported January 23, 2027 release at $215. The upcoming edition will bring the colorway back to stores for the first time since 2012.
