Jordan introduces the Air Jordan 4 Retro Imperial Purple, a release built around purple and gold tones associated with the Los Angeles Lakers. These colors carry deep recognition within basketball culture, and Jordan Brand has returned to similar palettes in previous Air Jordan 4 releases. The 2019 Air Jordan 4 Court Purple introduced purple accents across a white leather base, while the Air Jordan 4 Lightning, first released in 2006 and reissued in 2021, used bright yellow as its dominant tone.
SNEAKERS
The sneaker, also known as the Air Jordan 4 Retro Lakers, features a premium nubuck upper finished in Imperial Purple. The matte surface emphasizes the sculptural shape that defines the Air Jordan 4. Black TPU support wings anchor the midfoot and connect directly to the lace system, preserving the structural design introduced in 1989. Breathable mesh netting appears on the quarter panels and tongue, allowing airflow while contributing to the layered construction. The heel tab carries Nike Air branding in golden yellow, a detail associated with early Air Jordan 4 releases. A woven tongue label displays a matching yellow Jumpman logo, continuing the Lakers-inspired color direction.
The midsole uses a two-tone polyurethane construction finished in black and white. This component stabilizes the foot while maintaining the silhouette’s original profile. A visible Max Air unit appears in the heel with a yellow tint, delivering impact absorption. Yellow accents extend into the outsole, linking the sole unit with the upper palette. These elements create continuity between upper, midsole, and outsole.
Performance features remain tied to the Air Jordan 4’s basketball origin. Nike released the silhouette in 1989, designed by Tinker Hatfield as the successor to the Air Jordan 3. The model introduced mesh ventilation panels and molded TPU lace wings, allowing players to adjust lace tension and secure their fit. Visible Air cushioning absorbed impact during on-court play. Michael Jordan wore the Air Jordan 4 during the 1988–89 NBA season.
Jordan Brand will release the Air Jordan 4 Retro “Imperial Purple” on March 7, through Nike and select retailers. Men’s pairs retail for $220, with Big Kids at $165, Little Kids at $105, and Toddler sizing at $90.
Model: Nike Air Jordan 4 Retro Imperial Purple
Colorway: Imperial Purple/Multi-Color-Multi-Color
SKU: FV5029-500
Price: 220.00 USD
Release Date: March 7
Available at: Nike and select retailers
