Can You Skate in the Air Jordan 4?

The Air Jordan 4, one of the most iconic releases in sneaker history, first made its mark during the 1989 All-Star Weekend. Designed by Tinker Hatfield, this sneaker quickly became a cultural phenomenon, thanks in part to Michael Jordan’s legendary game-winning shot against the Cleveland Cavaliers and a memorable appearance in Spike Lee’s Do the Right Thing.

While the AJ4 didn’t introduce groundbreaking technology to the basketball world, it brought something equally important: functionality and a design that resonated deeply with fans. Over the years, it has maintained its relevance, consistently being re-released in coveted colourways and collaborations.

But beyond its place in pop culture, there’s a question that’s piqued the interest of many: can the Air Jordan 4 hold its own in the world of skateboarding? With its robust build and legendary design, skaters are curious to see if this silhouette can transition from the basketball court to the skate park. So, let’s dive right in and check it out!

Is it Designed for Skateboarding?

To answer that question, we need to examine various aspects of the AJ4’s design and performance on the skateboard.

Design

The Air Jordan 4 is undeniably one of the most visually striking Jordan Brand sneakers ever made. Its design, crafted by Tinker Hatfield, is both bold and iconic, making it instantly recognisable on and off the court. The model features a combination of sharp lines, mesh panels, and the distinctive “wings” on the sides, which give it a unique aesthetic that has captivated sneaker enthusiasts for decades.

From a skating perspective, the AJ4’s design elements, like the high collar and substantial heel, contribute to its robust appearance, offering a sense of security and protection. However, the shoe’s bulkier silhouette, while visually appealing, might not be as streamlined as traditional skate silhouettes. The chunky build could potentially hinder quick foot movements, which are crucial for executing technical tricks.

The signature plastic heel tab, a hallmark of the AJ4’s design, adds to its iconic look but can be a double-edged sword for skaters. While it enhances the sneaker’s overall aesthetic, it can also cause discomfort during certain skate movements if it digs into the back of the ankle.

The Air Jordan 4, originally created for the basketball court, features a design that naturally catches the eye of skaters. To assess whether this sneaker is fit for the demands of skateboarding, it’s essential to delve into its key design elements and how they might influence its performance on a skateboard.

Grip, Board Feel, and Traction

The outsole of the Air Jordan 4 features a combination of patterns designed to enhance grip. While the herringbone pattern is a staple across most models, providing solid traction, some AJ4 versions also include additional details like small stars near the toe or circular patterns. These elements not only add to the sneaker’s design but can also offer extra grip during certain skate tricks, such as when dragging or sliding the foot.

However, the AJ4’s Nike Air sole is thicker and more rigid than what you might find in traditional skate shoes. This thickness can impact board feel, which is essential for skaters who need precise control and feedback from their skateboard. The reduced sensitivity due to the cushioned sole might make it harder to perform technical maneuvers with the same level of precision.

Ankle Support

One of the Air Jordan 4’s strong suits is its ankle protection. The high-top design and sturdy construction provide excellent support, which can help prevent ankle injuries during skating. This stability is a significant advantage, particularly for skaters who value safety over agility. The AJ4’s robust build gives a sense of security that lighter, low-cut skate shoes might not offer.

Does the Air Bubble Help?

The Air Jordan 4’s midsole is equipped with a visible Air bubble, a feature that was originally designed to provide extra cushioning and absorb impact during basketball games. For skaters, this cushioning can be a significant advantage, especially when landing from high jumps or absorbing the shock from rough terrain. The Air bubble helps to reduce strain on the feet and joints, making the shoe comfortable for prolonged use.

However, this same cushioning can reduce board feel, which is crucial for skaters. Board feel refers to the ability to sense the skateboard’s movements and the surface beneath it through the soles of your shoes. The Air bubble, while excellent for shock absorption, creates a thicker barrier between the foot and the skateboard. This added thickness and softness can dampen the feedback skaters receive from the board, making it harder to gauge subtle shifts and maintain precise control during tricks.

Does it Have a Removable Insole?

The Air Jordan 4 typically comes with a stock insole that is lightly adhered to the sneaker’s base. In many cases, this adhesive is minimal, allowing the insole to be easily removed by hand. While this makes it possible for skaters to swap out the insole for something more customised, it’s important to note that the AJ4 does not always feature a removable insole by design.

This can be a disadvantage for skaters who prefer to customise their insoles for better comfort or performance. Without the option to easily swap insoles, skaters are limited to the shoe’s original cushioning, which might not meet everyone’s specific needs. Additionally, as the insole wears down over time, there’s no simple way to replace or upgrade it, which could affect the shoe’s comfort in the long run.

What Do Skaters Think?

The Air Jordan 4 has certainly caught the attention of the skating community, but opinions remain mixed. Some skaters appreciate the AJ4 for its aesthetic appeal and ankle support, while others find it falls short in key areas necessary for skateboarding.

One skater noted, “I can feel my feet being crushed by the narrowness of Nikes.” This sentiment is echoed by others who find the AJ4’s fit to be too tight, especially during long skate sessions. The narrow design, typical of many Nike sneakers, may not accommodate the foot movements required for technical tricks, leading to discomfort and even pain over time.

Another skater expressed a different concern, stating, “The skater in me doesn’t see the point. They weren’t made for skateboarding.” This highlights a common critique: the Air Jordan 4, while iconic, was never designed with skateboarding in mind. The sneaker’s bulkier build, combined with its weight and reduced board feel, makes it less than ideal for those who prioritize performance on the board.

However, not all feedback is negative. Some skaters appreciate the AJ4’s robust construction and the added ankle support it provides. One user mentioned, “The AJ4 holds up well. The materials are durable, and the high-top design gives me confidence when I’m going hard on my board.” For skaters who value protection and durability over agility, the AJ4 can be a solid choice.

On the flip side, the sneaker’s weight is a recurring issue. “They’re just too heavy for me. I feel like I’m dragging my feet when I try to pull off quick tricks,” said one skater. This added weight can hinder quick movements and make it more challenging to execute technical tricks that require speed and precision.

The Bottom Line

In summary, while the Air Jordan 4 is undeniably a great-looking and durable sneaker, using it for skateboarding does come with sacrifices. You’ll gain strong ankle support and style, but you’ll lose out on the precision and board feel that are crucial for effective skating. The choice ultimately depends on your priorities, but given the drawbacks, the AJ4 might not be the best fit for serious skaters.

Nike noticed skaters’ interest in the Air Jordan 4 and teamed up with Nike SB to create a version tailored specifically for skateboarding: the Nike SB x Air Jordan 4. This updated version keeps the iconic look of the original AJ4 but introduces several key enhancements designed to improve its performance on the board.

One of the most significant changes is the return to the original ’89 shape around the toe box, offering a better fit and improved flick for skaters. The upper has been deconstructed and made more flexible, with added plastic detailing to enhance suppleness during long skate sessions. Additionally, Nike Air cushioning in the heel helps absorb impact, making it easier to handle big drops and high stair counts. For those who prioritize grip, zonal gum rubber has been added to the outsole, providing extra traction exactly where it’s needed most.

These updates make the SB version more skate-friendly while maintaining the classic AJ4 aesthetic. Although the look remains largely the same, the enhancements significantly improve its functionality for skateboarding. Some skaters might still find it a bit chunky, but the improved fit, flexibility, and grip make it a better option than the standard Air Jordan 4.

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