The Air Jordan 38 marks the latest addition to Michael Jordan’s signature line of performance sneakers. In this article, we will provide a comprehensive guide (everything you need to know) to the twelve best Air Jordan 38 sneaker colourways released.
Air Jordan 38 History
As Jordan Brand continues to power on and show no signs of slowing down, we’re happy to have the latest edition of the iconic line of sneakers. Released in the third quarter of 2023, the Air Jordan 38 is a performance-focused shoe that takes its spiritual inspiration from the Air Jordan 8 and Michael Jordan’s legendary performance in the NBA championship run of 1993. This was the year his team, the Chicago Bulls, won their third championship in a row, a feat referred to as a three-peat. This would be the first of two, with the second happening after their win in 1998.
Diving briefly into some of the technical and design aspects of the sneaker, the 38 is inspired by Michael Jordan’s moves on the court, particularly his footwork. It’s built low to the ground for a better feel and introduces a unique X-plate technology to keep the wearer’s foot in place, especially during active movement. That’s why you’ll find a top NBA talent like the Los Angeles’ Lakers’ Rui Hachimura proudly attaching their names to this shoe (you’ll see his name on our list) – it’s a reliable performer.
The sneaker is also comfy and grippy, thanks to a particular cushioning unit and a herringbone pattern on the bottom. The stitching on the front shows his points per game average – an incredible 41 per game during the series – and the diamonds on the side represent the three-peat. With sustainability becoming such an essential part of what companies have to consider nowadays, it’s also great to know that one of the selling points of this shoe is that, according to Nike, the Air Jordan 38 “is the most sustainably made Air Jordan signature shoe in Jordan Brand history, made of at least 20-percent recycled material by weight”.
Below is the list of the colourways we know about so far, in order of release from the latest to the earliest. Where possible, we also indicate the price.
RELATED: Nike Introduces The Air Jordan 38 “FIBA”
1. Air Jordan “Bugs Bunny”
These sneakers boast exceptional performance features alongside a stylish design. The translucent rubber sole offers a superior court grip, while the tri-coloured white, red, and grey midsole adds a touch of modern flair. The upper, constructed from a white and black material with geometric patterns, delivers a visually striking aesthetic. Red accents and white laces complete the look, creating a clean and professional appearance. Further enhancing the brand identity, the tongue features a red and grey Jumpman logo. They were spotted on the feet of New Orleans Pelicans star Brandon Ingram before their release, which is expected to be in the spring of this year.
Release: Spring 2024
Price: $200
2. Air Jordan 38 “Year of the Dragon”
Initially referred to as the “Chinese New Year” and in commemoration of the Year of the Dragon, this model boasts a predominantly “Cedar” burgundy upper constructed from a blend of suede, mesh and textile materials for a comfortable feel. The deep red is complemented by subtle “Light Pumice” and “Sail” accents, while the laces pop in an “Oil Green” colour, which can also be found on the laces, tongue lining, and a portion of the midsole. Continuing with the celebratory theme, a metallic gold Jumpman logo sits on the tongue in a matching metallic gold circle. This motif is mirrored on the insoles, confirming the shoe’s special edition status. This Air Jordan 38 celebrates the Lunar New Year with its design elements and maintains its commitment to performance excellence.
Release: January 24, 2024
Price: $200
3. Air Jordan 38 Low “Fresh Start”
This one was the Low “Coconut Milk” before it became official, but it chooses to mark a new beginning with a seasonal iteration that evokes the spirit of renewal usually associated with spring. The upper, constructed from synthetic leather, boasts a clean “Coconut Milk” colourway. Woven textile panels placed on the side panels introduce textural variation and visual interest. Delicate pink embroidery can be found on the midfoot, collar, and heel, seamlessly complementing the beautiful, soft pink laces. The plush collar and tongue are lined in a pink textile, each featuring the iconic Jumpman logo. This shoe has ‘spring’ written all over it with its light and airy aesthetic.
Release: January 23, 2024
Price: $175
RELATED: Air Jordan 38 Low “Torch” – Olympic Greatness
4. Air Jordan 38 Low “Fundamental”
The Low “Fundamental” is aesthetically stunning and functional, catering to style-conscious and performance-driven athletes. Its upper offers a combination of durable black synthetic nubuck and breathable woven panels, ensuring comfort and support during dynamic movements. The design incorporates subtle black embroidery details across the midfoot and heel, exuding a refined touch. Vibrant “Siren Red” accents on the interior lining and Jumpman tongue branding make for a dynamic pair of sneakers. In terms of performance, the shoe boasts a top-notch cushioning system featuring a full-length Zoom Strobel unit, a lightweight Phylon midsole, and a layer of Cushlon 3.0 foam. That means exceptional responsiveness and impact absorption, essential requirements for athletes (and athletic types) requiring optimal court performance. The translucent rubber outsole offers reliable traction on various court surfaces.
Release: January 9, 2024
Price: $175
5. Air Jordan 38 “Guo Ailun”
Following last year’s white and jade Air Jordan 37 Player Exclusive for Chinese basketball star Guo Ailun, the Jumpman brand revisits this colour scheme with the Air Jordan 38. The design maintains a clean white upper as the base, introducing a unique twist via a jade-green hue. This verdant shade accents the iconic Jumpman logo and a dedicated heel panel, each echoing the “Ailun” and “Jumpman” branding on the left and right shoes. To take this even further, the base layer of the upper transitions into a vibrant blue, with matching sections on the midsole. The jade green extends onto the sole unit, complemented by pops of yellow for an energetic and distinctive aesthetic.
Release: Fall/Holiday 2023
Price: $200
6. Rui Hachimura x Air Jordan 38
Also known as the Rui Hachimura Toyama Prefecture, the Rui Hachimura x Air Jordan 38 is the culmination of a growing relationship between Jordan Brand and the young player. He’s been a critical figure in Jordan Brand’s promotional campaigns since signing with them alongside Jayson Tatum in 2019. While awaiting his signature shoe, Hachimura has consistently collaborated with the brand to design Player Exclusives (PEs) based on the latest Air Jordan models. This 38 pays homage to his Japanese heritage, featuring a predominantly grey upper with tonal patterns adorning the heel. A subtle floral print graces the collar, while red accents energise the design, appearing on the piping and the interior tongue, which also features Hachimura’s logo embroidered in black. The heel showcases a classic black Jumpman logo positioned above a sole unit that incorporates a speckled black and red blend, further enhanced with a semi-translucent jade green hue.
Release: December 2023
Price: $210
RELATED: The Air Jordan 38 “Celebration” Is The Perfect Christmas Sneaker
7. Air Jordan 38 “Aqua”
The “Aqua” blends black, true red, bright concord, aquatone, university gold, and flint grey. Staying true to its “Aqua” moniker, the shoe features chenille tongue tags, a signature element of the Air Jordan 8, embroidered onto a sleek black upper. Gold-yellow accents that grace the inner lining and peek through the semi-translucent outsole add a touch of sophistication. This hint of gold further complements the X-plate tech embedded within the sole.
Release: December 7, 2023
Price: $200
8. Air Jordan 38 “Celebration”
What hasn’t been said about His Airness’ tremendous accomplishments? In another salute to all-time greatness, the Air Jordan 38 “Celebration” commemorates the Chicago Bulls’ triumphant 1993 championship season, marking Michael Jordan’s third consecutive championship title. This limited-edition release draws design inspiration from both the Bulls’ championship uniforms and the Air Jordan 8. And that’s all she wrote. This one has earned its place in authentic sneakerhead collections.
Watch our unboxing video for the Air Jordan 38 “Celebration” below:
Release Date: November 7, 2023
Price: $200
9. Air Jordan 38 “Fadeaway”
The Air Jordan 38 “Fadeaway” colourway pays homage to Michael Jordan’s signature fadeaway jumper, a move etched into basketball history. The upper boasts a sophisticated gradient of blues, transitioning from a light “Marine” to a deeper “Astronomy Blue,” reminding hoopers of a flawlessly executed shot. This tranquil aesthetic is punctuated by contrasting accents of “Flash Crimson,” a robust red that’s all about the passion and intensity Jordan brought to the game. This limited-edition release not only celebrates Jordan’s iconic move but also serves as a testament to his enduring legacy and work ethic while on the floor.
Release Date: October 17, 2023
Price: $200
10. Air Jordan 38 WMNS “Center Star”
The “Center Star” release celebrates the WNBA in a vibrant and eye-catching manner. Featuring a monochromatic, court-ready design in a striking orange hue, this limited-edition release incorporates reflective stars dispersed throughout the upper, bringing to mind a celestial aesthetic. Furthering the thematic connection, the left shoe’s tongue proudly displays the WNBA logo instead of the traditional Jumpman emblem, while a classic black Jumpman appears on the heel. This unique design is not only a functional piece of athletic footwear but a symbolic tribute to the talent and passion of the WNBA.
Release Date: September 25, 2023
Price: $200
11. Air Jordan 38 “FIBA”
Recognising basketball’s growing popularity worldwide, this shoe is unique in its tribute to the Fédération Internationale de Basketball (FIBA), the international governing body for basketball. While the exterior sports a clean and sophisticated white aesthetic, a subtle yet impactful detail awaits. The insoles come alive with a vibrant array of colours, reflecting the diverse and dynamic nature of the FIBA logo. This design symbolises FIBA’s global reach and the unifying power of the sport it oversees, fostering international collaboration and competition on the court.
Release Date: September 7, 2023
Price: $200
12. Air Jordan 38 “Fundamental”
As the first shoe in the line to launch, this one should have a special place in sneakerheads’ hearts. The “Fundamental” edition is a masterful fusion of performance and style, catering to athletes prioritising functionality and fashion. Its upper has a breathable, black Lenoweave knit base, offering comfort and support during dynamic movements. This foundation is further enhanced by a thick collar that provides crucial ankle stability. The design incorporates intricate patterns on both sidewalls, layered beneath white leather panels, creating an interplay of textures and making for a premium aesthetic. “Siren Red” accents placed throughout the shoe pay homage to the heritage of the Bulls, and the Jumpman logo leaves no doubt about the shoe’s origins. We also have a sculpted midsole that merges with an icy blue outsole. This combination enhances the shoe’s visual appeal and ensures exceptional performance on the court.
Release Date: August 18, 2023
Price: $200
Of these colourways, which Air Jordan 38 is your favourite? Let us know in the comments.
If you’re looking for a guide to every Air Jordan Sneaker Release (1 to 38), we’ve got you covered, too.
