2024 has been a significant year for the Jordan Air Ship line, boasting an array of collaborations and in-line colourways for this rejuvenated silhouette. One anticipated design on the horizon is the Jordan Air Ship, which was created in partnership with the Parisian footwear retailer Opium.
Who is Opium?
Opium Paris has a long-standing relationship with Nike and Jordan Brand, often headlining significant releases in the City of Light and occasionally teaming up to create beautiful sneakers. They are also known for their active participation in the annual Quai54 basketball tournament hosted in the French capital. However, this time around, they’re joining forces with Jordan Brand to offer their unique spin on the Jordan Air Ship.
A Closer Look at the Opium x Jordan Air Ship “Charlotte Hornets”
As with many of the most iconic Jordan colourways, this design finds its roots in Michael Jordan’s illustrious past. The colour scheme pays homage to the Charlotte Hornets, the NBA team in which Jordan held a majority stake for thirteen years before selling his position last year.
The design showcases “Sail” leather as the base, combined with “Black” nubuck on the toe overlays and side Swooshes, while black cracked leather graces the eyestays. The plush nubuck texture then continues around the collar area but switches to a more vibrant “Court Purple” hue.
However, to make this collaboration truly distinct, Opium has added their distinct star embroidery around the heel and lateral toe, both detailed in a “Blue Chill” shade. The heel also showcases an intricate pattern reminiscent of a corporate tie, perhaps a subtle nod to MJ’s off-court role as a businessman.
The tongue labels once again sport a striking purple label boasting “Designed in Charlotte” text, further cementing the shoe’s connection to Michael Jordan’s roots. Additional details include blue “Nike Air” embroidery on the heel and Opium’s logos on the outer heels, rounding off the look.
The entire design sits atop a “Sail” midsole paired with a “Black” rubber outsole, perfectly tying together the shoe’s colour scheme. While we eagerly await more insights into the story behind this colourway, its strong and nostalgic link to Michael Jordan’s legacy is already quite evident.
More About the Jordan Air Ship
The Jordan Air Ship is a cherished piece of sneaker lore. Michael Jordan himself wore this model during his rookie season, setting the stage for the legendary Air Jordan line that followed. Just a glance tells you how influential its design was in paving the way for the iconic Air Jordan 1 model design.
With Jordan Brand’s revival of this storied model, this classic silhouette has become a popular canvas for high-profile collaborations, including partnerships with A Ma Maniere, Awake NY, and Nigel Sylvester. But keep an eye out because there’s undoubtedly much more to come in terms of exciting collaborations and new colourways.
Release Details
Although the Parisian retailer has not yet confirmed the release date, it’s anticipated that the Opium x Air Jordan Ship “Charlotte Hornets” will launch on June 1st, 2024. The sneaker, designed specifically for women, will retail at $150 USD. You can secure your pair from Nike.com and select Jordan Brand retailers like Feature upon its release.
While you wait, why not explore the Travis Scott x Air Jordan 1 “Pink” Collection expected in 2025 or the stunning Air Jordan 3 “Wings” sneakers releasing in 2024? And don’t forget to follow us here at Sneaker Fortress for all the latest sneaker drops and reviews.
How do you feel about the upcoming Opium x Jordan Air Ship collaboration? Share your thoughts on the Charlotte Hornets-inspired design in the comments below!
Opium x Jordan Air Ship “Charlotte Hornets” |
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| SKU / Style Code: FQ8281-100 |
| Retail Price: $150 (women) |
| Release Date: 1st June, 2024 |
| Colours: Sail/Blue Chill-Black-Court Purple |
| Where to Buy: Nike SNKRS |
