Sunday, June 8, 2014

Better Jordan Retros are On The Way.

Photo via Sole Collector

And I for one couldn't be any happier. The quality of retro Air Jordans has been a common conversation topic among sneakerheads in recent years. Most collectors agree that details such as the materials and shapes used on the re-releases of classic Jordan signatures don't exactly match up with the originals. That doesn't stop them from flying off shelves on Saturdays, but it's a definite concern given the high price Air Jordan retros command these days. 

In a SoleCollector interview with Dave Shechter (VP of Jordan Footwear) and Jeff Atienza (Jordan Brand Product Line Manager),  it was revealed that "remastered" versions of Air Jordan retros will be available come Spring 2015. In a nutshell, this means that all forthcoming Jordans will be made with better materials and built as faithful to the original construction methods as humanly possible. While there's nothing wrong with better quality products entering the market, consumers will have to brace for a few unwanted effects. 

1. Price
This one was pretty obvious, as the current retail value of a single pair of Air Jordans isn't cheap. With the added costs of new materials, prices are looking to increase anywhere from 10-15%. 

2. Availability
Initially, only shoes in men's sizes will get the "remastered" treatment come next year. Not cool for most of the junior and lady sneakerheads out there. 

As a collector, I appreciate the approach Jordan brand has taken to address the demand for better quality retros. They may get a little pricier, but the promise of better craftsmanship wins out for me in the long run. While sneakerheads have already taken their outrage to the online message boards, I think it's a lesson in disguise for teaching many within the culture to favor quality over quantity. Spending a little more for one pair of good shoes seems inconsequential compared to buying multiples of the same pair albeit made with inferior quality. But just how good the quality will be remains to be seen next year. 

Check out more pictures of the first round of "Remastered" Air Jordan retros after the jump. 
 
Air Jordan IV Retro "Colombia"

Air Jordan VII "French Blue" 

Air Jordan 10 Retro


Air Jordan IV "Oreo"
Photo via The Shoe Game.

Air Jordan 10 Retro "Chicago"
Photo via The Shoe Game.

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