What to know
- The Air Jordan XXXVIII introduces the X-Plate, a new plate technology derived from the insights of Michael Jordan’s impeccable footwork. The X-Plate, reminiscent of the straps on the Air Jordan VIII, is paired with a radial herringbone traction pattern and a full-length Zoom Strobel unit.
- The upper is made with unique backless embroidery and serves as a canvas to highlight Michael Jordan’s 1993 championship performance.
- The Air Jordan XXXVIII is the most sustainable Air Jordan signature shoe in Jordan Brand history, made with at least 20 percent recycled material by weight.
The signature Air Jordan series is not only the most famous footwear line in basketball history, it is also the basketball line at the forefront of innovation for the next generation of players. The Air Jordan XXXVIII represents the next step in this history, introducing new plate technology that builds on the insights of Michael Jordan’s impeccable footwork. Court mobility and the creation of separation took center stage, with a nod to Jordan’s fadeaway jumper.
Constructed to encourage intricate footwork, the shoe was designed low to the ground to allow players to have greater court feel during pivots, cuts, and defensive slides. The new X-Plate, reminiscent of the straps on the Air Jordan VIII, keep the foot above the arch support during sharp movements. The radial herringbone traction pattern combines with the full-length Zoom Strobel unit and full-length Cushlon 3.0 foam to provide just the right amount of cushioning. The outrigger helps secure the foot in lateral movements. The X-Plate continues a long line of Jordan’s exclusive developments in plate technology, from the Flight Plate to the Eclipse Plate to the IsoPlate.
Backless embroidery on the forefoot area in the upper helps secure the foot. The upper serves as a canvas to highlight Michael Jordan’s performance in the 1993 championship series, in which he averaged nearly 41 points, 8 rebounds and 6 assists with a 50% shooting percentage from the field. The embroidered upper features specific areas that recall these statistics. For example, the 41 cross stitches on the collar represent Jordan’s average of 41 points per game in the series. Three diamonds on the medial side symbolize the Chicago franchise’s third consecutive championship.
Considering all components of the shoe, the Air Jordan XXXVIII is the most sustainable Air Jordan signature shoe in Jordan Brand history, made with at least 20 percent recycled material by weight.
The Air Jordan XXXVIIIs come out in Fundamental colorway on August 18 at jordan.com and selected global retailers.
