Air Jordan 39 FIRST IMPRESSIONS & On Feet Review
Howto & Style
Introduction
Today, Jordan Brand launched their latest flagship performance basketball sneaker, the Air Jordan 39. I decided to pick up a pair from Foot Locker to give them a closer look. Typically, I am less enthusiastic about new Air Jordan models, often perceiving them as minor tweaks to older versions. However, this one is based on one of my all-time favorite performance basketball sneakers—the Air Jordan 29.
I hadn't seen the Air Jordan 39 in person yet, only videos. Walking into Foot Locker, they had my size (N9), and without trying them on (which I wouldn’t recommend), I purchased them. I wanted to provide an honest first impression of this signature basketball sneaker.
The Box
The box is mostly white with an interesting cross-hatch texture. It features a debossed Jordan and Jumpman logo in the center and an unusual print that reads "Air Jordan type 39." Interestingly, it also has a debossed Nike Air logo on the side, which isn't typical for newer Air Jordan models. The size tag confirms it is the Air Jordan 39, and I got the first launch colorway, which is white, University Red, and black.
Unboxing
Opening the box, the unique paper caught my eye. It has a pressed texture that seemingly says "29" repeatedly. Upon pulling out the sneakers, they look better in person. The launch colorway, dubbed "Sole," is white, University Red, and black. Although simple and minimal in construction, this shoe introduces a new cushioning setup that I am eager to test.
First Impressions
Examining the sneakers, there are intricate details like a mirrored image tag on the right shoe. Retailing for $ 200, I accidentally paid $ 215 at Foot Locker—likely a pricing issue. The design is inspired by the Air Jordan 29, which is a favorite of mine. This isn't a performance review but a first impression and material review.
The most exciting element for me is the cushioning. It features bottom-loaded full-length Zoom Air, encased in ZoomX foam within the rubber midsole and outsole for stability. This setup promises amazing underfoot feel, and I am considering wearing these casually if they prove comfortable on the court.
Trying on the Air Jordan 39
I was eager to try these on, especially for the cushioning. Wearing my brand new Apothecary socks, I tried them on, and they fit true to size. If you're a wider-footer, consider going up half a size. The initial comfort is good—not the softest, but solid for basketball use. The shoe feels broken in from the start, which is a significant plus. The bounce from the Zoom Air unit is noticeable, but the containment of the foam might affect its compression slightly, likely for stability reasons.
Design Details and Material Review
The Air Jordan 39 encompasses thoughtful design influenced by the Air Jordan 9 and Air Jordan 29. Michael Jordan was notably involved in this model's design, emphasizing a broken-in feel and minimal construction. The shoe features a ballistic mesh upper with an embroidered pattern, also inspired by wear test samples. There are elements designed to enhance specific moves like Michael Jordan's cross step.
Material-wise, it combines ballistic mesh with leather elements for durability and aesthetics. The cushioning setup integrates bottom-loaded Zoom Air encased by ZoomX foam for an impressive underfoot feel. The outsole traction pattern is a cross-hatched herringbone, and there are subtle nods to the Air Jordan lineage.
Conclusion
In summary, the Air Jordan 39, while not revolutionary, brings together effective design elements that make it a strong contender for both performance and casual wear. They released on July 23rd at $ 200, and are readily available. If you are considering a pair or have thoughts about the upcoming colorways, feel free to share in the comments.
Keywords
- Air Jordan 39
- Performance basketball sneaker
- Foot Locker
- Launch colorway
- Michael Jordan
- Zoom Air
- ZoomX foam
- Ballistic mesh upper
- Design details
- Cross-hatched herringbone
FAQ
Q: What is the inspiration behind the Air Jordan 39?
A: The Air Jordan 39 draws inspiration from the Air Jordan 29 and the Air Jordan 9, featuring elements for enhanced performance and comfort.
Q: How much does the Air Jordan 39 cost?
A: The retail price of the Air Jordan 39 is $ 200.
Q: How does the cushioning in the Air Jordan 39 work?
A: It features a bottom-loaded full-length Zoom Air unit encased in ZoomX foam, all within a rubber midsole and outsole for stability.
Q: How does the Air Jordan 39 fit?
A: The Air Jordan 39 fits true to size. If you have wider feet, consider going up half a size.
Q: What are the materials used in the Air Jordan 39?
A: The shoe uses a ballistic mesh upper with leather elements and a unique embroidered pattern inspired by wear tests. The midsole consists of ZoomX foam and a rubber outsole.
Q: What is unique about the outsole traction pattern?
A: The outsole features a cross-hatched herringbone pattern designed to provide grip and stability on the court.
Q: Are there any special design elements in the Air Jordan 39?
A: Yes, elements like the embroidered pattern on the upper and discreet nods to the Air Jordan 9, such as the triangles on the toe, add unique design flairs.