In 1989, Michael Jordan, the basketball icon on the verge of securing his first NBA championship, stood to grace the stage of the All-Star Game for the fifth time. It was during this pivotal moment that he unveiled a ground breaking addition to his footwear collection; the Air Jordan 4. Jordan’s electrifying performance not only showcased his unparalleled skill on the court but also underscored his undeniable influence in the realm of footwear. With each explosive dunk and swift move, he left an unforgettable mark, solidifying his status not only as the future of the NBA but also as a trailblazer in the world of athletic footwear.
The iconic “Black Cement” (also known as “Bred”) colourway worn by Jordan during that historic game continues to be appreciated today. Originally introduced in 1989, it made a triumphant return for the shoe’s 10th anniversary in 1999. However, it wasn’t until its third reissue in 2008 that the Jumpman logo replaced the traditional Nike Air branding on the heel. Jordan Brand maintained this variation for the 23rd anniversary release of the “Bred” in 2012 before reverting to the original branding in 2019 for its 30th anniversary.
Jordan Brand unveiled the Reimagined series in 2021, aiming to reinvent classic, iconic Air Jordan models from the past using innovative materials. The initial release, in December 2021, was the Air Jordan 1 “Patent Bred,” which substituted the original leather with a sleek patent leather finish. Nearly a year later, the series continued with the Air Jordan 1 “Lost & Found,” introducing a distinct aged aesthetic. Some mistakenly consider “Lost & Found” as the first Reimagined release, overlooking the “Patent Bred.” Continuing the momentum, in 2023, Jordan Brand introduced the Air Jordan 3 “White Cement Reimagined” and the Air Jordan 1 “Royal Reimagined” as the latest additions to the Reimagined series.
This year, the Jordan Brand has crafted a unique rendition of the classic colorway as part of its innovative “Reimagined” series, which puts a contemporary spin on timeless favourites. Rightly named the “Bred Reimagined,” this version swaps out the traditional nubuck upper for luxurious leather. Nike emphasizes that they have meticulously restored the shoe’s shape, fit, and feel to match the original specifications from 1989 to ensure a classic, OG feel.
