Contents
- 1 First Impressions: Classic Meets Skate-Inspired
- 2 Comfort and Cushioning: Surprisingly Skate-Friendly
- 3 Upper Materials: Solid Build with Skate-Ready Details
- 4 Performance: Not Just for Looks
- 5 Sizing & Fit: True to Size
- 6 Style Points: Modern Edge on a Classic
- 7 Pros & Cons
- 8 Final Thoughts: Worth the Hype?
I’ve always had a soft spot for sneakers that blend performance with iconic design, and the Nike SB x Air Jordan 4 Navy hits that sweet spot like few others. From the moment I cracked open the box, that fresh sneaker smell pulled me in—yeah, I know, it’s a small thing, but it set the tone. This isn’t just a shoe; it’s a statement piece re-engineered for function and flair.
First Impressions: Classic Meets Skate-Inspired
When I first laid eyes on the Nike SB x Air Jordan 4 Navy, I was impressed by how clean and balanced the design felt. The navy upper is understated but elegant, and that subtle pop of red paired with gum rubber on the outsole gives it a unique flavor that separates it from standard Jordan releases. It’s definitely more than just a color swap—it’s a full-on reinterpretation.
Comfort and Cushioning: Surprisingly Skate-Friendly
This is where things got interesting. Unlike traditional Air Jordan 4s, the SB version completely retools the cushioning setup. The forefoot Air unit? Gone. In its place, Nike SB inserted Poron foam, and let me tell you—it’s a game changer.
That Poron gives the forefoot area better board feel and more responsive impact absorption. In the heel, they kept the visible Air unit, which helps with stability and comfort during landings. And then there’s the Dream Cell insole. It’s not my favorite—feels a bit flat—but I easily swapped it out for my go-to Move Baseline insoles for a much better experience.
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Upper Materials: Solid Build with Skate-Ready Details
One of the biggest highlights for me was the upper. Nike used a mix of smooth leather and suede, and while the leather isn’t what I’d call “premium,” it’s definitely soft by Jordan Brand standards. The suede portions are where this shoe shines, especially when you’re actually using them for skating or casual wear—the grip and feel are excellent.
Also worth noting: the tongue mesh and side netting allow for decent breathability, while the modified heel tab and wings feel softer and more forgiving. Gone are those stiff heel tabs that used to bite into your Achilles. This one is more flexible—what I like to call “gummy”—and it feels way more comfortable for everyday wear.
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Performance: Not Just for Looks
Let’s be real—most Air Jordan 4s weren’t built with skating in mind. But the Nike SB x Air Jordan 4 Navy aims to change that. Thanks to the reworked tooling and softer materials, this version is noticeably less clunky than the retros I’m used to.
Now, would I go hoop in these? Probably not. But for light skate sessions or just walking around all day, these hold up surprisingly well. The enhanced forefoot feel makes a big difference, and the added padding around the collar gives a more locked-in experience without suffocating my feet.
Sizing & Fit: True to Size
In terms of fit, these run true to size. I didn’t experience any of the infamous “pinky toe pressure” that some people get with Jordan 4s. There’s a bit more interior padding in this model, which I think helped create a buffer between my foot and those hot spots. Wide footers might still want to try before they buy, but I’d say most people will be fine sticking with their regular size.
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Style Points: Modern Edge on a Classic
The Nike SB x Air Jordan 4 Navy manages to respect the legacy of the Jordan 4 while bringing in modern updates that make it more wearable and functional. The Nike SB branding on the heel tab is subtle but meaningful—it signifies that this isn’t just a retro, but a purposeful remix. It’s only the second time we’ve seen SB branding on a Jordan 4, and I love the direction they’re heading.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Soft Poron forefoot cushioning = better board feel
- Comfortable fit with added padding
- Premium-feeling suede
- Flexible heel tab and lockdown wings
- True to size
Cons:
- Dream Cell insole is underwhelming (but replaceable)
- Not ideal for hooping
- Leather is good, but not “premium”
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Final Thoughts: Worth the Hype?
After putting some solid wear into these, I can confidently say that the Nike SB x Air Jordan 4 Navy is one of the most thoughtful Jordan collaborations in recent years. It doesn’t just look good—it feels good too. Whether you’re skating, walking, or just flexing them casually, this shoe holds up.
If you’re a fan of the Air Jordan 4 but have always wanted something more functional for daily wear or skating, this version is definitely worth considering. It merges performance tweaks with classic Jordan DNA in a way that few collabs manage to pull off.
