Paolo Banchero unveiled the sneaker during the NBA Playoffs.
After debuting on the feet of Paolo Banchero at the start of the NBA Playoffs, the Air Jordan 39 is now ready for launch.
Jordan Brand announced Thursday that the latest model of the Air Jordan series will release next week. The Air Jordan 39 boasts a cleaner look than usual for the franchise but is packed with tech that includes ZoomX foam and Air Zoom paneling. Both technologies are applied at full-length in the midsole, marking the first time it’s ever been done on a basketball sneaker.
“Our values with the Air Jordan 39 came down to things like shape, proportion and stance,” Joël Greenspan, senior design director for Jordan Brand Performance Footwear, said in a press release. “We didn’t want to build a spaceship that was overtly aesthetic. In other words, we didn’t want to make the technology the visual focus of the design. Still, when athletes put on the shoe, we want them to instantly know they’re getting the most premium performance system possible.”
The Air Jordan 39’s upper is made out of an embroidered textile born out of computational design informed by testing at the Nike Sport Research Lab (NSRL). Flex zones bend from changes in direction during cross-steps, and natural leather overlays have been applied in high-stress areas to help contain the forefoot. NSRL testing also led to the outsole’s herringbone pattern getting reinforcements in key areas for changes in direction.
To prevent ankle chafing, the height of the tongue and beveled heel contours were also placed precisely.
The Air Jordan 39 will launch in a white-dominant colorway “Sol” with select red and black accents, and Jordan Brand has previewed an additional eight colorways to through to spring, including the predominantly black Air Jordan 39 “Lumier” inspired by Paris’ night skyline releasing August 6.
The Air Jordan 39 “Sol” releases July 23 through Jordan Brand’s website and select third-party retailers. Pricing is set at $200.
Ian Servantes is a Senior News Editor for Footwear News specializing in sneaker coverage. He’s previously reported on streetwear and sneakers at Input and Highsnobiety after beginning his career on the pop culture beat. He subscribes to the idea that “ball is life” and doesn’t fuss over his kicks getting dirty.
