One of the more unique Air Jordan collections of the 2010s will continue its comeback this fall with the return of the “Fear” Air Jordan 4 Retro.
Originally released in August 2013 alongside similarly themed Air Jordan 3s and Air Jordan 5s, the Air Jordan 4 Retro “Fear” was part of a three-sneaker series which were released individually.
While some accounts of the throwback pairs connect the concept to Michael Jordan’s ability to strike fear into an opponent, the story behind this collection is actually hidden on the original insoles of the shoes. Each shoe featured a left insole reading “I’m scared of what I won’t become” with “and you’re scared of what I could become” appearing on the right.
The quote comes from a 2008 Jordan Brand commercial dubbed “Look Me in the Eyes” from the brand’s “Be Legendary” campaign. In an ad narrated by Jordan himself and starring brand athletes including Derek Jeter, Carmelo Anthony and Chris Paul, the former Chicago Bulls legend sends an inspirational message.
“Look me in the eyes,” Jordan said in the commercial. “It’s okay if you’re scared. So am I, but we’re scared for different reasons. I’m scared of what I won’t become and you’re scared of what I could become. Look at me, I won’t let myself end where I started. I won’t let myself finish where I began. I know what is within me, even if you can’t see it yet. Look me in the eyes. I have something more important than courage; I have patience. I will become what I know I am.”
As for the shoes themselves, the Air Jordan 4 Retro “Fear” dons unique color blocking that has not been seen on the model since. Its nubuck upper combines solid black with a charcoal gray and a lighter gray on the toe for a gradient look. A speckled midsole gives the shoe some added flair, while contrasting white hits break up the otherwise dark colorway.
The return of the Air Jordan 4 Retro “Fear” follows the Air Jordan 3 “Fear,” which was re-released in 2023. This makes the Air Jordan 5 the only style from the original “Fear Pack” that has yet to be reissued.
The Air Jordan 4 Retro “Fear” is currently set for a November 9 release at a retail price of $215. This story will be updated with any changes and official confirmation from the brand. For now, readers can find official retailer images below.
