- The Air Jordan XXXVIII introduces the X-Plate, a new plate technology drawn from the insights of Michael Jordan’s impeccable footwork. The X-Plate, which is a nod to the straps on the Air Jordan VIII, is combined with a radial herringbone traction pattern and a full-length Zoom Strobel unit.
- The upper is made with a unique backless embroidery and doubles as a canvas for highlighting Michael Jordan’s performance in the 1993 championship series.
- The Air Jordan XXXVIII is the most sustainably made Air Jordan signature shoe in Jordan Brand history, made of at least 20 percent recycled material by weight.
The Air Jordan signature series not only holds the distinction of being the most storied footwear line in basketball history but also stands as the leading basketball line at the forefront of innovation for the next generation of players.
The Air Jordan XXXVIII represents the next progression in this lineage, introducing a fresh plate technology inspired by Michael Jordan’s impeccable footwork insights. The focal points were court mobility and generating separation, reminiscent of Jordan’s iconic fadeaway jumper.
Engineered to accommodate intricate footwork, this shoe boasts a low-to-the-ground design that grants players enhanced court feel during pivots, cuts, and defensive slides. The novel X-Plate, a nod to the straps on the Air Jordan VIII, ensures the foot remains above the footbed during rapid movements.
A radial herringbone traction pattern synergizes with a full-length Zoom Strobel unit and full-length Cushlon 3.0 foam, providing precisely the right degree of responsive cushioning. The outrigger serves to anchor the foot for lateral maneuvers. The lineage of Jordan-exclusive plate technology continues with the X-Plate, following the Flight Plate, Eclipse Plate, and IsoPlate.
The backless embroidery over the forefoot region of the upper contributes to foot security.
The upper also functions as a canvas to commemorate Michael Jordan’s performance during the 1993 championship series, wherein he maintained an average of nearly 41 points, 8 rebounds, and 6 assists, all while shooting at a 50 percent field goal rate.
The embroidered upper showcases distinct areas that highlight these statistics. As an example, the collar bears 41 crosshatches, symbolizing Jordan’s average of 41 points per game for the series. Additionally, three diamonds on the medial side represent the Chicago franchise’s achievement of a third consecutive championship.
When examining the shoe’s individual components, the Air Jordan XXXVIII emerges as the most sustainably produced Air Jordan signature shoe in the history of the Jordan Brand, incorporating a minimum of 20 percent recycled material by weight.
The inaugural colorway of the Air Jordan XXXVIII, known as the Fundamental colorway, will become available at Jordan Manila on August 22nd.