This holiday season will mark the return of the “Black Toe” Air Jordan XIV after a decade-long hiatus. Although Michael Jordan never wore these in NBA action, as we know that honor was bestowed on the “Last Shot” colorway, and the return of the “Black Toe” is quite a highly anticipated one.
Official images of the upcoming iteration have emerged and Houston, we have a problem. Although the overall visual attributes of the “Black Toe”’ are retained- black suede toe cap, tumbled and smooth leathers, Ferrari-styled Jumpman logo lack suede tongue, and “23” and Jumpman branding on the rear heel-but the issue seems to be with the shape of the shoe. As the case with the “Metallic Gold” Flightposite I, the Nike/Jordan Brand has needlessly altered an element of a returning classic. The asymmetrical design of the XIV is not just a visual attribute but a key performance element of the sneaker. The shape of the shoe has inextricably been altered the cradling slope of the lateral collar has been replaced by a more pronounced display and the 2024 iteration’s asymmetrical shape is somewhat diluted.
Underneath this needlessly altered upper resides a white Phylon midsole and a black herringbone tractioned rubber outsole.
The “Black Toe” Air Jordan XIV is planned to make its return this November in men’s and GS sizing.
images via Nike
