Concept Lab // Air Jordan 4 “Black Gum”

Quite frequently I find myself looking at mainstream Jordan Retros and ask myself what would I change? Personally, I find that the brand often does a little too much — but I do understand that most want a bit more flair to your pair. I’ve always been a fan of the minimal, with colorways like the Kentucky Air Jordan 1 and Infrared Air Jordan 6 prime examples of how intricate designs can be simplified. So when it comes to the Air Jordan 4— a silhouette heavy on layers, midsole segments, mesh, plastics, and more, it can quite often do a little too much. 2019’s black and gum Air Jordan 4 Laser is one of those that often crosses my mind; what would I have done? In my traditionally minimal mood, I recently took to Photoshop to experiment, and this is what I came out with: The Air Jordan 4 “Black Gum”

Omitting both the leather uppers and its laser etching — the latter swinging in and out of vogue like a pendulum — we reverted back to the OG’s classic nubuck upper, minimized the use of accentuating color to emphasize the bold contrast of the pair, and reduced the amount of gum rubber for visual balance. They’re only small changes — and perhaps it’s too simple for some — but for me, it hits harder.

Wanna see more of our sneaker concept work? You can check out every single one of them right here.

Air Jordan 4 “Black Gum”

From the HOUSE OF HEAT Concept Lab