The Air Jordan 4s are not specifically designed for basketball performance in the modern sense, but they can still be used for the sport. They are more of a lifestyle shoe with strong basketball heritage, originally released in 1989. Here’s a breakdown of how they perform:
Pros for Basketball:
1. Comfort: The Jordan 4s have decent cushioning, primarily with the Air cushioning in the heel, offering some level of impact protection.
2. Support: They have a solid ankle collar and provide moderate ankle support, though not as high as some modern performance basketball shoes.
3. Traction: The outsole has a herringbone pattern, which provides decent grip, although it may not perform as well on dusty or outdoor courts as newer models.
Cons for Basketball:
1. Weight: The Jordan 4s are heavier compared to modern performance basketball shoes, which could affect speed and agility.
2. Breathability: The upper is made of a mix of leather and mesh, but it’s not as breathable as some newer performance sneakers.
3. Responsiveness: The midsole and cushioning technology (for example, older Air units) aren’t as responsive or high-tech as more recent basketball shoes, which are designed for explosive movement and better energy return.
Conclusion:
If you’re looking for a shoe to wear casually or for a mix of on-court and off-court style, the Jordan 4s can work fine. However, if you’re playing serious basketball, you might want to consider a more performance-oriented sneaker with better grip, lighter weight, and advanced cushioning.
