A Sneaker Milestone Returns: The highly coveted UNDEFEATED x Air Jordan 4 is making a triumphant comeback, offering a second chance for sneakerheads to snag this grail. Originally released in extremely limited quantities in 2005, this collaboration between Jordan Brand and Los Angeles streetwear powerhouse UNDEFEATED is set to drop again, commemorating its 20th anniversary and allowing a new generation to experience a piece of sneaker history.
The UNDEFEATED x Air Jordan 4: A Sneaker Legend
The UNDEFEATED x Air Jordan 4 isn’t just a shoe; it’s a cultural artifact. Its initial release in 2005 marked Jordan Brand’s first-ever collaboration with another brand, a move that sent shockwaves through the sneaker world. With only 72 pairs produced, primarily distributed through raffles and gifted to friends and family, its scarcity quickly elevated it to mythical status. According to reporting from KICKS CREW, the shoe became a “holy grail” for collectors, commanding exorbitant prices on the resale market.
Design and Inspiration
The design of the UNDEFEATED x Air Jordan 4 draws heavily from military inspiration, specifically the MA-1 flight jacket. The upper features a premium olive green nubuck, complemented by striking black and orange accents. Sneaker News notes that the 2025 retro release faithfully recreates the original’s aesthetic, while incorporating several key updates. These include the classic “Nike Air” branding on the heel, a nod to the original Air Jordan lineage, and Undefeated’s signature five-strikes logo on the insole. The 2025 version also includes removable Jumpman patches and an extra set of laces, allowing for customization. The retail price is set at $225 or $230, according to Sole Retriever.
The Key Players
This iconic collaboration involves several key players. UNDEFEATED, founded in 2002, is an influential streetwear boutique known for its military-inspired aesthetic and exclusive collaborations. Jordan Brand, a division of Nike, is synonymous with basketball and sneaker culture, thanks to the legacy of Michael Jordan. Tinker Hatfield, the legendary sneaker designer, originally created the Air Jordan 4 silhouette, laying the foundation for this iconic collaboration, as noted by Nike.
A Staggered Release: The Second Chance
The 2025 retro release of the UNDEFEATED x Air Jordan 4 has been carefully orchestrated through a series of staggered drops. Initial releases were managed through UNDEFEATED’s channels, creating a buzz and driving demand. According to undefeated.com, online raffles began on July 28, 2025, followed by in-store raffles on July 30, 2025, at select UNDEFEATED Chapter Stores. A wider online release on undefeated.com occurred on August 2, 2025, with a global launch at UNDEFEATED Chapter Stores outside the U.S. on August 3, 2025.
The SNKRS App Opportunity
The most anticipated “second chance” for many arrives on August 28, 2025, with a global release scheduled via the Nike SNKRS app, as reported by HotNewHipHop. This wider release provides an opportunity for sneakerheads worldwide to attempt to secure a pair at retail. However, given the shoe’s limited quantities and immense popularity, competition is expected to be fierce.
Where to Find Them
The initial 2005 release was incredibly exclusive. The 2025 retro has seen releases through UNDEFEATED’s official website and their physical Chapter Stores located in cities like San Francisco, Las Vegas, Arizona, and New York, as well as a Los Angeles pop-up. An early release also took place via a pop-up in Chicago. The broader global release is being handled through the Nike SNKRS application, making it the most accessible avenue for many hoping to acquire the shoe.
Why the Hype? Anniversary Celebration.
The re-release is primarily a celebration of the 20th anniversary of the groundbreaking 2005 collaboration. The original’s extreme scarcity and its profound impact on sneaker culture, being the first brand collaboration for Jordan Brand, made it an almost mythical item. This retro aims to honor its legacy and make this iconic design accessible to a wider audience of sneakerheads who previously had no chance of acquiring it.
Impact on Sneaker Culture
The return of the UNDEFEATED x Air Jordan 4 has generated immense hype and anticipation within the sneaker community, establishing it as one of the most anticipated releases of the year. According to Complex, the re-release serves to reinforce the collaboration’s legendary status and introduces its historical significance to a new generation of collectors. While the re-release offers a unique opportunity, the high demand for this “grail” sneaker means that securing a pair remains challenging.
Challenges and Concerns
Despite the excitement, concerns persist among consumers regarding the difficulty of obtaining the shoes at retail. Many anticipate fierce competition from bots and limited stock. Nike’s use of varied release methods, including exclusive access draws and scratch links, has also been noted as potentially frustrating for some, though it aims to manage the overwhelming demand, according to discussions on YouTube sneaker channels. Resale platforms like StockX and GOAT are already seeing pre-release prices skyrocket, indicating the intense demand and potential for significant markups.
Conclusion
The UNDEFEATED x Air Jordan 4’s return is more than just a sneaker release; it’s a cultural event. While securing a pair will undoubtedly be challenging, the re-release offers a chance to own a piece of sneaker history and celebrate a collaboration that redefined the landscape of footwear. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a new enthusiast, the UNDEFEATED x Air Jordan 4 represents the pinnacle of sneaker design and collaboration.
