The Air Jordan 4 Retro "Thunder" is set for a highly anticipated comeback on May 13, 2023. It will mark the third release for this non-OG colorway of the Air Jordan 4 and the first in more than ten years. To mark the occasion, we have compiled a history of the Air Jordan 4 Retro "Thunder," from its debut to its current re-release. Follow along for everything you need to know about the Air Jordan 4 Retro "Thunder."
The Air Jordan 4 Retro "Thunder" debuted in August 2006. It was released as a part of a limited, online-exclusive collection alongside the Air Jordan 4 Retro "Lightning." This collection was a part of Jordan Brand's LS (lifestyle) line, which was made to experiment and bring new colorways and materials to classic Air Jordans on a limited basis. Alongside the sneakers, Jordan Brand also released accompanying apparel. Both the "Thunder" and "Lightning" colorways of the Air Jordan 4 Retro LS were instant classics and highly sought after, which came as no surprise due to their limited availability. On the "Thunder," a black-based nubuck upper is paired with yellow accents. Subtle hits of white are found via the Jumpman logo on the tongue and back heel, as well as the visible Air unit in the heel.
Fast forward to 2012. For the holiday season, Jordan Brand took the Air Jordan 4 Retro "Thunder" out of the vault and brought it to stores for the first time. They were also available in full-family sizing, while the initial drop was only available in men's. The materials and color placement mirrored its 2006 predecessor. Giving the 2012 release time to breathe, it wasn't until May 2023 that the Air Jordan 4 Retro "Thunder" would appear on the release calendar again. This third drop features a slight change in design, as the shape is more faithful to the original 1989 silhouette than prior retros. Like the 2012 version, this latest retro also comes in full-family sizing.