After seeing teasers since the 2021 NBA playoffs, the Jordan Brand has finally unveiled the Jordan XXXVI (36), revealing its tech specs.
The sneaker takes elements from the past two Jordan signature models in the 34 and 35, while offering a lighter package. The hollowed-out Eclipse Plate in the midsole returns from those models. This time the “hole” is directly between the midsole and outsole, ditching the bottom section of the plastic plate to reduce weight.
Another weight improvement on the AJ36 is leno-weave jacquard upper. This allows the open (and breathable) material to retain stability despite the “see through” appearance:
In terms of cushioning, Team Jordan is sticking to what works for the Nike Basketball styles. A full-length Zoom Strobel unit combines with the large forefoot Zoom unit to provide lightweight bounce. This setup is notably on the KD 13, but with the larger unit on the forefoot.
The herringbone traction pattern features thick grooves to avoid dust clogging for yet another “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it” feature.
While not shown in the official images, the insole/sockliner is even perforated to reduce weight, with the added bonus of getting closer to the responsive Zoom.
Tech aside, the AJ 36 takes minor easter eggs fro the Air Jordan 6 as an homage to the sneaker that Michael won his first championship in. This includes a heel tab as well as the lace covering.
The Air Jordan 36 officially debuts in Globally with the white and gold “Glory” colorway that players like Jayson Tatum rocked in the 2021 playoffs.
The “Global Game” colorway takes the red and yellow from the Chinese flag and will be worn by Guo Ailun. This drops August 17 in Greater China.
Phoenix Mercury Guard Kia Nurse gets her own AJ36 PE as well, dropping August 17 in her home country Canada as well as Jumpman LA in Los Angeles.
A white and blue colorway made for Jayson Tatum will release on August 21 across North America.
Next to get a PE release is Rui Hachimura, whose red and black Jordan 36 drops on August 22 throughout Asia and Latin America.
The purple and orange “First Light” Air Jordan 36 that was the first colorway to be teased will release on August 29 in Greater China and globally on September 2.
In what might be the most popular colorway, Luka Doncic’s Maverick blue AJ 36 sadly won’t release stateside. Instead, it’ll drop in Asia, Latin America, and Europe on September 4.
Finally, we have the inline “Psychic Energy” colorway in white and red that will release globally on September 16.
?