Over 1 year on from the A Ma Maniere Jordan 3, and James Whitner is back. This time his canvas is the Jordan 4. A beloved silhouette from Jordan Brand which is arguably at the peak of its popularity during this moment in time.
Continuing on from the brand’s past collabs, this release sets out to promote change through the youth. Honouring the trailblazers in the Black and Brown community, the leaders who fight against divisiveness and uncertainty, promoting change.
This is not the Whitaker Group’s inaugural collaboration with Jordan Brand, that title belongs to the Jordan Proto-Max 720, it was only until the Jordan 3 was released in 2021 that the brand burst into the industry, using intricate details to tell a story. The A Ma Maniere Jordan 4 does not deviate from this concept. Using small details to tell a story and send a powerful message once again.
The shoe is predominately a monochromatic ‘Violet Ore’, a colour which has been associated with the brand through their prior collaborations with Jordan Brand. It features a beautiful nubuck upper on top of an ‘aged’ sail midsole with black accents, pleasantly contrasting the upper.
It is not without subtle details; the inside of the heel tab reads ‘It’s not about the shoes…it’s about where you’re going’ a reference to the message behind the release through Michael Jordan’s words. In addition, the inside of the pair is constructed of a quilted satin textile, in the ‘Violet Ore’ colourway. The insoles are also quilted leather, with a sewed-on patch ensuring us that the shoe is ‘approved by’ Michael Jordan and inspired by street culture. The shoe is finished off with A Ma Maniere branding on the tongue and metal detailing behind the wing.
Alluring details do not end there. Coming with a glossy hang tag donning the branding of both collaborators. Along with this, the inside of the box lid features A Ma Maniere written out with a black and white Jordan graphic behind said branding. Finally, the A Ma Maniere branded paper is included as usual. The details and materials make this shoe ‘premium’, showcasing how well luxury and streetwear can combine if done correctly.
This release has been shrouded in anticipation with A Ma Maniere asking the community to use their voice. A video submission was necessary for entry, this is a nice change, making entries more personal. Giving people a thoughtful reason for wanting the pair. The brand has advocated for people to ‘use your voice, use your vote’.
An idea of promoting change by influencing young people to vote is important, not only for their future but to ensure their voice has power in present day. The hashtag #myvoiceholdspower was used to encourage the community to vote. It is clear the brand is invested in bringing social change.
There is absolutely no doubt this shoe uses its elegance and details to effortlessly spread a meaningful message. They have been dubbed shoe of the year by some already! However, there is one thing we can be certain of. The A Ma Maniere Jordan 4 is amongst some of the finest releases in 2022.
Let us know what you think of this release, how does it rank in comparison to the previous collaborations on the Jordan 1,2 and 3? It seems as though this will not be the last we see of Jordan Brand working with A Ma Maniere, as the Jordan 12 is set to be the next in line to receive the A Ma Maniere ‘treatment’. We cannot wait to see what 2023 holds for the collaborator…
