These Jordans Got Upgraded With Nike’s React Cushioning

Following weeks of teasers from Jordan Brand, the label has officially announced that the classic Air Jordan 1 model is getting an update to its tooling with Nike’s React Cushioning technology.

Dubbed the Jordan Apex-Utility, this upcoming model will combine design elements from the past and improve it with the company’s latest Flight Utility technology. “Flight Utility is about designing for the future — extrapolating from the core Jordan Brand DNA along an innovation and function-first approach,” said David Creech, VP of design for Jordan Brand.

A performance-based approach, the upper borrows design cues from the Air Jordan 1, created from the brand’s lightweight Flyknit material housed within a translucent shroud.

Jordan Apex-Utility Lacing System
The lacing system on the Jordan Apex-Utility.
CREDIT: Jordan Brand

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In addition to a traditional lacing system seen on the tongue, the model’s standout feature is its adjustable heel straps that allow for a custom fit. Additional details include Flight Utility graphics seen on both the tongue and heel tabs.

Jordan Apex-Utility Heel Straps
The adjustable heel straps on the Jordan Apex-Utility.
CREDIT: Jordan Brand

The upper is paired with a React-cushioned midsole, one of Nike’s most popular cushioning systems, introduced in 2017.

Jordan Apex-Utility React Cushioning
The React-cushioned tooling on the Jordan Apex-Utility.
CREDIT: Jordan Brand

According to Jordan Brand, sneaker fans can expect the Jordan Apex-Utility to release sometime in 2019.

Nike’s React cushioning made noise in 2018 when the Nike Element React 87 model was unveiled by Jun Takahashi’s “Undercover” fashion show during Paris Fashion Week in March.

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