The Jordan Proto-32.9 Is Inspired By Early Air Jordan 33 Prototypes

It may be almost two months into the life cycle of the Air Jordan 34, but Jordan Brand isn’t done with the Air Jordan 33 yet either, as the Nike subsidiary has used the 33’s early design prototypes to create a brand new silhouette dubbed the Jordan Proto-32.9. With a chukka-like construction and plenty of exposed detailing, the design combines a utilitarian look with signature performance tech, crossing over between court and street.

The 5/8 cut upper is constructed of black neoprene and nubuck, then equipped with black overlays made of both fabric and synthetic material. Pops of red are dispersed thorough as well, many of which are used on the eyestays that hold the wire-equipped FastFit lacing system in place. The shoe is both tightened and loosened by a pull tab on the midfoot that features “Yes” branding — a possible acknowledgement of an approved design sketch — and a yellow/black cord on the medial midfoot offers more texture.

Branding is mostly kept to a minimum, with hits on both the heel/tongue’s pull tabs, tonal text on the other straps and a single white Jumpman logo on the medial collar. Down below, the black midsole is filled with Zoom Air cushioning, and features a translucent window that exposes the inner workings of the FastFit system, showing the winch that it uses to adjust the shoe’s tightness. A black outsole finalizes the look.

The Jordan Proto-32.9 is available now on Nike.com. The retail price is set at $175 USD.

On the other end of the Jordan spectrum, the beloved Air Jordan 6 “DMP” is set to re-release for the first time ever in January 2020.