The Air Jordan 4 “White Cement” Returns to Anchor This Week’s Best Footwear Drops

Following a month filled with playoff excitement, the Conference Finals in both the NBA and NHL are now ready to commence tonight. Apart from the thrilling matchups, this week also promises some intriguing sneaker releases from notable brands like Nike, Crocs, Converse, adidas, Jordan Brand, Dr. Martens, and New Balance. As always, we’ll begin by recapping last week’s significant news, starting with updates from the Swoosh.

Among the anticipated drops for the year is Tom Sachs’ NikeCraft Mars Yard 3.0, set to hit stores in September. We got a sneak peek at Caitlin Clark’s Nike Kobe 5 Protro “Rookie of the Year” PE that she sported during her impressive WNBA debut. Additionally, we showcased glimpses of the second WORKSOUT x Nike Air Max 95 and this year’s Scarr’s Pizza x Nike Air Force 1 Low. Furthermore, a sneak peek at the upcoming Air Jordan 5 “Tokyo23” was also revealed, not from the Jumpman team but… (information missing)

Last week saw another successful stretch for New Balance as Aimé Leon Dore launched three MT10T models, Ronnie Fieg hinted at a New York Knicks-themed Kith x New Balance 993 partnership, and previews of two 992 sneakers from the Made in USA line were leaked online. To cap off a productive week for the American sportswear brand, the “Protection Pack” of 2002Rs is set to return to the market.

In other sectors of the industry, JJJJound unveiled a sneak peek of its upcoming GEL-KAYANO 14 partnership. Simultaneously, G-SHOCK shook up the sneaker world with its Crocs Echo Wave-inspired watch design. Meanwhile, adidas showcased a glimpse of the adidas Anthony Edwards 2 and a fresh Superstar Hi collaboration with Wales Bonner.

Since you’re all updated about the recent developments in the shoe world, let’s explore which 10 releases this week are worth keeping an eye on, starting with another Nike Basketball “What The” re-release. Later, make sure to check out HBX to see what shoes are currently up for grabs.

Nike Kobe 9 Elite Protro “What The”

Launch Date: May 21st
Retail Price: $240 USD
Where to Purchase: SNKRS
Why It’s Worth Buying: Nike Basketball revives another iconic Kobe shoe, the Kobe 9 Elite Protro, in its “What The” colorway from 2015. This anniversary edition retains all its original details with a vibrant mix of colors adorning the white sneaker, blending various past colorways to create a distinctive look. An upgrade for on-court performance is the inclusion of Nike React foam in the midsole.

Salehe Bembury x Crocs Pollex Juniper “Apricot”

Launch Date: 22nd of May
Launch Price: $140 USD
Where to Purchase: BeASpunge
Why You Shouldn’t Miss Out: Salehe Bembury continues to be a significant influence in the sneaker world, heading Crocs Pollex, revitalizing PUMA Hoops, and collaborating with brands like New Balance and Moncler. As part of his ongoing partnership with Crocs, he presents his fifth design for the Pollex Juniper sneaker, offering a distinctive colorway, “Apricot.” This pair blends orange, lavender, bright blue, red, and yellow to create an exceptional look.

Naruto Shippuden x Converse Chuck Taylor All Star & Weapon

Dropping Date: May 22
Drop Price: Ranging from $80 USD to $130 USD
Where to Grab ‘Em: Check out Converse for these drops
Why You Don’t Want to Miss Out: Gear up for an epic crossover as the world of Naruto Shippuden merges with Converse! This week, five character-inspired sneakers are hitting the shelves. Four Chuck Taylor All Stars honor Naruto, Sasuke, Kakashi, and Gaara, each featuring unique graphics. The fifth, an Itachi Weapon sneaker, comes adorned with a special jacquard underlay that ties in with its theme. To make your pair truly one-of-a-kind, you can customize it via the Converse By You platform!

AVAVAV x adidas Moonrubber & Superstar

Launch Date: May 22nd
Retail Price: Between $280 USD and $350 USD
Where to Purchase: adidas
Why You Might Want to Buy: AVAVAV returns with a unique twist on adidas footwear. The Italian brand has crafted two Moonrubber Megaride runners, as well as two Superstars with a wavy design. The Moonrubber Megaride shoes feature distinctive tooling that gives the appearance of walking on a bubble. On the other hand, the Superstar model has been redesigned with a wider toe and heel.

Swarovski x Air Jordan 1 Low OG

As a devoted sneaker enthusiast, here’s my take:

On the 22nd of May, these shimmering gems are mine! I’m talking about the Air Jordan 1 Low OG, the latest collaboration between Jordan and Swarovski. The release price is set at $1,000 USD. You can grab a pair on SNKRS.

Now, why should you join me in this purchase? This stunning piece boasts a crystal-covered design that elevates the original “Shadow” colorway to new heights. A unique “caviar fabric” texture catches the light, showcasing the dazzling crystals. Plus, there’s bespoke hardware and packaging to complete the luxurious experience.

Lil Yachty x Nike Air Force 1 Low “Lucky Green”

Launch Date: 22nd of May
Purchase Price: $130 USD
Where to Acquire: SNKRS
Reason for Purchase: Lil Yachty is back with his second sneaker collaboration with Nike, the Air Force 1 Low. This time around, he’s introduced a “Lucky Green” edition that features a vintage-inspired patent leather. The color palette is striking, featuring green alongside yellow and red. The Concrete Boys branding can be found on the lateral heel and heel tab, while the group’s motto, “It’s Us,” appears on the tongue, sockliner, and hangtag.

Supreme x Dr. Martens Studded Penton Loafer

Launch Date: May 22 (in North America and Europe) and May 24 (Asia)
Launch Price: To be determined later
Where to Purchase: From the Supreme store
Why You Might Want to Buy: Supreme has teamed up with Dr. Martens again for their seasonal collection, this time reimagining the Penton Loafer. The upper is made of smooth leather in colors like forest green, red, and black, all of which have studs scattered throughout. A tag stitched in a matching tone bears the Supreme logo at the lateral heel, while both brands are displayed on the sockliner. Each pair also features an AirWair-cushioned sole unit, especially designed for Supreme.

Aimé Leon Dore x New Balance RC56

Launch Date: 23rd May
Launch Price: $160 USD
Where to Purchase: Aimé Leon Dore
Why Consider Buying: Aimé Leon Dore, with its founder Teddy Santis leading the New Balance MADE in USA line, has a strong bond with the brand. The latest evolution in their partnership is the introduction of the first co-designed sneaker: the RC56. This cross-country runner-inspired shoe comes in co-branded colorways of “Neon/Grey,” “Pristine,” and “Navy.” These color options subtly pay tribute to the duo on the tongue, heel, and sockliner.

Air Jordan 4 “White Cement”

Launch Date: 24th May
Launch Price: $225 USD
Where to Purchase: SNKRS
Why You Should Get It: Last year, there was an abundance of Air Jordan 4 releases in honor of its 35th anniversary. Among them, the reemergence of the iconic “White Cement” colorway has been highly anticipated by sneaker enthusiasts. Unlike some of the recent “Reimagined” designs, this pair stays faithful to its original design, featuring a white leather upper contrasted with black and gray cement detailing, including a visible Nike Air logo at the heel.

New Balance 1000 “Bāṅdhnū”

Launch Date: May 24th
Launch Price: Approximately $178 USD (equivalent to ¥26,400 JPY)
Where to Purchase: atmos
Why You Might Want To Buy: This week sees the release of a unique collaboration between Japanese sneaker retailer atmos and New Balance. The duo has prepared a special edition for the 1000 model, named “Bāṅdhnū.” This colorway is part of New Balance’s “Grey Days” celebration, featuring an exclusive paisley pattern in white on a black base.

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2025-05-20 20:56

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