Air Jordan 12 Retro 'Obsidian' 2012 130690-410 #

The Air Jordan 12 Retro 'Obsidian' 2012 (Style Code: 130690-410) is a re-release of the beloved 1997 original, a colorway that holds a special place in the Air Jordan line. Known for its elegant combination of deep blue tones and clean white accents, this shoe is both a classic in style and performance.

Design and Aesthetic

• Colorway: The Obsidian/White/University Blue/French Blue color palette is striking yet understated. The upper is dominated by obsidian blue leather, giving the shoe a sleek, almost luxurious appearance. This is balanced by the contrasting white pebbled leather mudguard that wraps around the sides, adding visual contrast and texture. University Blue accents are seen on the Jumpman branding, enhancing the overall look with subtle pops of color.

• Full-Grain Leather Upper: The upper consists of premium obsidian leather, known for its durability and high-quality finish. The smooth leather is paired with a textured lizard-print leather mudguard, giving the shoe its distinctive, multi-dimensional look.

• Silver Metallic Details: One of the defining features of the Air Jordan 12 design is its metallic silver accents. On the 'Obsidian' colorway, the silver eyelets at the top provide a sharp contrast to the deep blue upper, giving the shoe a touch of elegance.

Midsole and Outsole

• Full-Length Zoom Air Cushioning: The Air Jordan 12 'Obsidian' incorporates full-length Zoom Air cushioning for a responsive feel, making it ideal for performance on the court. The Phylon midsole offers lightweight support, and the carbon fiber shank plate provides enhanced stability and support, which was ahead of its time in terms of basketball technology.

• Rubber Outsole: The shoe features a white rubber outsole with a herringbone traction pattern, delivering superior grip on both the court and various surfaces. The Jumpman logo at the toe, along with the number “23” on the heel, adds to the iconic branding of the silhouette.

Branding and Details

• Jumpman Logo: The tongue is emblazoned with a University Blue Jumpman logo, making it a focal point of the design. The “TWO 3” embroidered on the tongue continues the Jordan line's traditional touch, referencing Michael Jordan’s jersey number.

• Heel Tab: On the heel, the “QUALITY INSPIRED BY THE GREATEST PLAYER EVER” text adds to the shoe's narrative, celebrating Jordan’s legacy. The white heel tab also features the blue Jumpman logo and “23” branding, further linking it to Jordan's career.

• University Blue Accents: The use of University Blue on the Jumpman logos and details on the outsole adds subtle vibrancy to the otherwise classic color scheme, giving the shoe a unique flair that distinguishes it from other Air Jordan 12 models.

Comfort and Performance

• Zoom Air Technology: Designed for the court, the Air Jordan 12 'Obsidian' offers exceptional comfort with its full-length Zoom Air cushioning, which ensures responsiveness during movement. The shoe's high-top design provides additional ankle support, making it a practical choice for both basketball and everyday wear.

• Durability: The combination of high-quality materials and a sturdy rubber outsole ensures that the shoe is not only stylish but also long-lasting. The full-grain leather construction is built to withstand the rigors of the game, while the reinforced mudguard adds extra protection.

Legacy and History

The Air Jordan 12 'Obsidian' originally debuted in 1997, but unlike some of its counterparts, it wasn't worn by Michael Jordan on the court during the NBA season. However, it became a fan favorite due to its clean and versatile look, and the 2012 re-release paid homage to this underrated gem in the Jordan line. While not associated with a specific iconic Jordan moment, the 'Obsidian' colorway has remained popular for its stylish design and performance.

Conclusion

The Air Jordan 12 Retro 'Obsidian' 2012 (130690-410) is a must-have for sneaker enthusiasts who appreciate both the history of the Jordan brand and its timeless style. The obsidian blue and white combination is versatile enough for casual wear, while the shoe’s advanced technology makes it suitable for on-court performance. Its sleek design, premium materials, and iconic status in the Air Jordan lineup make it a standout in any collection.