Jordan Brand recently launched the Air Jordan 32 model, and it may be one of the best performance basketball sneakers on the market. Although Air Jordan models are predominantly known in the footwear industry for their retro models that Michael Jordan played in, they have taken gigantic strides in recent years with their performance products. They have been able to incorporate the newest technological advancements into aesthetically pleasing silhouettes that have been taking the industry by storm.

The Air Jordan 32 draws inspiration from the Bruce Kilgore designed Air Jordan 2 silhouette from 1987. Some of the features that are clearly inspired by the Jordan 2 are the Wings logo on the tongue, the ribbed details on the collar and heel, the molded snakeskin leather on the side panel, and the moccasin-like toe area. The modern updates on the 32 are some of the most noticeable differences from its predecessor, with the Flyknit constructed upper and the Zoom Air soles being the main highlights.

Performance

Whenever I put any basketball shoes to the test on court, there are four elements that I will use to gauge the quality of the shoes: Cushioning, Support, Traction & Comfort.

The Air Jordan 32 goes in a different direction from its predecessor, as it opts for a segmented Zoom Air unit in the forefoot and heel, instead of the full-length Zoom Air seen on the 31. Although there is a smaller amount of Zoom Air used throughout the shoes, the cushioning is fantastic with the segmented portions providing great flexibility and a fair amount of bounce.

The upper features a new type of Flyknit that is made with high-tenacity yarn that offers great flexibility and a lockdown feel, but it is not the most breathable material. The Flyknit hugs your feet and will stretch with time, but it provides security and stability in combination with the side panels and internal heel counter.

One of the vital components of any basketball shoes is the traction, which is required to grip the court in order to make cuts and other movements. The Air Jordan 32 has a translucent sole made of rubber that features an altered herringbone pattern and this unique outsole helps the 32 grip the floor extremely well.

Overall, the Air Jordan 32 is one of the most comfortable pair of basketball shoes currently on the market with the performance elements to match. Jordan Brand is heading in the right direction with this model, an aesthetically pleasing performance shoe, and there is definitely a reason that the Air Jordan 32 is one of the most popular shoes for Jordan Brand athletes in the NBA.

You can find the Air Jordan 32 at select retailers such as Foot Locker, Footaction, and the Air Jordan store on 306 Yonge Street for a retail price of $245.

Thank you to the Jordan Brand family for the love!