Updated October 28th, 2024: Official retailer images of the Nike Ja 2 “Valentine’s Day” have been uploaded. The new image set reveals a more pink, salmon-like forefoot section than what was previewed in first look images, with hot pink broken hearts pasted onto the heel. Currently, the holiday-themed colorway is poised to release February 2025 for $130.
Original article published October 10th, 2024:
After a longer than usual 1.5 year wait, Ja Morant’s second signature Nike Basketball shoe has finally taken to shelves. As we delve deeper into the final quarter of 2024, the Nike Ja 2 will mix a slew of holiday-inspired colorways into its rollout selection, with special pairs for Halloween and Christmas already making rounds online. Now skipping a bit further ahead, we just got a first look at a Valentine’s Day colorway pegged for next February.
Right off the bat, eyes are first drawn to the heel. The rear portion of the shoe features a series of broken hearts, flipping the lovey-dovey theme of Valentine’s Day on its head. The pattern comes atop a grey backdrop, with that same shade extending downwards onto the midsole. The quarter features the same radial foam seen on the inaugural Stargazer Ja 2, complemented by a leather forefoot panel and mesh toe box. Capping off the delivery, the tongue branding, Swoosh, and sock lining all come in black.
Given the embellishments seen on the “Halloween” and “Christmas” Ja Morant shoes, official images will likely reveal some additional Valentine’s Day-inspired touches.