After a short hiatus, the Air Jordan 12 is returning back to the market in one of its most eccentric arrangements the model has ever seen. But beyond the actual color specifications, an iconic pattern close to the heart of the Air Jordan legacy makes a surprising appearance.

This kids-exclusive Jordan XII drop is a clear-cut Spring/Summer formula as it draws in vivid hues by way of hot pink, bright citrus, and a Miami teal. Above a simple white/grey/black base, these pops of color truly need no help in enhancing their presence, but it’s the accumulation of elephant print at the heel that truly deems these a landmark drop as it’s the first time this unique texture, which first debuted in 1988, makes its appearance on the 1997 model. What’s more thought-provoking is its limited use; Jordan Brand could’ve applied the entirety of the leather upper with Tinker Hatfield’s couch-inspired print, but it’s reserved just for the heel portion of the shoes.

As of the publishing of this article, an official release date for this Air Jordan 12 has been scheduled for February 22nd, 2024 in GS, PS, and TD sizes; see the first look ahead and stay tuned for more updates to arrive on our Jordan Release Dates page.

Without looking too far ahead, here’s the latest on the big All-Star Weekend shoe drop — the Air Jordan 4 “Bred Reimagined”.

Official Nike Images

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