Jordan 4 Black Cat - History and Popularity of the Iconic Colorway

Introduction to the Jordan 4 Black Cat

The Jordan 4 Black Cat is a highly sought-after colorway of the iconic Air Jordan 4 silhouette. Ever since the original Air Jordan 4 "Black Cat" released back in 2006, sneakerheads have been clamoring to get their hands on a pair.

What makes the Black Cat Jordan 4 so desirable is its sleek black color scheme that resembles a stealthy black cat stalking in the night. The entire upper, including the mesh and nubuck detailing, is covered in black. The midsole features cool grey accents to match the grey Jumpman branding on the tongue.

History and Background

The Air Jordan 4 is the fourth signature sneaker endorsed by the legendary basketball player Michael Jordan during his time with the Chicago Bulls. It was originally released in 1989 and was designed by Tinker Hatfield, who took over from Peter Moore after the Air Jordan 3.

The Jordan 4 showcased several new design elements like the mesh panels on the upper for increased breathability and the plastic wings on the sides for structure and support. It also introduced the visible Nike Air cushioning unit in the sole, showcasing the brand's innovative technology.

When the retro Air Jordan 4 releases started coming out in 1999, Jordan Brand began experimenting with new color schemes. The first "Black Cat" Jordan 4 dropped in early 2006 to tremendous interest from sneaker collectors and Jordan fans.

Details of the Black Cat Colorway

The Black Cat Jordan 4 perfectly encapsulates the predator-like essence of the shoe. Here are the key details of this sought-after colorway:

• The upper, including the nubuck and mesh materials, is covered in black to mimic the dark fur of a black cat.
• Cool grey accents on the midsole provide contrast against the black upper.
• A grey Jumpman logo is embroidered on the black tongue.
• The plastic wings on the sides are translucent to allow the black from the upper to show through.
• The outsole features a combination of solid black rubber and translucent sections.
• Signature Jordan 4 details like the lace locks and mesh panels are intact.

Popularity and Resale Value

Ever since the original 2006 release, the Black Cat Jordan 4 has become hugely popular among sneakerheads and Jordan collectors. It has developed a cult-like following over the years.

Part of the appeal lies in its versatility - the Black Cat colorway goes well with most outfits from streetwear to athletic apparel. The dark color scheme also provides a mysterious and stealthy vibe.

On the resale market, used pairs in good condition can fetch upwards of $500 to $600 depending on the size. Brand new and unworn pairs often resell for insane prices going into the thousands.

The high resale value demonstrates the ever-growing demand for the Black Cat 4s amongst sneaker enthusiasts even years after its initial release.

Notable Restocks and Rereleases

Given how popular the shoe is, Jordan Brand has brought back the Black Cat Jordan 4 a number of times over the past decade:

• 2013 - As part of a countdown pack alongside the "Toro" Jordan 4
• 2015 - Individual retro release with Nike Air branding on the heel
• 2019 - With "Nike Air" on the heel again to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the Jordan 4
• 2020 - Lower cut "What The" Jordan 4 mashup release

Each rerelease has sold out instantly and commanded sky-high resale prices, much to the ire of fans hoping to scoop up a pair for retail price. It demonstrates that over 15 years since it first launched, the allure of the Black Cat Jordan 4 is still going strong.

Custom Black Cat Inspired Jordan 4s

Such is the popularity of the rare Air Jordan 4 Black Cat that some sneaker customizers have tried to replicate the look on other Jordan 4 colorways.

By carefully painting over the original colors with black, adding cool grey accents, and tidying up the smaller details, talented custom artists can produce custom Jordans that resemble the Black Cat color scheme.

Customization Process

Transforming a regular Jordan 4 into a Black Cat inspired custom follows this general process:

1. Start with a donor Jordan 4 shoe that will be customized. Popular choices are less hype colorways that can often be bought for below retail price.
2. Use acetone and cotton buds to strip away the original paint and colors from the upper and midsole.
3. Lightly sand down the shoes to prepare the surface for new paint.
4. Mask off sections like the Jordan branding and outsole that you don’t want painted over.
5. Apply several thin layers of black paint to the upper and midsole using acrylic leather paint.
6. Recreate cool grey accents on areas like the midsole and wings.
7. Finish off by repainting smaller details like the Jumpman and size tags.
8. Apply a protective clear coat finish to preserve the new colors.

With attention to detail and some skill, the end result can look very similar to the iconic Black Cat Jordan 4 color-blocking. However customizers generally avoid selling their customs as unauthorized replicas.

Reasons for Customization

There are a few reasons why sneakerheads and customizers try to recreate the Black Cat Jordan 4 look:

• The ability to produce a rare, hype colorway more cheaply compared to paying resale prices.
• Add a personal spin by customizing a completely different Jordan 4 colorway.
• Practice airbrush painting and customization skills on a popular silhouette.
• Fun artistic project for custom shoe makers to take on.

At the end of the day, customized sneakers allow fans to sport the coveted Black Cat look without having to shell out thousands of dollars to sneaker resellers.

Conclusion

The Air Jordan 4 Retro Black Cat has cultivated legendary status amongst Jordan Brand enthusiasts since its debut over 15 years ago. Its stealthy dark color scheme combined with the iconic Jordan 4 silhouette has helped it remain one of the most sought-after Jordans year after year.

Between the limited availability, numerous re-releases, and insane resale value, the Black Cat Jordan 4 will undoubtedly continue to be one of the most popular Jordan colorways for the foreseeable future.

FAQs

When did the original Jordan 4 Black Cat release?

The Air Jordan 4 Retro "Black Cat" originally released in early 2006.

What makes the Black Cat colorway so popular?

The Black Cat Jordan 4 is popular for its sleek all-black color scheme resembling a stealthy black cat, making it very versatile and mysterious.

Why is the Black Cat 4 so valuable?

Very limited availability and high demand from collectors and hypebeasts has led to insane resale prices, with the Black Cat 4 reselling for upwards of $500 to $1,000+ per pair.

Has Jordan Brand rereleased the Black Cat 4?

Yes, Jordan Brand has retro'ed the Black Cat 4 multiple times, including in 2013, 2015, 2019 and 2020 - but each release continues to sell out instantly.

Is it possible to customize other Jordan 4s into "Black Cat" colorways?

Yes, some very talented customizers have managed to transform other Jordan 4s into Black Cat-inspired customs. However these are not authorized replicas.