Release Update! Rui Hachimura x Air Jordan 8
News on this release was originally published on November 9, 2021.
Update May 10, 2022: Nike have confirmed that the Air Jordan 8 'Rui Hachimura' releases May 23 for $225.
Update January 27, 2022: The Rui Hachimura x Air Jordan 8 has fallen victim to another release delay (damn !). Originally rumoured for a holiday 2021 release, it was then scheduled for a February 18 drop – and now it's been pushed back to March 24. Stay tuned for more info and a buying guide as its release draws closer.
After upcoming colab began around the sneaker interwebs earlier this month, a full set of official images have now surfaced. Hachimura – a third-year forward with the Washington Wizards – has been a part of the family since he was drafted ninth overall in the 2019 Draft and has received several performance-geared PEs as well as an that actually saw a retail release. However, this Air Jordan 8 is notable in that it's his first lifestyle silhouette.
Earthy 'Twine' and 'Sesame' shades meet on the upper, which features aged detailing on its eyestays, heels and signature collar flaps. That's not it for texture either, as a gridded pattern can be seen on the collar and tongue. The AJ 8's signature Jumpman chenille tongue badge has been swapped out for one that features Hachmura's logo, and Japanese characters are placed on the inside of the tongue for a nod to his heritage.
Other details include milky heel overlays and special insoles with a pattern that combines cherry blossoms and basketballs. Even the box and its tissue paper are Hachimura-centric, as both show a full-colour graphic of him leaping for a right-handed dunk while surrounded by shadowy figures that can't match his elevation.
An official release date for the Rui Hachimura x Air Jordan 8 has yet to be revealed, but early reports place its arrival during this holiday season. Expect to fork over $225 if you'd like to get your hands on a pair.