1989. The birth year of the Air Jordan 4 came about in the midst of a career season by Michael Jordan and the Bulls. Though he didn't come out with the ring that year, he did produce a sneaker that took the world by storm.

The Air Jordan 4 was once again Tinker Hatfield's baby. He introduced many new design concepts such as the straps on each side for improved ankle support. It was virtually impossible for MJ to roll his ankle in these sneakers. The shoes again featured the air sole heel for added cushioning and a full length midsole.

Coming off the national success of the first three Air Jordans, the AJ4 became the first internationally released Jordan brand shoe. The fantastic cushioning sole and eye catching design made it to an international best seller.

Michael Jordan reached new heights in his career while wearing the Air Jordan 4. Taking home another scoring title, averaging 32.5 points per game, MJ also appeared in the All-Star Game, First Team NBA and All-Defense. But it was in these shoes that MJ made "The Shot" - the legendary game and series winning shot at the buzzer against the Cleveland Cavaliers. Considered one of Jordan's greatest clutch moments, it kick started the first of many amazing game-winning shots he would make in his playoff career.

Nike continued the Jordan ad campaigns with Spike Lee, who played a character named Mars Blackmon. He created the famous Can/Can't TV ad which featured the Air Jordan 4, and gave them some extra promotion in his movie Do The Right Thing.

The first series of retro Jordans in the mid-90s weren't a runaway hit until the Retro Air Jordans 4 came out in 1999. When these kicks were retro'd in white/black and black/cement grey (nicknamed "Cookies & Cream"), people went crazy over it. Stores sold out in a matter of hours and everyone seemed to want a pair.

You can't deny, the Air Jordan 4 is simply one of the greats.

Miguel Velez. Sneaker Aficionado. Swimmer. Music Guru.