Some sneaker grails are rare. Others are practically mythical. The Eminem x Air Jordan 4 'Encore' comfortably sits in the latter category, but after more than two decades in the shadows, that’s about to change.
Image courtesy of @zsneakerheadz and Sneaker Files
Introduction:
Originally created in 2005 to celebrate Eminem’s Encore album, the blue Air Jordan 4 was produced exclusively for friends and family, with only around 50 pairs believed to exist. That microscopic production run turned the 'Encore' into one of the most coveted Air Jordan 4 collaborations ever, with authentic pairs now commanding eye-watering five-figure prices.
Now, according to @zsneakerheadz, the Eminem x Air Jordan 4 'Encore' is expected to receive its first-ever public retail release in 2027. Sneaker Files has also reported on the shoe’s return, with the highly anticipated drop currently pencilled in for May 15, 2027, at a retail price of $230.
Design Details:
The 2027 edition isn’t simply dusting off the original blueprint, either. The sneaker arrives in a Blue Ribbon, Game Purple, Stealth, and Black colour scheme, with blue nubuck dominating the upper and translucent eyelets adding that unmistakable early-2000s flavour. Game Purple replaces the Varsity Red detailing found on the 2005 pair, while subtle Eminem branding sits behind the tongue.
Image courtesy of @zsneakerheadz and Sneaker Files
Underfoot, white wraps around the visible Air unit before Stealth and Black complete the outsole. There’s also plenty of speculation surrounding the heel, with the original Jumpman potentially making way for Nike Air.
And the history runs deeper than the rarity. The colourway was designed by Chris Gibbs, with an early concept reportedly originating at UNDEFEATED before catching Eminem’s attention at Nike World Headquarters.
Image courtesy of @zsneakerheadz and Sneaker Files
Bottom Line:
From friends-and-family legend to a retail release, the Eminem x Air Jordan 4 'Encore' is finally stepping out of sneaker folklore and onto the shelves. If you’ve ever called this one a grail, 2027 might just be your moment.
In other sneaker news, the Air Jordan 17 'College Blue' Returns After 25 Years
