This Hybrid Jordan Tank Is More Than Prepped for Winter
Originally created in 2006 as a homage to Spike Lee’s legendary Mars Blackmon character, the Jordan Spizike mashup has evolved into a staple hybrid in the Jumpman lineup. Re-engineering the low-top variation with a gorped-out, weather-ready spin, Jordan Brand introduces the Jordan Spizike Low Utility Spruce Fog.
With a little ingenuity, the Spizike Low Utility translates retro aesthetics into an accomplished utilitarian package. The classic multi-retro silhouette gets most of its new energy from the heavy-duty materials that have been drafted in to winterize the upper while a muted earth-tone palette helps turn the court-adjacent design into a street boot alternative.
As Nike doubles down on silhouettes like the Goadome Low, it’s interesting to see that the desire for hard-wearing utility stretches to Jordan Brand, too. Not just based around build, but also in aesthetics: A muted Spruce Fog green covers the upper base, framed against a stark black mudguard that works its way up from the sole unit.
Durable ripstop fabric replaces traditional leather underlays, reinforced by rubberized mudguards as well as utilitarian detailing to the lacing column in the form of hiking-style laces and a toggle fastening with protective hood at the vamp.
Surprisingly, no changes come to the sole unit which remains tooled for the court. It could be seen as a missed opportunity to not fuse a commando sole unit to this design, but stands as a conscious decision from the design team to preserve the sportier construction of the OG silhouette despite winterizing the upper.
The Jordan Spizike Low Utility Spruce Fog proves that hybrid designs hit hardest when backed by real utility. Not only that, but that just because a design has been reworked for tough conditions, it doesn’t have to feel bland.
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