[Update 10 Oct] SNKRS have just confirmed that the release date for this special commemorative Air Jordan 7 will be on 22nd October, just two days later than what was purported.

The Air Jordan 7 celebrates its 30th anniversary this year, and as per tradition, that means special commemorative colorways and collaborations like the highly-anticipated Bephies Beauty Supply x Air Jordan 7 Retro SP.

The AJ7 has never been short of iconic moments during its original ’92 run. In fact, it was a commercial for the pair that became the catalyst to the ‘cult classic’ film we would come to know as—”SPACE JAM”. What started out as a minute-long commercial between Air Jordan and Bugs Bunny’s Hare Jordan, became a concept that would be fleshed out into a feature film with the rest of the Looney Tunes.

Perhaps of all of its off-court hallmarks, it would be the Michael vs. Michael moments that would take the cake. Featuring the two biggest names on the planet at the time—Michael Jordan and Michael Jackson. Not only did two GOATS co-exist on our little planet, they did so in one little music video called “Jam”.

This year, the AJ7 extends its musical pedigree through the “Afrobeats” colorway. A complex genre with provenance from West Africa, fusing styles from its homeland and its adoptive one; a synthesis of traditional Yoruba elements and American funk, jazz, and soul.

Bordered around the “Vanchetta Tan” all-leather upper is a mountainous landscape depicted in geometric art, while on the tongue and sock lining are patterned graphics commonly seen on dashikis. There’s a tasteful harmony between ostentation and restraint in the color palette.

Over the earthy tones are subtle hits of black, particularly on the shoelaces and the Nike branding on the heel. Right below, the midsoles take a bolder turn with hues of orange and purple, colors that permeate into fractions of the outsole enveloping the Jumpman within it.

Every sneaker is a work of art, but this one is truly inspired, with every detail carefully considered. A collector’s item that ought to be worn, but so beautiful it’s understandable if it instead becomes a mantlepiece.

The Air Jordan 7 SE “Afrobeats” is scheduled for release on October 20 on Nike SNKRS and select retailers with a price tag of US$210. But should anything change, expect an update from us right here.

While we have you, hop over to see the Shelflife x Air Jordan 2 Low, an iteration of the silhouette by South African boutique Shelflife.