Heritage & Power: The Top 5 Sneaker Drops of November 2020
This November, Jordan Brand and Nike are bridging the gap between historical storytelling and peak performance. From the return of a Japan-exclusive classic to a tribute for the Forbidden City, the lineup is packed with "Grail" potential. Here are the five releases defining the culture this week.
| Style Code | CW5458-100 |
| Release Date | November 2020 |
| Retail Price | $140 USD |
The Nike Waffle Racer LX is a masterclass in deconstructed heritage. Drawing inspiration from Bill Bowerman’s original 1970s prototype, this "Luxury" iteration updates the classic silhouette with a feminine, high-fashion edge. The upper features a unique mixture of soft suede and airy ripstop fabric, providing both breathability and a premium tactile feel.
The standout detail is the leopard-print suede overlays that wrap the heel and toe, adding a wild, safari-inspired energy to the vintage runner. Underneath, the iconic waffle outsole has been reimagined with exaggerated rubber lugs, giving the shoe a modern, aggressive stance. It’s a perfect blend of track history and street-style luxury.
| Colorway | Red/Grey/Black |
| Technology | Nike React & Zoom Air |
| Retail Price | $120 USD |
Designed for the high-intensity player, the Jordan React Elevation PF offers a hybrid cushioning system that is rarely seen at this price point. By combining the smooth, responsive feel of Nike React foam in the heel with the explosive "pop" of Zoom Air in the forefoot, this shoe provides the ultimate balance of impact protection and speed.
The upper is constructed with a mix of real and synthetic leather, paired with breathable textiles for a secure and supportive fit. The padded mid-high collar ensures ankle stability during sharp lateral movements, while the "PF" (Performance Fit) designation means the outsole is built with extra-durable rubber for outdoor court dominance. It's a rugged performance beast in a classic "Bred"-inspired palette.
| Colorway | Black/Cement Grey-Court Purple |
| Style Code | CT8532-050 |
| Retail Price | $190 USD |
Originally rumored to be a "Lakers" tribute, the Air Jordan 3 "Court Purple" actually draws its design cues from the Phoenix Suns' aesthetic. This holiday lineup standout features a premium black tumbled leather upper that maintains the high-end feel of the legendary 1988 silhouette.
The signature elephant print overlays appear in classic Cement Grey on the toe and heel, while the namesake "Court Purple" accents hit the midsole, collar, and Jumpman branding. It’s a clean, monochromatic approach that allows the purple pops to truly shine. For those who love the "Black Cement" blocking but want a modern, royal twist, this is a mandatory pick-up.
| Colorway | White/Midnight Navy-Metallic Silver |
| Style Code | DC1788-100 |
| Heritage | Japan-Exclusive Retro |
Jordan Brand continues to revive the iconic 2001 "Concept Japan" (CO.JP) series by bringing back the "Midnight Navy" Air Jordan 1 High. Originally released as a Japan-exclusive limited to only 3,000 pairs, this 2020 retro marks the first time many collectors can actually secure a pair.
The upper features a pristine white leather base paired with lush Midnight Navy nubuck overlays. The "Metallic Silver" Swoosh and Wings logo provide a high-contrast, luxury finish that distinguishes the CO.JP series. Inside, you'll find the specialized branding on the insole, cementing its status as a piece of sneaker history. It’s a sophisticated, timeless look that honors the global impact of Japanese sneaker culture.
| Theme | 600th Anniversary - Ming Dynasty |
| Technology | Eclipse Plate 2.0 |
| Retail Price | $225 USD |
Taking the top spot this week is a majestic tribute to Chinese history and architectural grandeur. The Air Jordan 35 "Dynasties" is inspired by the Forbidden City in Beijing, specifically celebrating the 600th anniversary of the Ming Dynasty. This is more than a basketball shoe; it is a wearable cultural artifact.
The upper is draped in premium yellow suede, featuring a tiled pattern that symbolizes imperial power, respect, and the yellow roof tiles of the palace. Beneath the surface, the shoe features Jordan's most advanced tech: the Flight Wire netting and the hollowed-out Eclipse Plate 2.0 for maximum stability. The design is rounded out with jade-colored outsoles and 3M reflective branding on the tongue, creating a "majestic" aesthetic that honors half a millennium of history. It is a true masterpiece of storytelling and performance.