First Look at the Jordan Tatum 4: Jayson Tatum, Jordan Brand Lift the Lid on the Lightest Ever Basketball Shoe

Jordan Brand has unveiled the Jordan Tatum 4, the latest signature shoe for Boston Celtics star Jayson Tatum.

Marketed as the brand's lightest basketball shoe yet, it debuts in the 'St. Louis' colourway this October 2025, honouring Tatum's hometown.

The release highlights both the evolution of performance footwear and Tatum's increasing prominence as a key figure in the Jordan franchise.

Inside the Launch

The Jordan Tatum 4 is the fourth signature basketball shoe for Boston Celtics forward Jayson Tatum.

Jordan Brand, a division of Nike, claims its latest basketball model is the lightest in the lineup to date, designed to enhance speed and agility on the court.

The debut 'St. Louis' colourway, named in tribute to Tatum's hometown, will release globally in October 2025 through Jordan Brand's online store and select international retailers. The silhouette was created by Jordan's design team in collaboration with Tatum, reflecting both his playing style and personal brand.

What the Tatum 4 Offers

Jordan Brand is positioning the Tatum 4 as an evolution of the line, focusing on weight reduction without sacrificing support. Compared to earlier models, the shoe features a sleeker profile and updated construction designed to enhance lockdown and responsiveness.

The 'St. Louis' colourway showcases breathable mesh blended with premium overlays, symbolising a connection to Tatum's roots. Brand materials describe the model as engineered to balance agility, stability and comfort, with refinements intended to give athletes more freedom of movement in high-intensity play.

The shift from the Tatum 3 to the Tatum 4 is significant. While the Tatum 3 drew praise for cushioning, some players noted it felt slightly heavy for extended use. Jordan's designers have clearly responded, trimming weight and streamlining the structure. Lightweight mesh zones are becoming a standard feature in performance footwear, and the Tatum 4 follows this trend, pairing flexibility with durability.

For everyday players, the difference of a few grams can be subtle, but for athletes logging long hours on hardwood courts, less weight can mean fresher legs in the fourth quarter.

Beyond Performance: Culture And Market Position

Signature basketball shoes carry weight beyond performance; they shape a brand's identity and reflect broader trends in sports and fashion.

The Tatum 4's claim to be the lightest in Jordan's basketball lineup underscores how the market is shifting toward speed-first footwear, aligning with the demands of the modern game.

Fast breaks, quick rotations and rapid changes of direction define today's NBA. A lighter shoe won't guarantee a win, but it can help players feel sharper and less fatigued over long stretches.

For Jordan Brand, this release is also about timing. As the era of LeBron James and other veteran athletes edges closer to its end, rising stars like Jayson Tatum are stepping forward to carry the brand's performance portfolio. Each of his signature releases strengthens Jordan's credibility with younger fans and ensures the brand remains a fixture on NBA courts. In a competitive sneaker market, where Adidas, Puma and New Balance are chasing their own stars, the Tatum 4 is Jordan's signal that it intends to stay ahead.

There is also a cultural element. Tatum grew up idolising the Jordan line, and now he is shaping it. For fans in St. Louis, the tribute colourway is more than just a sneaker; it's a reminder that one of their own has reached the top of the game and is leaving a legacy both on and off the court.

Looking Ahead

The 'St. Louis' edition will be the first to launch in October 2025, with additional colourways expected to follow afterwards. Pricing, sizing and global availability will be confirmed closer to release, and sneaker watchers anticipate both performance and lifestyle editions in the pipeline.

Early reviews from athletes and consumers will be critical in testing Jordan Brand's promise of lighter weight with reliable durability.

If the Tatum 4 delivers, it could set new standards for performance basketball footwear. But if compromises emerge, such as reduced longevity or inconsistent traction, the push for lightness may face scrutiny.

Either way, the launch reinforces Jayson Tatum's place as one of the defining faces of Jordan Brand.