Air Jordan XX8 - Official Images

It seems like the wait would never end, but tonight we finally get an official look at the Air Jordan XX8, the newest model in the primary Air Jordan lineup. Legendary Air Jordan designer Tinker Hatfield designed the sneaker, which also received input from the man himself, Michael Jordan.

The Air Jordan XX8 looks to be the the lightest and most advanced model yet, thanks to the incorporation of a number of Nike's latest innovations. As you can see, the sneaker uses a zip-up shroud, which is very similar to the Gary Payton's Nike Air Zoom Flight 98, also known as The Glove. The shroud is made of Schoeller mesh, and provides extra support to the user. Underneath the shroud you'll find Nike's Dynamic Fit technology, a series of straps which provide the wearer with additional support and comfort. Last but not least, the sneaker uses Jordan Brand's Jordan Flight Plate, a system designed to maximize the performance of the Zoom Air units through compression and deflection. The Air Jordan XX8 will release in Houston on February 15, 2013, followed by a nationwide release on February 16, 2013. Retail price is $250. For more info on the sneaker, click here to read a detailed description from Nike.

Today, Jordan Brand, a division of NIKE, Inc., unveiled the AIR JORDAN XX8, the 28th shoe in the AIR JORDAN franchise. It will be available in Houston only on February 15, 2013, and then nationwide on Saturday, February 16, for a suggested retail price of $250.

The AIR JORDAN XX8 boasts an ultra-modern stealth design for elite performance including more technological advances than any AIR JORDAN to date. The AIR JORDAN XX8 – the most tested and lightest AIR JORDAN ever – has an industry-changing first: the Jordan Flight Plate, a Pebax® moderator plate that maximizes the responsiveness of the Nike Zoom units through compression and deflection for optimal performance by essentially unlocking the airbags in the forefoot and heel, unleashing the power of the Zoom bags.

Also featured in The AIR JORDAN XX8 is Dynamic Fit technology that uses internal straps to wrap up from the midsole and integrate with the laces for lightweight support that moves with the foot providing additional lockdown support and comfort.

“The AIR JORDAN XX8 is a reflection of Jordan Brand’s progression in the name of basketball performance," said Larry Miller, President of Jordan Brand. "This newest iteration of our franchise shoe will further solidify Jordan Brand’s premium and innovative position within the industry.”

The AIR JORDAN XX8 also features a high-performance, stretch-synthetic shroud that provides a sleek exterior, while a molded external heel counter is made of carbon fiber for lightweight support. A multidirectional outsole pattern provides excellent traction and durability for the court. Schoeller mesh, a Swiss fabric used in premium motorcycling jackets, is used in the shroud that encompasses the AIR JORDAN XX8 to provide an extra layer of support, stability and style for the athlete.

The AIR JORDAN XX8 continues to inherit inspirational cues from the legacy of Michael Jordan combining innovative technology and premium materials set to inspire those that consider themselves the best at their level.

Designed by legendary shoe designer Tinker Hatfield, Vice President of Special Projects/Design for NIKE, and Jordan Brand Developer Josh Heard, the duo led a team who worked hand-in-hand with Michael Jordan to create the AIR JORDAN XX8.

"With the ongoing evolution of the game shoe, I encourage our entire function to push the boundary when it comes to design, technology and performance," said Tinker Hatfield. "The AIR JORDAN XX8 shoe really is basketball’s answer to the concept car."