The Nike Ja 2 'Murray State' Features a Cut-Away Mesh Upper, Nike AF1 'Shanghai' Fuses Nubuck and Patent Leather

The Nike Ja 2 “Murray State” features a unique cut-away mesh upper, offering a fresh take on Ja Morant’s signature line. Meanwhile, Nike’s Air Force 1 “Shanghai” fuses nubuck and patent leather for a striking contrast, and is expected to be released during Holiday 2024.

Nike Ja 2 ‘Murray State’ Reveals Cut-Away Mesh Upper and Refined Design Tied to Morant's Grizzlies

The fall season always brings a wave of new signature basketball shoes, with brands vying for fans’ attention. Among the most anticipated releases is Ja Morant’s Nike Ja 2. While early retailer images showed the shoe, new in-hand looks at the Nike Ja 2 “Murray State” have recently surfaced, revealing more details.

According to Sneaker News, the standout feature of this edition is its double mesh upper, which covers a claw-mark safari print with a semi-translucent fabric layer. Jagged light blue and chrome elements tie the design to Morant’s Memphis Grizzlies. Compared to the Ja 1, this iteration offers a more refined color palette, incorporating earthy light brown tones. Other Ja 2 models, like the “Halloween,” “Stargazer,” and “Christmas”editions, have also showcased unique designs with plush graphics, synthetic materials, and reflective prints.

It remains unclear when the Ja 2 “Murray State” will launch, but its recent appearance suggests an imminent release.

Nike Air Force 1 ‘Shanghai’ Fuses Nubuck and Patent Leather in Bold Design for Holiday 2024

In addition to Ja Morant’s line, Nike is continuing its “City Pack” collection with the Air Force 1 “Seoul” and a forthcoming “Shanghai” edition for Holiday 2024. Official images of the “Shanghai” model provide a detailed look at the design.

The shoe contrasts thick “Flax” nubuck overlays with vibrant “Light Crimson” patent leather on the toe box and quarter panel. A semi-translucent gum sole nods to the Air Force 1 CO.JP “Wheat” from 2001, while black ballistic fabric on the Swoosh and backtab adds a unique texture. Branding elements include:

• A leather tongue label.
• “Nike Air” stitching on the heel.
• A star lace dubrae referencing the Chinese flag.

The Air Force 1 "Shanghai" is expected to arrive during the 2024 holiday season and will retail for $150.