Shoe Review: Jordan V.2 Grown

Before I get into the nitty-gritty details of this shoe, I must say that, as a rule, I have never been one who approves of wearing sneakers to formal occasions (weddings, graduations, Church, and the like). This is mostly because up until lately, sneakers were inherently casual wear, and when mixed with slacks, a jacket, and a tie, inevitably looked sloppy. One of the biggest contributors to this appearance, I think, is the (over)use of vulcanized soles, a point that can be argued and explained in length equivalent to a series of posts, so let’s not go there. Along with the sole is the overall design of a sneaker versus the design of loafers and other dressier shoes.

However, that rule has recently been amended by these shoes: the new(ish) Jordan V.2 Grown.

Coming with a new all-black patent leather upper extension, these are not your every day sneakers; these are elegantly formal shoes. (I’m waiting for the opportunity when I can abide by my amendment and wear them with a tux.) Even in spite of the soles, the combination of upper extension and tucked woven waxed laces give this shoe a clean, classy look, without sacrificing comfortable feet.

Keep an eye out for more colors to come—as of now, Jordan has released seven colors, with two more on the way (a burgundy denim in August, and a grey suede with an electric “chlorine blue-spark” sole in February): http://www.nike.com/jumpman23/index.html#footwear/414174-601?cid=414174-601