The beloved Air Jordan 12 “Obsidian” was originally released in February of 1997, and later re-released on in 2012. But before the shoe was officially released, Jordan Brand almost went in a different direction by releasing an Air Jordan 12 Obsidian Nubuck version. Something similar to the “Flu Game” Air Jordan 12s from 2009.

Today, we take a detailed look at the Air Jordan 12 Obsidian Nubuck Sample model that features a nubuck upper with textured leather overlays. Aside from switching out the original leather build with nubuck, all the other details and accents remain the same.

What do you guys think of this sample? Are you happy Jordan Brand didn’t release these back in 2012, or would you rather have these over the retail version? Let us know in the comments section.

This promo sample is currently available via eBay.