Air Jordan Eclipse Plate Explained: How It Works & Which Shoes to Buy

Quick answer: The Eclipse Plate is a stiff, lightweight plate that Jordan Brand first used in the Air Jordan 34 (2019). It covers a hollow space in the middle of the sole, so the shoe needs less foam. That keeps it light and stable, while Zoom Air cushioning adds a springy feel. The Air Jordan 35 (2020) updated it to Eclipse Plate 2.0. Those models are older now, so if you want that light, responsive feel in a new pair, look at today's Jordan performance basketball shoes. Most fit snug and true to size.

Most basketball shoes use a thick slab of foam under your foot. Foam is comfortable, but it adds weight, and too much can feel mushy when you cut or jump. For the Air Jordan 34, Jordan Brand cut a hollow space into the middle of the sole and bridged it with a stiff plate: the Eclipse Plate.

The plate keeps the middle of your foot stable and stops the shoe from twisting. The Zoom Air cushioning gives you a springy feel when you land and push off. With less foam, the shoe is lighter too. The Air Jordan 35 updated the idea with Eclipse Plate 2.0 and a full-length Zoom Air Strobel, which means the cushioning is stitched right under your foot so you feel it faster.

Players moving from retro Jordans to modern performance models often ask if the new tech really feels different.

JD Expert Question: Will I feel a difference between a plate-and-Zoom Jordan and a retro Jordan when I play?

JD Expert Answer: Yes. A modern Jordan with a midfoot plate and Zoom Air feels lighter, lower to the ground and quicker to respond. When you cut hard, the plate helps keep the shoe from twisting. Retro Jordans feel heavier and firmer. They're great for everyday style, but they weren't built for how the game is played today. If you play often, a modern performance model is the better pick.

• Cushioning:

• Modern (plate and Zoom Air): Springy and responsive, built for quick jumps and cuts.

• Retro (Air units in foam): Good impact protection, but a slower, firmer feel.

• Weight:

• Modern: Lighter, thanks to less foam and thinner uppers.

• Retro: Heavier, with thick leather uppers and rubber soles. Best for everyday wear, not hard games.

• Air Jordan 34 and 35: These were the Eclipse Plate models. They're older releases now, so new pairs are hard to find.
• Today's Jordan performance shoes: For a new pair with a light, responsive feel, look at current Air Jordan flagship models and Jordan signature lines like the Luka and Tatum shoes. Shop men's basketball shoes at JD Sports.
• Retro Jordans: Pick these for style and everyday wear rather than serious games. See Jordan retro shoes.

• Most players: Buy your true size. Performance Jordans are built to fit snug so your foot doesn't slide.
• Wide feet: Try a half size up, or look for a wide version if one is offered.
• Vs. retro Jordans: Performance models usually feel snugger than retros in the same size.
• Socks matter: Try them on with the thick basketball socks you play in.

• What is the Jordan Eclipse Plate? It's a stiff plate over a hollow midfoot, first used in the Air Jordan 34. It keeps the shoe light and stable.
• Which Jordans have the Eclipse Plate? The Air Jordan 34 (Eclipse Plate) and the Air Jordan 35 (Eclipse Plate 2.0).
• Are retro Jordans good for playing basketball? They work for casual shootarounds, but modern performance Jordans are lighter and more responsive for real games.
• Do Jordan basketball shoes run true to size? Most do, but they fit snug. Wide feet should try a half size up.

Who should buy a modern Jordan performance shoe?

• For players who play often: Choose a current Jordan performance model with plate and Zoom Air style tech for a light, quick feel.
• For style and everyday wear: Choose a retro Jordan instead.
• Ready to shop? Browse men's basketball shoes or all Jordan shoes at JD Sports.

• Nike Product Information: Details on the Eclipse Plate, Eclipse Plate 2.0 and Zoom Air cushioning in the Air Jordan 34 and 35.
• Brand History: Background on Jordan Brand's performance basketball line.
• Independent Reviews: On-court wear tests of plate-and-Zoom Jordan performance shoes.
• JD Sports Fit Feedback: Sizing and comfort feedback from JD Sports store teams across North America.