1239599

This Jordan Luka 2 PE For UNC Explains The Origin Of The “Tar Heel”

Did you know "Tar Heel" is inspired by tree sap?

This Jordan Luka 2 PE For UNC Explains The Origin Of The “Tar Heel”

For Jordan Brand, storytelling is at the core of the incredible Player Exclusives made for its athletes. We’ve seen it displayed creatively through intense colors and details, like this recently-surfaced Jordan Luka 2 made for the UNC Tar Heels.

At first glance, the colors don’t seem to coordinate with what we’re accustomed to with North Carolina, because there’s hardly any of that signature powder blue beyond the school’s logo on the tongue. Jordan Brand employee @ryanmsmith72 details the reasoning behind it the bright greens, revealing the  full specs of the unexpected design.

The shoes are inspired by the origin of the “Tar Heel”, a moniker that has become closely associated with the state of North Carolina. The name is derived from tree sap that got stuck on the feet and shoes of workers in the turpentine industry. The bright greens and yellow represent the sap that is used to make turpentines and resins, while the needle graphics are inspired by pine trees. In addition to the green and yellow shades are touches of crimson red that appear on the Jumpman logo and other accents.

See the gallery of images below for a rare look at this Luka 2 PE made for UNC athletes.

Latest News

New Balance Brings Earthy "Driftwood" To The 2002R

New Balance continues to touch down with fresh 2002Rs that are perfect for colder weather fashion. While this latest arrival doesn’t feature Cordura or GORE-TEX...

by Andrew Rizzo 43 mins
17

Nike Cooks Up A "Racer Blue" Gradient On The Air Max Dn

Sneaker coverage and the industry at large operating so far in advance can often be a blessing; we can all chart what pairs we’re looking...

by Matt Varga 3 hours
173

The Nike Dunk Low Surfaces In "Light Wild Mango"

Another day, another Nike Dunk Low. The Beaverton brand’s latest Spring 2025 entry features a greyscale base and a splash of color on the Swoosh....

by Andrew Rizzo 5 hours
339