Sneakers like the Air Jordan XI don't just happen. There's a long process to it, one that starts a of 18 months before the shoe appears on shelves, one filled with false starts and fanciful ideas. What emerges from a designer's mind is slowly refined and re-worked until a plausible product is born. On the occasion of the re-retro of one of the most iconic Air Jordans of all-time - the Concord XI - the good people at Jordan gave us an exclusive look at some of Tinker Hatfield's early work on the Air Jordan XI. Recently, Tinker Hatfield shared some of his original Air Jordan XI sketches with Complex. Check out the multiple sketches Tinker created on the road to the Air Jordan 11′s completion in the gallery below to get a little peek inside the mind of a legend. (SOURCE)
Check the date: August 14, 1994. Not only was Mike retired, but the release of the Air Jordan X was still a couple months away. Still, the basic form of what would become the Air Jordan XI had already taken shape, and with two words - "shiny leather" - everything was about to change.
Same day, different colorway. While the laceless design didn't make it to market (other attempts for a laceless Jordan have been made since then, and have also failed), the carbon spring plate did. It's become a key structure in high-end basketball sneakers ever since.
Progress. Laces. The colorway is recognizable, as is the lacing system - although it wouldn't make it to the finished product. Instead, it became a key component of a shoe worn by one of MJ's teammates. 
December 8, 1994. Things start to get more recognizable. And while the sketch itself is rough, it's very cool to see how a designer - even one as accomplished as Tinker Hatfield - questions himself at every turn. This is the process.
More work from December. Every little detail worked out thoroughly. Those lace loops? They didn't "just happen" Note the high cut and the one-piece "tongue", things that changed before the official release.
Inspiration and design. Note the lawnmower in the middle. The lowly garden implement inspired the use of patent leather as a protective element. Designers are always looking for ideas, and sometimes they come from the most unlikely places.
More preliminary work. While the colorway weren't set, the palette was coming together nicely. Many at Nike remained skeptical of wether Mike would even return to basketball, but Tinker kept faith and kept working. But we suspect not even he knew how it would pay off.
New Article: Tinker Hatfield's Original Air Jordan XI Sketches
New Whip: 2013 HPE800 Twin Turbo Jeep by Hennessey Performance
Hennessey Performance (HPE) is well known for taking fast cars, trucks and SUV's and making them faster. The company will be offering their HPE800 Twin Turbo Jeep for 2013. Based on the new Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8, the crew from HPE takes the factory 6.4 L Hemi and increases displacement to 7.0 L (426 cubic inches) while adding a twin turbo forced induction system. The resulting 805 bhp and 823 lb-ft of torque will be enough to propel the HPE800 from 0-60 mph in 3.1 seconds.
Additional modifications include an upgraded transmission system and torque converter upgrade, 15.1 inch Brembo brakes front and rear, a lowered sport suspension system, lighter alloy wheels, carbon fiber front splitter and a custom leather interior with Alcantara steering wheel.
"We've built dozens of 600-800 hp Jeep SRT8s over the past five years, so we have an existing client base who will want to upgrade the new Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8 to an even higher level", said company founder and president, John Hennessey. "This vehicle is designed for the performance minded driver who lives in Aspen or Moscow and wants to be the fastest in all weather conditions."
HPE will limit production at just 24 examples with pricing starting at $235,000. (SOURCE)
2013 HPE800 Twin Turbo Jeep - Specifications:
Power:
• 805 bhp @ 5,800 rpm
• 823 bhp @ 4,000 rpm
Performance:
• 0-60 mph: 3.1 seconds
• 1/4 mile: 10.9 @ 130 mph
Includes:
• 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8
• HPE800 Twin Turbo Engine Upgrade
• Transmission Upgrade
• Torque Converter Upgrade
• HPE 20 inch Wheel Upgrade
• Custom Leather / Alcantara Interior Upgrade
• Brembo Brake System Upgrade
(6-piston calipers front and 4-piston calipers rear, 15.1 inch cross drilled rotors front and rear)
• Lowered Suspension System
• Carbon Fiber Front Lip Spoiler
• Serial Numbered Dash Plaque & Engine Compartment Plaque
New Gear: Visvim Elmendorf Jacket
The ELMENDORF JACKET is Visvim’s adaptation to the classic A-2 flight jacket that’s reproduced with Visvim’s expected premium approach. Constructed from the finest leathers, the seasonal jacket comes in a tasteful deep brown colorway and features ribbed cuffs, waist and two roomy frontal pockets. In addition to the jacket’s *F.I.L. EXCLUSIVE drop, the piece is now available from the Visvim online store. (SOURCE)
New Gear: Ferrari-Inspired Watches By Jacques Fornier
Jacques Fournier, of Horology Design Studio in the U.K., used the inspiration from several racing cars to create these edgy and striking chronometers. Comprised of a variety of materials – from stainless steel to PVD to ceramic, and available in several attractive color combinations – this is timepiece is sure to gain the stamp of approval of those who like to pimp around in flashy cars with blingin’ wristwatches hangin’ out the driver’s-side window.
New Trailer: The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey
Ready to return to Middle Earth? The first full trailer for Peter Jackson's The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey, the first part of The Hobbit adaptation, has arrived online in high def tonight via Apple; it'll also be playing in front of Tintin. It's a full trailer and, for Lord of the Rings fans. Martin Freeman stars as Bilbo, along with Ian McKellen as Gandalf, Andy Serkis as Gollum, and many others, like Richard Armitage as Thorin and James Nesbitt. The Hobbit, being directed by Peter Jackson in two separate parts, is set in Middle-earth 60 years before Tolkien's Lord of the Rings, which Jackson and his filmmaking team brought to the big screen in a trilogy ten years ago. The Hobbit films, with screenplays by Fran Walsh, Philippa Boyens, Guillermo del Toro and Peter Jackson, will be shot consecutively in digital 3D using the latest camera technology. The Hobbit follows the journey of Bilbo Baggins, played by Martin Freeman, who is swept into an epic quest to reclaim the lost Dwarf Kingdom of Erebor, which was long ago conquered by the dragon Smaug. The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey arrives in theaters in 3D on December 14, 2012.
New Article: Paula Patton Appears On GQ Magazine
In Mission: Impossible—Ghost Protocol, Paula Patton joins Tom Cruise's gang as a sexy lady-spy—as if there were any other kind—who vamps it up and gets dirty in equal measure, per the international lady-spy handbook Vamping It Up and Getting Dirty in Equal Measure: A Primer. "I was doing physical stunts," says Patton excitedly, "feet in the mud, fingernails full of dirt, shooting and fighting for my life." A cleaner, less violent Patton got her break in 2006 with a starring role in the OutKast period musical Idlewild and later played an inspiring teacher in Precious. Sadly for you, she is married to singer Robin Thicke—son of Growing Pains patriarch and proud Canadian Alan. Somehow she has figured out how to bridge the vast cultural divide between her and her in-laws: "Canadians are a lot like us, actually," Patton jokes. "I've figured out how to blend in." Spoken like a true lady-spy. Check out the pictures and video below.....
New Kicks: Nike Air Jordan 11 "Concord"
Guess who's back????? Nike with it's limited release of the Air Jordan 11 "Concord", No matter what size you’re looking for (Adult, GS, PS, Toddler, Infant), the “Concord” 11s look extremely crispy and are a definite must-have. (SOURCE) 
New Event: 2nd Annual Toast To Tots
New Video: SNL Tim Tebow Skit
Over the weekend, "Saturday Night Live" poked fun at the headlines, invoking an appearance from Jesus himself - as played by Jason Sudeikis.
The skit begins in the locker room after the Broncos' win, with Tebow thanking "the most important person in my life, my Lord and savior Jesus Christ," and lo and behold - a bearded Sudeikis appears.
"First of all, you're welcome. Yes, I Jesus Christ, am indeed the reason you've won your past six football games," he says. "Here's the thing: If we're going to keep doing this, you guys gotta meet me halfway out there. Let's face it: It's not a good week if every week, I have to come in, drop everything, and bail out the Denver Broncos in the fourth quarter. I'm a busy guy."
His other instructions to an awestruck Tebow included stretching before the game, reading the playbook, and to take his displays of faith "down a notch." This is a must watch funny video, LOL!
New Trailer: G.I. Joe Retaliation
G.I. Joe: Retaliation is the sequel that brings back only a few cast members like Channing Tatum from the original 2009 blockbuster and introduces new cast members like Dwayne Johnson, Bruce Willis, Ray Stevenson and Adrianne Palicki. If you're looking for more ridiculous action, this seems to be the film to see. Watch!
G.I. Joe 2: Retaliation is being directed by Jon M. Chu (Step Up 2 & 3D, "The LXD", Justin Bieber: Never Say Never) from a script by Zombieland writers Rhett Reese & Paul Wernick. Channing Tatum returns as Duke, along with Ray Park as Snake Eyes and Lee Byung-hun as Storm Shadow. Other newcomers to the cast include Bruce Willis as General Joseph B. Colton, Adrianne Palicki as Lady Jaye, Ray Stevenson as Firefly, Joseph Mazzello as Mouse, Arnold Vosloo as Zartan, D.J. Cotrona as Flint, and RZA as the Blind Master. Paramount is planning to release G.I. Joe: Retaliation starting on June 29th, 2012 next summer.
New Tech: Tascam iM2 Stereo Microphone For iPhone
A device that receives considerable attention from accessory makers and gadget aficionados alike, the Apple iPhone and similar iOS devices are often neglected when it comes to third-party audio input options. Traditionally left to rely on its built-in microphone for less-than-impressive audio quality, professional audio manufacturer Tascam introduces a new option for iOS enthusiasts via its iM2 Stereo Microphone. The conspicuous mechanism amps up your device’s sub-par sound with a powerhouse of two high quality, adjustable condenser microphones, an internal microphone pre-amp, and analog-to-digital converter.
Forgoing reliance on the built-in iPhone preamp, the iM2 is capable of handling up to 125dB sound levels to accurately capture the loudest concerts and instruments without distortion. Also contained within the iM2, a stereo limiter balances and tames sudden loud noises and sounds. Tascam also went the extra step to include the convenience of a USB input to charge your Apple iOS device through those potentially long recordings. The Tascam iM2 Stereo Microphone is now available online Price:$80.00. (SOURCE)
New Video: Shaq's TNT "Inside The NBA" Big Entrance (Must Watch)
If you need another reason to be happy that the NBA lockout is finally over well here you go; Don't miss out on the chance to discover whether Shaquille O'Neal's sharp sense of humor translates to television.
O'Neal, the 15-time All-Star center who spent the final season of his career with the Celtics, has joined Turner Sports to serve as an analyst across its various NBA platforms. Most notably, he will become a full-time analyst on TNT's popular studio show "Inside The NBA," joining host Ernie Johnson and analysts Kenny Smith and Charles Barkley.
“Shaq knows the game and, on and off the floor, he has always been entertaining; a guy who gets it," Johnson said in a press release. "Obviously, I know I’m going to have to eat before I get to the studio.”
Chris Webber and Kevin McHale appeared on the program as guest analysts last season. McHale has moved on to coach the Houston Rockets. Webber will continue as an analyst on NBA TV, also a Turner Sports property.
O'Neal's role on TNT extends beyond his studio duties -- and even the realm of sports. He will contribute to NBA TV and NBA.com, providing analysis and commentary throughout the regular season, postseason, All-Star festivities, and the draft. His deal also includes a development agreement with Turner's entertainment and animation networks.
But the coup for TNT is bringing him aboard "Inside The NBA." The chemistry on the program between Johnson, Smith, and Barkley has made the five-time Emmy-winning program arguably the best sports studio show on television. O'Neal outsized personality may change the dynamic somewhat, but the interaction between the charismatic O'Neal and the outrageous and hilarious Barkley should make for compelling television, presuming they get along better than they did here:
New Kicks: Supra Corona Cuttler
Earlier this month Supra and Corona presented their new collaborative effort entitled the Supra “Corona Cuttler". It features a mainly white canvas SupraTUF upper with minimal blue and gold hints throughout the base. An emblazoned Corona bottle appears on the inside of the tongue and a full-length Corona Extra bottle is spotted under the transparent sole. Additionally, both sides incorporated a lime wedge hang tag/bottle opener. Sadly, the Corona x Supra Cuttler, which was created to the tune of 200 pairs, is not available to the public. With these new kicks giving you the best of both worlds, what's not to like!
New Video: Alec Baldwin On Saturday Night Live
When the going gets tough, Alec Baldwin goes to “Saturday Night Live.”
The “30 Rock” funnyman, who was kicked off an American Airlines flight last Tuesday for refusing to turn off his cell phone while playing the game Words With Friends, had a few words to share with his SNL friends – and fans.
Dressed as pilot Captain Steve Rogers, Baldwin joined Seth Myers for SNL’s Weekend Update to extend a heartfelt apology for the incident to, well, himself.
“It was awful Seth,” mustachioed Captain Rogers said. “Which is why it was important for me to come here and on behalf of everyone at American Airlines, issue an apology to Mr. Alec Baldwin!”
“Mr. Baldwin is an American treasure!”
Like any keen interviewer, Myers kept the questions about the star’s tantrum coming.
“It was also reported that Alec Baldwin slammed the bathroom door so loudly it could be heard in the cockpit?”
“Now Seth, Words with Friends can be frustrating,” Captain Rogers explained. “But when you think you’re about to play 'jailers' off of somebody's 'quiche' and you realize you don’t have the ‘i’ - let me tell you - that would make you slam the door too!”
“Don’t phones interfere with the plane’s communication system?” Myers asked.
“Oh, you don’t believe that, do you, Seth? Would you really get on an airplane that flies 30,000 feet in the air if you thought a Kindle switch would bring it down? Come on it’s just a cruel joke perpetrated by the airline industry.”
While Baldwin had America in stitches, American Airlines may not take so kindly to the surprise skit, considering personnel have already asked the airline to remove “30 Rock” as in-flight entertainment, requested that Baldwin be put on an internal no-fly list and suggested he also be fined by the FAA.
"It has not been proven that electronic devices do not interfere with safety sensitive systems of the aircraft, especially at critical times of flight, taxi, take-off and landing," American Airlines flight attendant Lonny Glover, a safety and security expert with the Association of Professional Flight Attendants, told the Daily News.
"We do not want to risk the safety, fellow passengers and crew by playing a word game on an iPad, sending that last text, reading that last paragraph of your E-book," he said.
STORY BY: BY NANCY DILLON & AMANDA MIKELBERG / NEW YORK DAILY NEWS
New Trailer: The Three Stooges
The Three Stooges is written & directed by filmmaking brothers Bobby & Peter Farrelly, of the comedies including Dumb & Dumber, Kingpin, There's Something About Mary, Shallow Hal, The Heartbreak Kid and Hall Pass. Inspired by the original "Three Stooges" shorts from the 1930s, the storyline will follow the trio from when they're orphans and into adulthood. The film will be divided into three half-hour shorts, and the Stooges will get mixed up in plots involving murder and a reality show. In addition to Diamantopoulos, Hayes and Sasso, the supporting cast includes Jane Lynch, Larry David, SofÃa Vergara, Jennifer Hudson and Stephen Collins. Fox is bringing the new Three Stooges to theaters everywhere April 4th, 2012.
New Tech: iCam Concept
The iCam is an imaginary device by Italian designer Antonio DeRosa, whose concept might change the way amateur photogs take, edit, and share pictures. The iCam attaches to an iPhone, which gives users the convenience of snapping shots on their on phone and the capability of a DLSR with interchangeable lenses. Other iCam features would include a front touch screen and a projector to splash photos and videos across any surface you’d like. (SOURCE)
New Gear: GQ Magazine December Selects
Each month, the editors of GQ select a series of items from the magazine and make them available through online retailer Park & Bond. Here's what you'll find for December
We put this on our cover with Justin Timberlake. What I really love about this suit is a Calvin suit’s fit is just spectacular. It’s such a modern suit and when I say that, it’s for the guy that doesn’t necessarily want to go the business route or the pinstripe. There’s something beautiful about the lapel and the way the notches drop slightly and the button stance is slightly lower, which makes it sexier. The pants are naturally slim. Italo Zucchelli has perfected the modern American suit. This is a heightened blue, not the blackish navy that's been around in the past. There’s a luster to it because it has mohair in it. The light picks up on it. It’s a great suit for the holidays because it’s something you can wear to a party, almost even a black tie, but the fabric is light enough for spring." Price:$1095.00
It's the perfect component, marriage to the blue suit. It's pretty void of details. You'll see there's no breast pocket in the suit or no pocket in the shirt—he's a minimalist. There's a cleanliness to it. They wash incredibly well, they don't turn yellow, they don't have elastin in them to give them stretch, they're just a perfect fit. He offers them in sleeve length, which is a great thing for guys when buying dress shirts because so often it's just about the neck size. It's a perfect one-two punch to buy the suit and the shirt. Price:$195
What's good about these is sometimes when you go into jean specialized brand shops, they can be a little overwhelming. Diesel does a god job of marketing their jeans so the retail experience is well-curated. There are five styles. There will be three to fit your body type. This is their slim straight. They do super skinny and skin-tight, but we like a slim jean. Diesel is Italian, they have the best distressing plants, there's a bit of a Euro flair to it (not literally at the bottom), but it gives it a patina. They're the kings of premium denim—they were, after all, among the first to offer a $200 pair of jeans. Now it feels like that's the norm.
This is the tee we put on Jay-Z in the picture of him smiling. It's a double-neck and Neil Barrett has always put a couple of trompe l'oeil pieces in his collection. One season he did a T-shirt with suspenders. A couple seasons ago, he did grey T-shirts with another neck sewn into them. It's a head-turner, but it's also subtle. It's one example of how, Neil being a modernist, has taken the classic tee and given it a little oomph. Here's to people not thinking that you can take a T-shirt and make it anything but basic. We love the fit, too. It has a teeny bit of an anti-fit. We put an XL on Jay-Z and it fit him so well. Price:$185
We started saying this last summer and early fall, the idea that most guys understand a loafer and the sockless thing, but they don't think to put them away for fall. This loafer has a high vamp and elegance. You put this with purple socks and a grey suit, you're good to go. The penny loafers of yesteryear had shorter vamps and a much more rounded toe and the beefier roll on the side. They were a much more casual thing and thought to be worn with khakis and jeans. This is as dressy a loafer can get. There are a lot of people out there doing these loafers and it's really for the guy who prefers a loafer. Sometimes I love a loafer because it gets you out quickly, you're instantly dressed. This will hold up to the most elegant suit. Price: $475
These are the sunglasses on Jay-Z and I love these Oliver Peoples because there's incredible quality. It has a retro look, but we're past the point of Wayfarer culture. This has a bit more refinement and that slight keyhole opening, which means the nosepiece will look good on everybody. I love the smoky black lenses. It's very stealth-like, but there's something classic about it. It reminds me of something I'd see in The Talented Mr. Ripley. Sometimes it's the subtle ones that look the coolest. And we love a much more rounded sunglass going forward for fall and spring. I think a lot of times when people wear those strong sunglasses, they're great, but the sunglasses are wearing you. With these, you're in control and you look subtle but cool. Price: $325
Posts
