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History Of Air Jordan Franchise
Before the AIR JORDAN, all basketball shoes were white. This simple statement only begins to describe the sheer magnitude of the changes that were about to occur to the sport of basketball and to the athletic footwear industry once Michael Jordan entered the league. Since Michael’s arrival and the launch of the AIR JORDAN franchise, both the game and the industry have been utterly transformed.
Each year, a new AIR JORDAN is unveiled. An annual event since its debut in 1985, each unveiling has been met with ever-increasing anticipation from the media, the industry, and the buying public. AIR JORDANs perennially dominate the market in sales and demand, establishing with each year’s model higher benchmark standards in design, innovation and performance for the entire athletic footwear industry. At the heart of the franchise is the perfect synergy between athlete and technology – Michael Jordan, the greatest player in the history of basketball, and the shoes he’s worn throughout his illustrious career that epitomize his relentless dedication to performance, innovation and achievement.
Today’s AIR JORDANs continue to build on the franchise’s rich history of innovative design and uncompromising performance. Inspired by the greatest to ever play the game, the franchise continues to lead and shape the athletic footwear industry into the future. As Michael’s legend continues to grow, his legacy in the AIR JORDAN franchise lives on.
Air Jordan 1: 1984-1985
AIR JORDAN II: 1986-87
The ’86-87 season is a breakthrough year for MJ, and his assault on the record books begins. Along with a return trip to the All-Star game, Michael wins his first Slam Dunk Contest and claims his first in a series of scoring titles. Averaging 37.1 points per game, he becomes the first NBA player since Wilt Chamberlain to top 3,000 points in a season. And he does it all in a pair of embossed leather kicks made by the master shoemakers of Italy.
AIR JORDAN III: 1987-88
With big time innovation and lethal good looks, this is the first shoe designed by Tinker Hatfield and features visible Nike Air and decorative synthetic elephant skin. Another milestone design element is the introduction of the iconic Jumpman logo. This is the season in which Spike Lee as “Mars Blackmon” makes his first appearance in Nike television ads, sparking a huge cult following. MJ steals the show this season by snagging his first NBA MVP award, Defensive Player of the Year honors, and another Slam Dunk trophy. In an interview with SLAM magazine, Michael cites the AJIII as one of his all-time favourites and in 2005 viewers of ESPN agreed, voting it the greatest sneaker of all time.
Air Jordan IV (4): 1988-89
As cool as its breathable mesh inserts and featuring super-steady stabilization straps and ultra-cushioned soles, Tinker Hatfield creates a sneaker custommade for fluidity, rhythm and grace. Michael makes it a reality with a series of gravity-defying dunks which, along with the distinctive tongues, were fast becoming a trademark. Spike once again pays fond homage when he features the AJIV in a scene from his movie “Do The Right Thing”, while more recently rapper Slick Rick announces his intention to purchase the entire 2006 retro line. With the IV, AIR JORDANs truly enter the modern cultural lexicon.
AIR JORDAN V (5): 1989-90
With fit-enhancing lace locks, reflective tongue and clear rubber outsoles for sole-to-the-hole traction, MJ and Hatfield once again surpass previous designs with these new innovations. Michael pilots his way to a career high 69 points against Cleveland and his fourth scoring total with an average of 33.6 points per game. Design inspiration came from World War II Mustang fighter planes, as seen in the shark teeth profile on the midsole.
Air Jordan VI (6): 1990-91
After seven years in the league, Michael leads the Chicago Bulls to a 4-1 victory over Magic Johnson’s LA Lakers for their first NBA championship. It would be a fitting ‘passing of the torch’ from the dominant Showtime team of the ‘80s to MJ’s and the Bulls’ dominance of the ‘90s. Along the way, he snags his fifth scoring title, his second league MVP Award, another NBA All-Star placing and is awarded the Finals MVP.
Air Jordan VII (7): 1991-92
With a form-fitting neoprene sock liner, the AIR JORDAN VII gives new meaning to the word ‘comfort’. Meanwhile, the Bulls dominate the 1991-92 season and Michael continues to redefine the game of basketball and make it his own. What to do for an encore? ‘His Airness’ laces up this year’s model for a second championship ring and his sixth scoring title, not to mention a short hop over to Barcelona to collect some highly prized Olympic Gold as part of the USA’s legendary ‘Dream Team’.
Air Jordan VIII (8): 1992-93
AIR JORDAN VIII is the first to feature anti-inversion cross-over leather, Velcro straps and thickened padding for added support and stability. The VIII is only issued in three different color combinations, making it one of the franchise’s most sought after. Michael enters the ’93 playoffs in highflying fashion, setting a Finals scoring record and lighting up the Suns for 41.0 ppg on his way to claiming his third consecutive title.
Air Jordan IX (9): 1993-94
Nine years of refinement produces this minimalist classic, complete with an outsole featuring symbols and languages of numerous countries. Michael helps design it and loves it unreservedly, yet for the first time never wears it in competition. Its November 1993 release follows his retirement the previous month following back-to-back-to-back championships and countless individual awards and accolades. MJ turns to pursue a childhood dream and embarks on a minor league baseball career. Naturally, the AJIX is redesigned as a baseball cleat.
Air Jordan X (10): 1994-95
The comeback shoe. It’s dunk déjà vu as Michael returns from the diamond for a return flight to the top. He issues a two-word press release to the world’s media: “I’m back.” Boasting full-length Nike Air cushioning, full grain leather uppers, speed lacing and an outsole listing the main man’s major hardwood feats, AJX is also issued in different colorways for different US cities.
Air Jordan XI (11): 1995-96
Michael’s intuitive insight of bringing a “formal look” to the court serves as the inspiration for this remarkable rendition. Worn during his full return in the 1995-96 season, the XI quickly becomes one of the most popular AIR JORDANs of all-time. In another bold innovative step, the AJXI features patent leather for the first time in an athletic shoe, and a ‘secret weapon’ carbon-fibre spring plate and polymer-coated upper that refuses to stretch or lose its shape through MJ’s 72-win season and a fourth NBA title. MJ becomes only the second player ever to be crowned MVP for the season, the All-Star Game, and the Finals in a single season.
Air Jordan XII (12): 1996-97
The first AIR JORDANs to utilize Zoom Air Technology for lightweight cushioning and lightning quick responsiveness. MJ wears them as he scores 38 points against the Utah Jazz, including a three pointer in the dying seconds, despite being so ill with the flu he has to be helped off the floor after the game by teammate Scottie Pippen. Using the Japanese rising sun as the inspiration, the Air Jordan XII features flowing lines reminiscent of the sending out its morning rays. The XII released in 1996 and 1997 in five mid-top colorways.
Air Jordan XIII (13): 1997-98
Extremely lightweight and responsive, the XIII takes its design inspiration from the black panther, and, of course, from Michael’s predatory nature and catlike quickness on the court. The shoe features sleek Zoom Air, a unique Jumpman hologram that mimics the panther’s eye, and a carbon-fiber spring plate for more pounce in the paint. This season’s finale sees perhaps MJ’s most famous shot, in Game 6 of the Finals against Utah. (He actually wore an early release of the AIR JORDAN XIV in that game.) It proves to be the game winner, handing the Bulls their third consecutive Championship. Chicago becomes the first team in NBA history to repeat the three-peat.
Air Jordan XIV (14): 1998-99
Another leap of innovative design and engineering, the AJXIV is a high performance luxury ride, made of full-grain leather and featuring Zoom Air cushioning and medial air vents for breathability. Inspired by Michael’s love of cars, the AJ XIV takes on the stylish design of his very own Ferrari 550 M. Now elevated to iconic status thanks to MJ’s accomplishments, many collectors and sneaker experts rate the XIV as the most comfortable AIR Jordans ever.
Air Jordan XV (15): 1999-00
With a unique woven upper and aerodynamic design, the XV is inspired by two high-flyers: Michael Jordan and the ultra-fast X-15 fighter jet. The XV is inscribed with “23/6/15” down the heel in recognition of MJ’s jersey number/ championships won/model number of AIR JORDAN. Despite Michael’s absence from the game, this design proved to be as popular as ever.
Air Jordan XVI (16): 2000-01
Combining some of the AIR JORDAN franchise’s most coveted features, the AJXVI represents ‘transition’, with a squarer toe, a return to visible Air and a unique, removable gaiter that transforms the XVI from a street shoe into a game shoe. Designed for high performance, the XVI draws stylistic inspiration from automobiles, architecture and Michael’s move from the court to the front office as President of Basketball Operations with the Washington Wizards.
Air Jordan XVII (17): 2001-02
The comeback shoe (again). In anticipation of another return to the game he loves, Michael plays a pivotal role in the design of the XVII. The most expensive AIR JORDANs ever produced, this shoe is inspired by the characteristics of jazz – solid fundamentals, dazzling runs and lots of room for improvisation. At Washington, Michael reminds the world that he can still dunk. He scores his 30,000th career point against his former team, the Chicago Bulls. The XVII comes in a metal case and includes an interactive CD-ROM.
Air Jordan XVIII (18): 2002-03
Saving one of the best for last, the XVIII with its radical one-piece upper and Comfort Control Plate, is worn by Michael Jordan on April 16, 2003 for his last game in the NBA.
MJ’s last game shoe also has many firsts. Inspired by Italian high-performance racing cars, the XVIII employs a virtual one-piece upper in addition to a patented carbon fiber Comfort Control Plate and dual-layer Zoom Air cushioning.
Air Jordan XIX (19): 2003-04
Air Jordan XX (20): 2004-05
Officially available in retail stores on February 19th, the Air Jordan XX is the most technologically advanced basketball shoe in the world, underscoring Jordan’s innovation platform and performance capabilities. Crafted by legendary shoe designer Tinker Hatfield, the motorcycle-inspired shoe weaves design and technology with the patented Independent Podular Suspension (IPS) and a laser-etched strap that includes over 200 icons, creating a tapestry of stories connected to Michael Jordan’s unparalleled life and career.
“The Air Jordan XX is a reflection and celebration of my life and career over the past two decades. It’s always been more than just a shoe to me,” said Michael Jordan. “I’m honored that even after 20 years, my loyal fans and friends have continued to support me and the legacy of Air Jordan.”
“I’m excited and honored to be working again with Michael Jordan,” says Hatfield, who designed the Air Jordan III through XV. “Every time we collaborate, we always try to take the shoe to the next level and do what’s never been done before. Because the shoe celebrates MJ’s past, but is technologically designed for the future, I definitely think we got it right again.”
Air Jordan XXI (21): 2005-6
Available for retail on February 18 for $175, the Air Jordan XXI begins a new generation of sophisticated style and cutting edge technology. The Bentley-inspired shoe now comes with an even more advanced Independent Podular Suspension (IPS) technology that allows you to customize the cushioning support. Aesthetically, the Air Jordan XXI includes personal design elements from Michael Jordan himself, echoing his “DNA” – or characteristics – that make up his outstanding on-court performance and off-court persona. The shoe remains the most performance-enhancing on the market and is poised to lead the widely popular Air Jordan franchise well into the future.
“With last year’s Air Jordan XX, we looked back and celebrated the past twenty years,” says Michael Jordan, “The Air Jordan XXI is a look toward the future. We’re making the shoe more luxurious and more advanced in terms of technology, which sets the stage for the brand going into the next twenty years.”
“It is always an honor to work with Michael Jordan and design in true collaboration with him,” states Footwear Design Director D’Wayne Edwards, “We kept both his style and the true Jordan consumer in mind when we designed the shoe, continuing our tradition of creating technologically-superior basketball footwear.”
Air Jordan XX2 (22) – 2007-08
Like prior Air Jordans, the design of the Air Jordan 22 (XX2 or XXII) was inspired by a work of art off of the court. Previous models were designed after such things as Michael’s own Ferrari, the X-15 fighter jet, and even the P-51 Mustang. The Air Jordan 22 (XX2 or XXII) took inspiration from one of the most advanced fighter jets in the world – the F-22 Raptor.
Like Mike, the F-22 Raptor is equally as threatening offensively as defensively. Combine the F-22’s speed of 1600 mph as well as being a stealth jet and you have paralleled qualities Mike had on the court.
The design of the upper has sharp lines which takes inspiration from the sharp maneuverability of the F-22 Raptor. The Air Jordan 22 (XX2 or XXII) features zig-zag stitching similar to that of the F-22 which helps conceal the jet from enemy radar. On the shoes, this stitching helps provide a well produced shoe with lasting quality. Lastly, one cannot miss the distinct yet stylish 3M reflective material on the back of the shoe which lights up the court in the lowest level of light.
Fit and Protection:
The Air Jordan 22 (XX2 or XXII) incorporates several crucial properties providing the athlete with the best fit and protection. The shoe boasts the best ankle history of any Air Jordan to date. The shoes have a variable speed lacing system coupled with titanium lace loops as well as a durable titanium lace lock. Next, the Air Jordan 22 has air vents like the F-22; however, rather than being used for stability while flying at Mach 2.4, these vents provide an escape for heat. The heel on the Air Jordan 22 (XX2 or XXII) is like no other. The diamond shape and extended heel counter protects even the most vulnerable athlete from a rolled heel. Lastly, in the past the Air Jordans have had a carbon fiber shank plate to provide midfoot stability, but for the Air Jordan 22 (XX2 or XXII) the shank plate is made of titanium. This shank is not only stronger, but also lighter weight. Oh yeah, the atomic number for titanium (Ti) is 22.
Cushioning:
The Air Jordan 22 (XX2 or XXII) takes with it the cushioning system of choice from the last two Air Jordans. The IPS (Independent Podular Suspension) returns with a new feature – its visible. This time the IPS is color coded so the athlete can choose his cushioning for each pod with either a responsive, double stacked Zoom Air pod, or a shock absorbing encapsulated air. In addition to the custom fit cushioing the IPS provides, the Air Jordan 22 (XX2 or XXII) also has a Phylon midsole to provide extra cushioning without adding extra weight.
Traction:
The first thing one will notice about the Air Jordan 22 (XX2 or XXII) is how translucent the clear part of the sole is. The clear sole sticks to the court making it possible to make cuts and stops like no other. With a podular like outsole, one can make moves on the court better than ever before.
Air Jordan XX3 (23) 2008-09
In 1985, the entire world stood on its ear with the release of the AIR JORDAN—a white, red and black fashion statement that revolutionized the athletic footwear industry. Much like Michael Jordan in his rookie season, the original AIR JORDAN was the beginning of something legendary. From Rucker Park to Park Avenue, from Hollywood to Wall Street, the AIR JORDAN sneaker has consistently been the most sought after athletic luxury basketball shoe. Sneaker enthusiasts have credited the shoe as the impetus behind “sneakerhead” collectible market. Twenty-three shoes later, the Jordan Brand introduces a product truly worthy of being called the “Greatest Basketball Shoe Ever,” the AIR JORDAN XX3, is poised to tilt the world once again.
For each iteration of AIR JORDANs created, inspiration is everything. The F-22 stealth fighter jet served as inspiration for the XX2. The muse behind the design of the XIII was the Black Panther and the XIV paid homage to the Ferrari 550 M. The AIR JORDAN XX3 simply embodies the belief held by Michael Jordan and Tinker Hatfield, Vice President, Innovation Design & Special Projects, that the AIR JORDAN XX3 must be the best ever. To accomplish this, new technological advances were built into the shoe to create the first Nike Considered, high-performance basketball shoe in NIKE, Inc. history in a beautiful handcrafted silhouette the world has ever seen.
In the spirit of sustainability, the AIR JORDAN XX3 is the first basketball shoe for Nike to embrace the Nike Considered design ethos, where details in the development and design of the shoe seek to reduce waste and allow for the use of environmentally preferred materials wherever possible—all without compromising athletic performance. The Nike Considered design ethos is one of several company-wide corporate responsibility targets that NIKE, Inc. has implemented to sustain long-term growth and innovation.
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