The history of the Air Jordan is one of the most interesting in the world of sneakers. Since their creation in 1984, these shoes have left an indelible mark on urban culture and have become an undisputed icon in the world of basketball.
In fact, their name will always be linked to Michael Jordan, a figure who promoted the revolutionary impact that their entry into the global market represented.
Over the years, a series of milestones have occurred that explain their enormous popularity and legacy. Today, in this new article from Newcop, we will review each one to thoroughly understand the journey of these models that we love so much.
Keep reading and join us on this journey through time.
Great milestones in the history of the Jordan
The history of the Air Jordan is full of momentous events that have led the Nike sub-brand to achieve success year after year over these four decades. Beyond their design and manufacturing, we are talking about sneakers that have had an important social impact.
Since their inception, they have been at the center of controversies and advertising campaigns that marked a before and after in the sector. Today, the Air Jordan are synonymous with quality and distinction within the industry. But their path to the present day has not been easy.
First Air Jordan
As we told you in the introduction, in 1984, Nike launched the first Air Jordan, known as the Air Jordan 1. They were designed by the creative Peter Moore and featured an innovative and groundbreaking style compared to the traditional basketball sneakers of the time.
Its design caught immediate attention, but it was the connection with Michael Jordan that truly turned them into a cultural phenomenon and was responsible for generating an impact that crossed borders.
Michael Jordan
At that time, Michael Jordan was just a young and talented basketball player from the University of North Carolina. Nike's firm commitment secured sponsorship with one of the NBA's gems who ultimately became the greatest player of all time.
This deal gave him the opportunity to have his own line of sneakers, becoming the first player to have exclusive footwear. Undoubtedly a perfect bet by the brand, whose impact was enormous.
From that moment on, the Air Jordan became a extension of Jordan's personality and playing style, and each new model was eagerly awaited.
Air Jordan III
The next milestone in the history of the Air Jordan came in 1988 with the release of the Air Jordan III. Designed by Tinker Hatfield, these sneakers featured revolutionary elements, such as the famous air cushion in the heel, which provided greater comfort and support.
Additionally, the Air Jordan III were the first to feature the iconic Jumpman logo, which has become the brand's distinctive emblem. An image representing one of the mythical dunks of the basketball icon, soaring over the court with a jump few athletes can reach.
Air Jordan XI: Greatness in space
Back in 1995, Nike launched the Air Jordan XI, a model that quickly became one of the most successful in the line. Also designed by Tinker Hatfield, these sneakers stood out for their transparent sole.
Also, the Air Jordan XI were the ones Michael Jordan wore during his return to the NBA, after his brief retirement to play baseball. As expected, demand broke all predicted estimates.
Air Jordans in the new millennium
In the 21st century, Air Jordans have maintained their status as one of the pillars of sneaker culture. Over the years, the brand has continued innovating and releasing new models that have captivated basketball fans and footwear lovers alike.
Many of them have been reissues or inspirations from classic models, and the history of the Air Jordan has left such an important legacy that all these adaptations always have a place in the market.
In fact, recently the Air movie was released, which precisely deals with the fascinating origin of this emblematic brand.
3 iconic Air Jordan models
At Newcop, you can find some of the iconic Air Jordan models that hold a privileged place among collectors. One of them is the Air Jordan 1 Retro High Satin Snake Chicago, which combines the classic Air Jordan 1 structure with a striking satin design and details that mimic snake skin.
Another standout model is the Air Jordan 4 Retro Red Thunder, which features a combination of vibrant colors and a modern design. What stands out the most is the contrast of intense red with black, as well as its robust appearance and the characteristic air unit.
Finally, we recommend the Air Jordan 11 Retro Cool Grey, sneakers designed with a grey suede upper and a translucent sole that reveals the brand's logo. The result is a perfect balance between elegance and comfort.
These are just some of the options you can find on our website, but we invite you to take a look to discover all the models we have for you. And if you liked this post, you will surely want to discover also the history of the New Balance brand that we covered on our blog.
