At a recent Sotheby’s auction, a pair of Air Jordan sneakers sold for a record-breaking $560,000.
Michael Jordan has changed the way we look at sneakers.
This brand has made billions of dollars for both the shoe industry and the man with his name on the label.
Whether you are a collector or a fan, there are several bits of trivia about Air Jordan shoes you may find fascinating.
Read on to discover 7 facts about Jordans every sneakerhead should know.
1) The First Pair
The first pair of Air Jordans released in 1984 when MJ signed with Nike. The kicks, designed by Peter C. Moore, sported a black and red color scheme.
Though many originally thought the shoes were ugly, once the superstar laced them up and dominated on the court, they became iconic.
2) The Sneakers Were Banned by the NBA
It didn’t take long for the NBA to notice Jordan’s new sneakers. He was playing for the Chicago Bulls at the time. Though shoes were black and red, the league claimed they didn’t reflect the team’s white color.
They were banned by the league and Jordan was fined $5000 every game he wore them. Nike was happy to foot the bill.
3) Sales of Air Jordans
Everyone knows how popular Air Jordan shoes are, but just how profitable have they been?
In 2019, Nike reported that the Jordan line of sneakers produced more than 3.1 billion dollars in sales. They accounted for 8% of Nike’s total sales.
This is a testament to Michael Jordan’s popularity as it’s been nearly 20 years since he played in the NBA.
4) No Nike Swoosh?
The Nike swoosh is one of the most recognizable brand logos in the world. As such, it was a bit of a shock when the Air Jordan II came out.
This was the first Nike shoe in history that did not sport the iconic swoosh. They believed the design spoke for itself.
Now, the modern Jordan logo, a silhouette of MJ soaring through the air, is almost as recognizable.
5) Jordan Brought His Iconic Shoe Out of Retirement
Since their debut in 1984, there have been many different lines on the shoe.
However, for Michael Jordan’s final game at Madison Square Garden, he decided to bring the original Air Jordan out of the closet.
Though it was a very cool homage, the technology must not have held up. The old kicks were not the best basketball shoes to play in. MJ claimed that by half time his feet were bloodied and blistered.
6) Michael Jordan’s Favorite Pair
Because the brand has played a major role in defining his life, it’s only fitting that Jordan has a favorite pair.
The Allstar has said the Air Jordan 11s are his all-time favorite. He claimed the fit, feel, function, and looks are all incredible.
7) Inspiration From Everywhere
Over the years there have been 26 different designs. Some are so unique and bizarre; you may wonder where the inspiration comes from.
Well, Tinker Hatfield, one of the long-time designers, said the designs come from all over. His ideas came from things such as fighter jets, Ferraris, and even a lawnmower.
Did You Know These Facts About Jordans?
These are a few of the facts about Jordans that every sneaker fanatic should know. Keep this guide in mind the next time you are shopping for these famous kicks.
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