NIKE is a popular sneaker brand, and the Jordan series in particular is extremely popular.
Nowadays, not only sneakers but also apparel are popular, and the Jordan brand has become an indispensable part of the street fashion scene.
Since their release, Air Jordan sneakers have sold a whopping 38 series.
In this article, we will explain the background of the birth of the Air Jordan sneaker and provide a comprehensive explanation of all 38 series.
We will also touch on popular models and colors for each series, so this article is sure to be helpful when choosing your next Jordan sneaker.
Background of the birth of the Air Jordan series
The Air Jordan model was created for the legendary NBA player, Michael Jordan.
Even if you are not familiar with basketball, you probably have a strong image of Jordan = basketball.
Recently, a movie called "AIR" was released, which was based on the story behind the birth of Air Jordan.
There have been many stories behind the Air Jordan series since its inception and when Jordan actually wore them.
Was Jordan reluctant to sign with NIKE at that time?
In 1984, when the Jordan 1 was born, the basketball shoe market was dominated by two manufacturers: Adidas and Converse.
Meanwhile, in an attempt to turn around its basketball division, Nike set its sights on the talents of Michael Jordan, who was an unknown player at the time, and offered Jordan the entire $250,000 budget that was originally intended to be used to make sponsorship contracts with several players.
However, since Jordan was a fan of Adidas at the time, he bluntly stated that he had no sponsorship contract with NIKE.
Still, Nike was determined to win the contract, so they came up with a secret plan: to create shoes specifically for Michael Jordan .
This is how the AIR JORDAN 1 was born, a shoe that is still considered the king of the sneaker world today.
Air Jordan prototype
Nike successfully secured a contract with Michael Jordan, but the deal was signed just a few months before the start of the 1984-85 NBA season.
Although development of a special model began immediately after the contract was signed, it was obviously not possible to complete it within a few months, so the alternative model was the "AIR SHIP," which is also known as the prototype for the later Jordan 1.
By the way, as the name "AIR" suggests, the Airship is the successor model to the Air Force.
The initial color of the AJ1 was not Chicago but actually Bred (red x black).
The Jordan 1 has a strong image of the red and white Chicago colors, so many people probably think of the original color scheme as Chicago.
In fact, the initial color of the AJ1 was a red and black color pattern called "Bred." (See the foreground of the photo above.)
The motif is the logo of Jordan's team, the Chicago Bulls, which features a red bull on a black background.
By the way, at that time in the NBA, there was a rule that more than half of the shoes had to be white, and there is a famous story about how Nike had to continue paying a fine of $5,000 (about 400,000 yen) every time Jordan played in a game wearing the Bred AJ1.
This episode sparked the popularity of the Bred AJ1 at the time, and it remains one of the most popular color patterns today.
Introducing the 38 types of Air Jordans
AIR JORDAN 1
- Released: 1985
The AJ1 is the first model in the AIR JORDAN series and is a masterpiece that represents the series.
This is a unique model that has a simple appearance but has an overwhelming appeal that draws people in.
They collaborate with various brands and artists, and including originals, they have released countless models.
AIR JORDAN 2
- Released: 1986
The Jordan 2 has a completely different look from the 1.
The iconic Nike swoosh is gone and there is only a wing logo on the tongue, giving it a very simple look, almost like a minimalist shoe with an elegant feel.
The original model was the only one in the Jordan series to be made in Italy and made from premium leather.
AIR JORDAN 3
- Released: 1988
This Jordan 3 was the first shoe to feature the now-familiar "Jumpman logo."
This model also incorporates new elements, including visible air in the outsole for the first time.
AIR JORDAN 4
- Released: 1989
Sales of models 2 and 3 were poor, so the design was changed from the previous all-leather design to one that combines plastic parts in some areas, such as mesh on the sides.
The model's innovative look struck a chord with users, and it became a huge hit.
By the way, the "AIR JORDAN" tag on the back of the AJ4's tongue is facing backwards because at the time of its release, there was a trend of folding the tongue inside out, and it seems that it was also intended to be worn in fashion scenes.
AIR JORDAN 5
- Released: 1990
The Jordan 5 is neither high cut nor low cut, called the Jordan Cut, but has been modified to a 3/4 cut at ankle height.
The jagged design of the midsole is based on shark teeth, making this a popular model with a strong visual impact.
It also comes with a clear sole, and the playful gimmick of being able to see the Jumpman logo through the clear sole is also one of the charms of the 5.
AIR JORDAN 6
- Released: 1991
The Jordan 6 was born from a request to a designer to create a shoe that felt like being barefoot.
This is also the model used by Slam Dunk's protagonist, Sakuragi Hanamichi.
It features a two-hole tongue and a plastic heel tab.
AIR JORDAN 7
- Released: 1992
This model marked a turning point for the Air Jordan series.
Starting with the Jordan 7, the shoes will be sold as "JORDAN" separately from NIKE's basketball series.
It is equipped with the Huarache System, which is a structure that wraps around the foot.
AIR JORDAN 8
- Released: 1993
The Jordan 8 was equipped with cross straps to secure the ankle area and was praised for its fit similar to that of the traditional Series 1.
Furthermore, this model marked a turning point in some ways as it was the model in which Michael Jordan announced his first retirement from the NBA.
AIR JORDAN 9
- Released: 1993
The Jordan 9 was released during Michael Jordan's break from basketball.
It has a completely different look from the previous model, the 8, which was full of gimmicks, and now has a boot-like design.
AIR JORDAN 10
- Released: 1994
This is the model worn by Michael Jordan when he made his surprise return to the NBA after a break from basketball.
The shoelace straps and outsole pattern give it a striped look.
The stripes on the outsole feature inscriptions paying tribute to Jordan.
AIR JORDAN 11
- Released: 1995
The Jordan 11 was designed in response to Jordan's request for a shoe that looked like a formal shoe.
This is one of the most popular models in the Jordan series, and as per the concept, it goes well with formal attire such as suits as well as on the street.
The number "45" designed on the heel is Jordan's uniform number when he returned to the NBA.
AIR JORDAN 12
- Released Year: 1996
This model is equipped with a cushion called ZOOM AIR.
While retaining the elegant atmosphere of the previous model, the 11, this model features radial stitching based on the Japanese flag.
AIR JORDAN 13
- Released Year: 1997
This model was designed based on Jordan's black panther-like playing style.
The design is quite faithful to the model image, with glow-in-the-dark parts on the heel and a paw-like outsole.
AIR JORDAN 14
- Released Year: 1998
The Jordan 14 was designed based on Jordan's beloved car, the Ferrari.
The shape surrounding the Jumpman logo closely resembles the Ferrari emblem.
With this 14th season as his final game, Jordan retired from the NBA for the second time.
AIR JORDAN 15
- Released Year: 1999
A model designed with NASA jet planes as its motif.
It features a pointed opening and braided sides.
AIR JORDAN 16
- Released in: 2001
An innovative model equipped with a removable shoelace cover.
This was also the model that Jordan wore when he returned to the NBA for the third time.
AIR JORDAN 17
- Released Year: 2002
The Jordan 17 was designed to represent Jordan's skills as jazz.
It was equipped with various state-of-the-art technologies at the time, including the Tuned Air System, and was the most expensive model in the Jordan series.
AIR JORDAN 18
- Released Year: 2003
This is the model Jordan wore when he retired.
The design was inspired by Jordan's favorite car at the time, a Lamborghini.
This model features a suede upper and parts that can cover the shoelaces.
AIR JORDAN 19
- Released Year: 2004
A model designed with the image of an African venomous snake.
The traditional design of hiding the shoelaces has been retained.
AIR JORDAN 20
- Released Year: 2005
Jordan 20 marks the 20th anniversary of the Jordan series.
Each part incorporates an illustrated design of Jordan's achievements, showing attention to detail.
This is the first non-air model in the Jordan series.
AIR JORDAN 21
- Released Year: 2006
This model was designed based on Jordan's favorite car at the time, the Bentley.
It has a gimmick where a message appears when you shine a black light on it, giving it both a luxurious look and a playful feel.
AIR JORDAN 22
- Released Year: 2007
A model designed with stealth fighter jets in mind.
Two types of air are included, so you can adjust the cushioning to suit your preference.
AIR JORDAN 23
- Released Year: 2008
The Jordan 23 is the 23rd model, matching Jordan's jersey number, 23, during his active career.
The outsole features a pattern designed based on Jordan's fingerprints, making this a model that is closely reminiscent of Michael Jordan.
AIR JORDAN 2009
- Released Year: 2009
Following on from the previous model, numbering will be changed to reflect the year of release for only four models.
The entire upper is made of leather with some parts made of satin, giving it an elegant look.
This is the 24th installment in the Jordan series.
AIR JORDAN 2010
(Source: www.jordan.com )
- Release year: 2010
The Jordan 2010 features a design that incorporates distinctive large, round cut-out TPU parts.
If you look closely, you will see that the pattern on the midsole is made up of letters. The design features Jordan's famous quote , "I've failed over and over again in my life. And that is why succeed."
This is the 25th installment in the Jordan series.
AIR JORDAN 2011
- Released Year: 2011
It is the first shoe in the series to feature an "interchangeable midsole," allowing its functionality to be changed according to the environment and the player's wishes.
This is the 26th installment in the Jordan series.
AIR JORDAN 2012
- Released Year: 2012
Continuing the interchangeable midsole feature from its predecessor, the 2011 Jordan 2012 adds an additional three options to choose from.
In addition, the shoes can be customized to suit the player's preferences with two types of interchangeable inner sleeves and three types of interchangeable booties.
This is the 27th installment in the Jordan series.
AIR JORDAN 28
- Released Year: 2013
Uses parts that can cover the entire shoe.
Until now, the Jordan series had used leather to combine fashionability, but with the Jordan 28, it suddenly became a shoe that was specialized in functionality as an athletic shoe.
AIR JORDAN 29
- Release year: 2014
The Jordan 29 boasts the lightness of the traditional Jordan Series 1.
A large Jumpman logo on the heel is a distinctive feature.
AIR JORDAN 30
- Release year: 2016
The Jordan 30 was released to commemorate the 30th anniversary of the Air Jordan series.
It is designed with the image of space in mind.
The Greek numerals XXX (30) are incorporated into the heel, representing the number 30 in the model while also representing a basketball net, giving this model a special milestone feel.
AIR JORDAN 31
- Release year: 2016
This model is like an update of the 1985 Air Jordan 1, using Nike's latest technology, Flyweave.
The swoosh, which was only present on the JORDAN 1 series, makes a comeback on this 31.
AIR JORDAN 32
- Release year: 2017
A model that updates the JORDAN 2 with the latest technology.
The leather upper has been changed to Flyknit, making this model optimized for basketball shoes with features such as breathability and lightweight design.
AIR JORDAN 33
- Release year: 2018
FirstFit technology eliminates shoelaces, allowing you to put on, take off, and tighten the shoes instantly.
Elements of the JORDAN 3 are incorporated in some parts, such as the large tongue.
AIR JORDAN 34
- Release year: 2019
It incorporates elements of the JORDAN 4, such as the word "flight" on the tongue, and incorporates a variety of technologies to support higher jumps.
This is the model that Rui Hachimura wore in his rookie year.
AIR JORDAN 35
- Release year: 2020
This model inherits the distinctive tongue shape of the JORDAN 5 and is equipped with Zoom Air on the front and back.
It was developed with an emphasis on speed, providing high cushioning and rebound.
AIR JORDAN 36
- Release year: 2021
This model inherits the shoelace cover from the JORDAN 6 and features an upper woven with a new material called Reno Wave.
It is 30g lighter than the previous model 35, and other improvements have been made to the cushioning.
AIR JORDAN 37
- Release year: 2022
This model inherits the design of the JORDAN 7 and, like its predecessor, is packed with Reno Wave woven uppers and technology specialized for jump support.
AIR JORDAN 38
- Release year: 2023
The cross strap of the JORDAN 8 has evolved into the "X Plate" to update the JORDAN 38's foot support.
The embroidery features messages paying tribute to Michael Jordan's achievements, and the model is made from more than 20% recycled materials, making it a sustainable model.
Popular Air Jordan models
Nearly 40 years have passed since the release of the original AJ1 model, and there are now 38 different models available, but in the fashion scene, the models from the 80s and 90s are still more popular.
Among them, the most popular models are:
- AIR JORDAN 1
- AIR JORDAN 4
- AIR JORDAN 5
- AIR JORDAN 6
- AIR JORDAN 11
What was popular when it was released remains popular today.
Furthermore, the above model has more collaborations with various parties than other models, which shows that it is a popular model worldwide.
Air Jordan's popular color patterns
The Jordan series has many popular models, but among those models, there are some color patterns that are even more popular.
Even with the same model, resale value can often vary greatly just based on color, so color patterns have great significance for the Jordan series.
Chicago
The classic JORDAN 1 color is the Chicago color.
As the name suggests, the design is inspired by the Chicago Bulls' image colors and features a combination of red, white and black.
When a similar color scheme was released as an inline model of the JORDAN 1, some people even custom painted it to make it the Chicago color scheme, making it a classic color pattern in the JORDAN series.
Bread
This color pattern is also inspired by the Chicago Bulls team colors.
Since it was the color of the early model JORDAN 1, it has gained tremendous support in sneaker culture.
UNC
These are the team colors of the University of North Carolina, the school Michael Jordan played college basketball for.
It features a distinctive combination of pale blue and white, and is popular not only among sneaker culture but also among basketball fans.
Black Toe(AJ1)
This refers to the color pattern of the Air Jordan 1 "Black Toe" model released in 1985.
It has come to be known among fans as "black toe = Tsuma Kuro", and is a color pattern that boasts immense popularity, just like the popular AJ1 Chicago and Bred.
AJ's popular models by series
Finally, we would like to introduce some models from each popular series that are particularly popular in terms of color, collaborations, etc.
A popular model in AJ1
AIR JORDAN1 High OG “CHICAGO”
Chicago Bulls-inspired coloring.
It is supported by its historical value as a basketball shoe and its overwhelming popularity on the streets.
AIR JORDAN1 High OG “BRED”
The color pattern is based on the Chicago Bulls' team colors, and its legend as the "banned shoe" has fascinated fans.
OFF WHITE × AIR JORDAN1 High OG
The AIR JORDAN 1, created in collaboration with OFF-WHITE led by Virgil Abloh, is a shoe that adds a fresh design approach to the classic AJ1.
It features innovative elements such as unfinished details, handwritten fonts and zipper tags.
TRAVIS SCOTT × AIR JORDAN1
The Air Jordan 1, created in collaboration with rapper Travis Scott, features a unique reverse swoosh.
In addition to its natural coloring, it also has functionality such as a hidden pocket, making it a model that symbolizes the fusion of hip hop culture and sneaker fashion.
They have also collaborated with fragment, and their model nicknamed "Tiger Pufferfish" is quite popular.
UNION × AIR JORDAN 1
A collaboration model with UNION, a streetwear select shop.
The designs feature vintage processing, hand-sewn stitching and a fusion of different materials, creating a unique retro feel and a modern approach.
AIR JORDAN1 High OG “Sail/Dark Mocha/Black”
It features a calm "dark mocha" color scheme, inspired by the Travis Scott collaboration model.
The design is easy to match with street, casual, and fashion styles, making it popular with a wide range of people, and it is a pair of shoes with a simple yet sophisticated beauty.
AIR JORDAN1 High OG “Game Royal”
Royal refers to what Nike calls "blue."
While it evokes the classic "Chicago" and "Bread" color schemes, the unique blue adds a modern touch.
A popular model in AJ4
AIR JORDAN4 "BRED"
"BRED" (black + red) is one of the most iconic colorways of the AIR JORDAN 4 that first appeared in 1989.
The heel features a "NIKE AIR" logo instead of the Jumpman logo.
It is also known as the shoe worn by Michael Jordan when he scored a dramatic buzzer-beater, and it has earned an unshakable place in sneaker history.
OFF WHITE × AIR JORDAN 4
It features a unified "Sail" colorway on the upper, giving it a classic design.
The OFF-WHITE-esque "AIR" lettering is printed on the midsole, and the word "SHOELACES" is engraved on the shoelaces.
TRAVIS SCOTT × AIR JORDAN4
There will also be a collaboration with rapper Travis Scott, with the entire upper made of bright light blue suede.
The heel tab, a characteristic of the JORDAN 4, features the Jumpman logo, which is JORDAN's logo, and the letters "cactus jack," which is Travis' logo, on each shoe.
AIR JORDAN4 "University Blue"
The entire upper is made of bright light blue "University Blue" suede with some grey cement pattern incorporated.
This model is slightly different from other AJ4s due to its resemblance to the Travis collaboration and the number 23, Jordan's jersey number, tag attached to the tongue.
A popular model from AJ5
OFF WHITE × AIR JORDAN 5
It comes in two colors: "Sail" like the 4, and the charcoal-colored "Muslin."
Although there is no “AIR” print on the midsole, the upper features the “round hole” design seen on OFF-WHITE items when this model was released.
The opening is also The sponge is exposed with a cut-out design.
SUPREME × AIR JORDAN 5
- White
- Black
- Desert Camo
This JORDAN 5 is a collaboration with the street brand "SUPREME" and consists of the three color patterns shown above.
The word Sup can be seen on the mesh part on the side, and this model retains the design of the JORDAN 5 while adding elements of SUPREME.
AIR JORDAN 5 "TOP 3"
- Fire Red
- Metallic
- Grape
This model features a luxurious color scheme that combines the three popular OG colors of the JORDAN 5.
Furthermore, the back of the shoe tongue is embroidered with three popular colors, showing attention to detail.
A popular model from AJ6
TRAVIS SCOTT × AIR JORDAN 6
The collaboration with rapper Travis Scott comes in two colors: "Olive" and "Khaki."
Not only does it have "cactus jack" embroidered on the heel, but it also has a small pocket next to the opening, giving the model a playful yet sophisticated look.
AIR JORDAN 6 "BLACK INFRARED"
One of the iconic colors of the JORDAN 6.
This model features a simple yet striking color scheme of black nubuck material and vibrant red infrared.
AIR JORDAN 6 "Carmine"
This model features vibrant red and white colors, and after first appearing in 1991, it is being reissued in its OG specifications, making it a delightful return for fans.
This is a legendary model worn by Michael Jordan during the 1990-1991 season when he won his first NBA championship.
AIR JORDAN 6 "UNC"
This model is in the team colors of the University of North Carolina (UNC), the school Michael Jordan played college basketball for.
The design features a combination of turquoise blue and white, and a tag with the Jumpman logo is sewn onto the heel.
A popular model from AJ11
AIR JORDAN 11 "Bred"
The AJ11 "Bred" was the shoe that adorned Michael Jordan's feet as he kicked off his second triple-consecutive championship.
The black and red coloring makes a very strong impact, and the glossy patent leather upper and clear sole are popular.AIR JORDAN 11 "Concord"
This classic model was released in 1995 and features a simple white and black upper with a clear sole and partial purple parts.
With its simple yet elegant appearance, this model is worn in both street and formal settings.
summary
The Jordan series has been around forty years since its release, and has been released almost annually up until the time of Jordan's retirement.
It's interesting to see the differences in each model's concept, function, and appearance when you line them up in order.
In addition, we are also introducing popular models from each series, but this is only a small part of them.
It might be interesting to dig deeper into AIR JORDAN yourself based on the knowledge you gained from this article.
