Air Jordans have been iconic in the sneaker world for decades. From their first release in 1985 to modern designs, these shoes have left a lasting mark on basketball and street fashion. Below is a ranking of the Best Jordan Shoes, based on their design, historical significance, and popularity.
10. Air Jordan IX
The Best Jordan Shoes list starts with the Air Jordan IX. This shoe stands out because it was released after Michael Jordan’s first retirement. Despite MJ not wearing them during his basketball career, they became a fan favorite for their sleek design and global influence.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Release Year | 1993 |
| Worn by Jordan in NBA? | No |
| Design Inspiration | International basketball influence |
| Special Edition | Baseball cleat version |
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9. Air Jordan VI
The Best Jordan Shoes continue with the Air Jordan VI, worn by MJ when he won his first NBA Championship in 1991. With a unique design, it became a favorite for its fit and innovation.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Release Year | 1991 |
| Championship-Winning Shoe? | Yes |
| Unique Design Element | Rubber tongue and rear pull tab |
| Inspired By | MJ’s German sports car |
8. Air Jordan XIII
Known for its iconic holographic “panther eye” logo, the Air Jordan XIII is one of the Best Jordan Shoes for its agile design and impact on MJ’s final games with the Bulls before his second retirement.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Release Year | 1997 |
| Nickname | “Black Cat” |
| Design Inspiration | Panther movement |
| Famous Moment | Worn in 1998 NBA Playoffs |
7. Air Jordan VII
The Best Jordan Shoes ranking includes the Air Jordan VII, worn by MJ during the 1992 Olympics. Its bold design and futuristic style make it one of the most memorable Jordans.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Release Year | 1992 |
| Olympics Shoe? | Yes |
| Nike Branding on the Shoe? | No |
| Unique Feature | Huarache-style fit |
6. Air Jordan V
The Air Jordan V is one of the Best Jordan Shoes for its WWII fighter plane-inspired design. Featuring a reflective tongue and shark-tooth pattern, it also made an appearance in The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Release Year | 1990 |
| Design Inspiration | WWII fighter planes |
| Famous Wearer Outside NBA | Will Smith in Fresh Prince |
| Special Feature | Clear rubber soles |
5. Air Jordan XII
The Best Jordan Shoes list wouldn’t be complete without the Air Jordan XII, known for its connection to MJ’s famous “Flu Game” in the 1997 NBA Finals. This shoe was also the first to be released under the Jordan Brand, making it significant in sneaker history.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Release Year | 1996 |
| Nickname | “Flu Game” |
| Design Inspiration | Japanese Rising Sun |
| Notable Moment | 1997 NBA Finals |
4. Air Jordan IV
The Air Jordan IV is iconic, featured in Do The Right Thing and the first to be sold globally. With innovative lace locks and visible Air cushioning, it became one of the Best Jordan Shoes of all time.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Release Year | 1989 |
| Famous in Pop Culture? | Yes, Do The Right Thing |
| Unique Feature | Plastic lace locks |
| Notable Moment | MJ’s game-winner vs. Cavs in 1989 Playoffs |
3. Air Jordan XI
As one of the Best Jordan Shoes, the Air Jordan XI is famous for its patent leather and its use in MJ’s 1996 NBA Championship win after coming out of retirement.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Release Year | 1995 |
| Material Innovation | Patent leather |
| Famous Wearers | Boyz II Men, MJ |
| Championship Shoe? | Yes, 1996 NBA title |
2. Air Jordan III
The Air Jordan III introduced the Jumpman logo and elephant print, becoming one of the Best Jordan Shoes ever released. This sneaker helped keep MJ with Nike and remains a classic.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Release Year | 1988 |
| First Jumpman Logo? | Yes |
| Notable Moment | 1988 Dunk Contest |
| Design Feature | Elephant print |
1. Air Jordan I
The original Air Jordan I is the pinnacle of Best Jordan Shoes, revolutionizing sneaker culture when it was released in 1985. This shoe is a symbol of defiance and style, starting the sneaker craze that continues to this day.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Release Year | 1985 |
| Banned by NBA? | Yes |
| Historic Impact | Started sneaker culture |
| Popularity Today | Extremely high |
Conclusion
Air Jordans are undoubtedly the Best Jordan Shoes in sneaker history. From the original Air Jordan I to the modern designs, these sneakers have changed basketball and fashion forever. Which is your favorite? Let us know!
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