The Ones that started it all
MJ’s mythology all began with the Jordan Retro 1s. Originally released in 1985, the Jordan Retro 1 first came out in a black and red colorway. According to Nike’s marketing campaign at the time, the Jordan Retro 1 black and red colorway was banned by the league for violating their dress code.
Though recent speculation has added doubt to certain elements of the story, Michael’s reputation had already been cemented: he was a rebel on the court who was going to play the game his way. And that’s just what he did. In his first season, MJ averaged 28.2 ppg and was voted Rookie of the Year. The legend had begun.
Air Jordan takes flight
As MJ’s career picked up heat, so did the Jordan sneaker line. In 1988, Michael won his first league MVP award and the Jordan Retro 3 was released. Created by the influential Nike designer Tinker Hatfield, the Air Jordan 3 featured a visible Air cushioning unit and elephant print leather. The sleek, mid-cut model flew off the shelves.
As MJ continued to impress the world with MVP awards, scoring titles, and league championships, Air Jordan fever kept heating up. Shoes like the Jordan Retro 7 made waves throughout the culture, a wearable symbol of the Jumpman legacy.
Jordan Retro 11 marks MJ’s return
After playing minor league baseball during a brief retirement, Michael decided he still had more to give the game of basketball. But when he returned to Chicago in 1995, there was talk that he’d lost his edge. Michael being Michael, he came back with a vengeance and led Chicago to the 1996 championship where he brought home another trophy with the help of his Jordan Retro 11s.
The Jordan Retro 11 is the ultimate sign of Jordan’s prestige and his dominance on the court. A patent leather mud guard not only provided MJ with lateral support, but it also brought a classy look to the hardwood. The message was simple: every time Michael stepped onto the court was an occasion.
The future of Jordan
Six rings, six Finals MVP awards, and five regular season MVP awards later, and MJ’s claim to the GOAT was secured. Michael had entranced the world with his athleticism, and the Jordan Brand had given fans a tangible piece of the history.
With women’s Jordan shoes and kids’ Jordan shoes, everyone gets a chance to wear the iconic sneakers. For a complete Jumpman look, check out our selection of Jordan apparel. Michael may be done with basketball, but his legend lives on with each sneaker drop. Get your pair of Jordans and join the legacy.
Related to Jordan Retro Shoes
Jordan Retro 6 Shoes, Jordan Retro 10 Shoes, Jordan Retro 13 Shoes, Jordan Retro 1 Shoes, Jordan Retro 11 Shoes
