The Ultimate Guide to the Legendary Air Jordan Legacy: A Comprehensive List of Every Model

Introduction

For decades, the iconic Air Jordan sneakers have graced the feet of basketball enthusiasts and fashion icons alike, becoming an enduring symbol of athleticism, style, and cultural impact. From the groundbreaking Air Jordan 1 to the cutting-edge Air Jordan 36, each model has left an indelible mark on the sneaker landscape, captivating fans worldwide.

This comprehensive guide will take you on a chronological journey through the impressive lineage of Air Jordan shoes, showcasing the key features, release dates, and cultural significance of each model. Let's dive into the rich history and lasting legacy of one of the most influential sneaker brands of all time.

Air Jordan 1 (1985)

Born of Controversy, Forged into a Legend

• Released April 1, 1985
• Nicknamed "Chicago" for its iconic red and black colorway
• Designed by Peter Moore
• Banned by the NBA for violating uniform regulations
• Inspired the "Banned" campaign, which catapulted the sneaker into stardom

Air Jordan 2 (1986)

A Bold Departure with Italian Flair

• Released June 1986
• Designed by Bruce Kilgore
• First Air Jordan model with the Air cushioning unit in the heel
• Features a luxurious leather upper and a distinctive "Italian" design
• Less popular than the Jordan 1, but gaining a cult following over time

Air Jordan 3 (1988)

The Game-Changer with the Iconic Elephant Print

• Released March 27, 1988
• Designed by Tinker Hatfield
• First Air Jordan model to feature visible Air cushioning
• Introduces the iconic elephant print throughout the shoe
• Widely considered one of the greatest Air Jordan models ever created

Air Jordan 4 (1989)

The High-Flying Flight with the Netted Window

• Released June 1989
• Designed by Tinker Hatfield
• First Air Jordan model with an internal "Flight" support system
• Features a netted window on the side panel for breathability
• Another fan favorite, known for its bold styling and performance

Air Jordan 5 (1990)

The Shark-Inspired Silhouette with Legendary Legacy

• Released February 1990
• Designed by Tinker Hatfield
• Inspired by the World War II P-51 Mustang fighter plane
• Features a unique shark-tooth-like shape and a reflective 3M upper
• One of the most popular Air Jordan models, worn by Michael Jordan during the "Flu Game"

Air Jordan 6 (1991)

The Infrared Classic with the Clear Outsole

• Released March 1991
• Designed by Tinker Hatfield
• First Air Jordan model with a clear outsole, revealing the Air cushioning
• Features a sleek, low-cut design and the iconic Infrared colorway
• Released during Michael Jordan's first NBA Championship

Air Jordan 7 (1992)

The Innovator with the Adjustable Ankle Strap

• Released June 1992
• Designed by Tinker Hatfield
• Introduces a unique adjustable ankle strap for support and customization
• Features a futuristic design with angular lines and a graphic outsole
• A popular model among collectors due to its rarity

Air Jordan 8 (1993)

The Cross-Strapped Experiment with the Bold Stripes

• Released February 1993
• Designed by Tinker Hatfield
• First Air Jordan model with a full-length Air cushioning unit
• Features bold cross-straps and a distinctive graphic pattern
• Less popular than other Air Jordan models, but gaining recognition for its unique design

Air Jordan 9 (1993)

The Boot-Inspired Design with the Japanese Writing

• Released November 1993
• Designed by Tinker Hatfield and Mark Smith
• Inspired by Japanese combat boots and martial arts
• Features a rugged, boot-like design with Japanese characters
• A relatively niche model, but popular among collectors and fans of Japanese culture

Air Jordan 10 (1994)

The Timeless Classic with the Stitched Upper

• Released October 1994
• Designed by Tinker Hatfield and Brand Jordan
• Features a premium stitched leather upper and a sleek, minimalist design
• Widely considered one of the most iconic Air Jordan models of all time
• Worn by Michael Jordan during his record-breaking season and 1995 NBA Championship

Air Jordan 11 (1995)

The Grail with the Patent Leather

• Released November 1995
• Designed by Tinker Hatfield
• Features a patent leather upper and a carbon fiber sole
• Considered by many to be the "Grail" of Air Jordans
• One of the most popular and sought-after models, inspired by the Concord grape colorway

Air Jordan 12 (1996)

The Pinnacle of Luxury with the Quilted Leather

• Released November 1996
• Designed by Tinker Hatfield and Brand Jordan
• Features a quilted leather upper and a metallic gold Jumpman logo
• Known for its elegant and luxurious design
• Released during Michael Jordan's second NBA three-peat

Air Jordan 13 (1997)

The Bold Statement with the Holographic Eye

• Released November 1997
• Designed by Tinker Hatfield
• Features a unique holographic eye on the lateral side
• Known for its bold and aggressive design
• Released during Michael Jordan's second retirement

Air Jordan 14 (1998)

The Ferrari-Inspired Racer with the Jumpman

• Released February 1998
• Designed by Tinker Hatfield
• Inspired by the Ferrari F355 racer
• Features a sleek, low-cut design with a large Jumpman logo
• A controversial model due to its departure from the traditional Air Jordan look

Air Jordan 15 (1999)

The Final Dance with the Knit Upper

• Released February 1999
• Designed by Tinker Hatfield
• Features a knit upper and a lightweight design
• Released during Michael Jordan's last NBA season
• A comfortable and stylish model, marking the end of an era

Air Jordan 16 (2001)

The Return to Form with the Water-Resistant Upper

• Released December 2001
• Designed by Wilson Smith III
• First Air Jordan model released after Michael Jordan's retirement
• Features a durable water-resistant upper and a sleek design
• A solid comeback model, showcasing the brand's continued innovation

Air Jordan 17 (2002)

The Futuristic Design with the Hidden Lace System

• Released January 2002
• Designed by Wilson Smith III
• Features a futuristic design and a hidden lace system
• Known for its lightweight and supportive construction
• A popular model among collectors for its unique design

Air Jordan 18 (2003)

The Bold Experiment with the Full-Length Zoom Unit

• Released March 2003
• Designed by Mark Smith
• Features a full-length Zoom Air cushioning unit
• Known for its bold and unconventional design
• A less popular model, but respected for its innovative cushioning technology

Air Jordan 19 (2004)

The Sleek and Sophisticated Design with the Trench Coat

• Released July 2004
• Designed by Jason Mayden
• Features a sleek and sophisticated design, inspired by a trench coat
• Known for its leather upper and high-top construction
• A popular model among fans of streetwear and casual wear

Air Jordan 20 (2005)

The Return to the Court with the 3/4 Cut

• Released June 2005
• Designed by Lee Smith and Brett McDowell
• Features a 3/4 cut and a lightweight, breathable design
• Known for its performance-oriented construction
• A solid model for basketball enthusiasts, offering support and comfort

Air Jordan 21 (2006)

The Lightweight and Dynamic Design with the Fuse Upper

• Released June 2006
• Designed by Henry Shepherdson and Marc Dolce
• Features a lightweight and dynamic design, inspired by flight
• Known for its use of fuse materials and responsive cushioning
• A popular model for both on and off the court

Air Jordan 22 (2007)

The Retro Experiment with the Air Jordan 3 Inspiration

• Released June 2007
• Designed by Mark Smith
• Features a retro design, inspired by the iconic Air Jordan 3
• Known for its classic look and modernized materials
• A popular model among fans of the original Air Jordan 3

Air Jordan 23 (2008)

The Sustainable Design with the Hemp Upper

• Released June 2008
• Designed by Mark Smith and Jason Mayden
• Features a sustainable design, with an upper made from hemp
• Known for its eco-friendly construction and comfortable fit
• A unique model that showcases the brand's commitment to sustainability

Air Jordan 2009 (2009)

The Lightweight and Breathable Design with the Engineered Mesh

• Released June 2009
• Designed by Mark Smith and Jason Mayden
• Features a

The Ultimate Guide to the Legendary Air Jordan Legacy: A Comprehensive List of Every Model

Introduction

For decades, the iconic Air Jordan sneakers have graced the feet of basketball enthusiasts and fashion icons alike, becoming an enduring symbol of athleticism, style, and cultural impact. From the groundbreaking Air Jordan 1 to the cutting-edge Air Jordan 36, each model has left an indelible mark on the sneaker landscape, captivating fans worldwide.

This comprehensive guide will take you on a chronological journey through the impressive lineage of Air Jordan shoes, showcasing the key features, release dates, and cultural significance of each model. Let's dive into the rich history and lasting legacy of one of the most influential sneaker brands of all time.

Air Jordan 1 (1985)

Born of Controversy, Forged into a Legend

• Released April 1, 1985
• Nicknamed "Chicago" for its iconic red and black colorway
• Designed by Peter Moore
• Banned by the NBA for violating uniform regulations
• Inspired the "Banned" campaign, which catapulted the sneaker into stardom

Air Jordan 2 (1986)

A Bold Departure with Italian Flair

• Released June 1986
• Designed by Bruce Kilgore
• First Air Jordan model with the Air cushioning unit in the heel
• Features a luxurious leather upper and a distinctive "Italian" design
• Less popular than the Jordan 1, but gaining a cult following over time

Air Jordan 3 (1988)

The Game-Changer with the Iconic Elephant Print

• Released March 27, 1988
• Designed by Tinker Hatfield
• First Air Jordan model to feature visible Air cushioning
• Introduces the iconic elephant print throughout the shoe
• Widely considered one of the greatest Air Jordan models ever created

Air Jordan 4 (1989)

The High-Flying Flight with the Netted Window

• Released June 1989
• Designed by Tinker Hatfield
• First Air Jordan model with an internal "Flight" support system
• Features a netted window on the side panel for breathability
• Another fan favorite, known for its bold styling and performance

Air Jordan 5 (1990)

The Shark-Inspired Silhouette with Legendary Legacy

• Released February 1990
• Designed by Tinker Hatfield
• Inspired by the World War II P-51 Mustang fighter plane
• Features a unique shark-tooth-like shape and a reflective 3M upper
• One of the most popular Air Jordan models, worn by Michael Jordan during the "Flu Game"

Air Jordan 6 (1991)

The Infrared Classic with the Clear Outsole

• Released March 1991
• Designed by Tinker Hatfield
• First Air Jordan model with a clear outsole, revealing the Air cushioning
• Features a sleek, low-cut design and the iconic Infrared colorway
• Released during Michael Jordan's first NBA Championship

Air Jordan 7 (1992)

The Innovator with the Adjustable Ankle Strap

• Released June 1992
• Designed by Tinker Hatfield
• Introduces a unique adjustable ankle strap for support and customization
• Features a futuristic design with angular lines and a graphic outsole
• A popular model among collectors due to its rarity

Air Jordan 8 (1993)

The Cross-Strapped Experiment with the Bold Stripes

• Released February 1993
• Designed by Tinker Hatfield
• First Air Jordan model with a full-length Air cushioning unit
• Features bold cross-straps and a distinctive graphic pattern
• Less popular than other Air Jordan models, but gaining recognition for its unique design

Air Jordan 9 (1993)

The Boot-Inspired Design with the Japanese Writing

• Released November 1993
• Designed by Tinker Hatfield and Mark Smith
• Inspired by Japanese combat boots and martial arts
• Features a rugged, boot-like design with Japanese characters
• A relatively niche model, but popular among collectors and fans of Japanese culture

Air Jordan 10 (1994)

The Timeless Classic with the Stitched Upper

• Released October 1994
• Designed by Tinker Hatfield and Brand Jordan
• Features a premium stitched leather upper and a sleek, minimalist design
• Widely considered one of the most iconic Air Jordan models of all time
• Worn by Michael Jordan during his record-breaking season and 1995 NBA Championship

Air Jordan 11 (1995)

The Grail with the Patent Leather

• Released November 1995
• Designed by Tinker Hatfield
• Features a patent leather upper and a carbon fiber sole
• Considered by many to be the "Grail" of Air Jordans
• One of the most popular and sought-after models, inspired by the Concord grape colorway

Air Jordan 12 (1996)

The Pinnacle of Luxury with the Quilted Leather

• Released November 1996
• Designed by Tinker Hatfield and Brand Jordan
• Features a quilted leather upper and a metallic gold Jumpman logo
• Known for its elegant and luxurious design
• Released during Michael Jordan's second NBA three-peat

Air Jordan 13 (1997)

The Bold Statement with the Holographic Eye

• Released November 1997
• Designed by Tinker Hatfield
• Features a unique holographic eye on the lateral side
• Known for its bold and aggressive design
• Released during Michael Jordan's second retirement

Air Jordan 14 (1998)

The Ferrari-Inspired Racer with the Jumpman

• Released February 1998
• Designed by Tinker Hatfield
• Inspired by the Ferrari F355 racer
• Features a sleek, low-cut design with a large Jumpman logo
• A controversial model due to its departure from the traditional Air Jordan look

Air Jordan 15 (1999)

The Final Dance with the Knit Upper

• Released February 1999
• Designed by Tinker Hatfield
• Features a knit upper and a lightweight design
• Released during Michael Jordan's last NBA season
• A comfortable and stylish model, marking the end of an era

Air Jordan 16 (2001)

The Return to Form with the Water-Resistant Upper

• Released December 2001
• Designed by Wilson Smith III
• First Air Jordan model released after Michael Jordan's retirement
• Features a durable water-resistant upper and a sleek design
• A solid comeback model, showcasing the brand's continued innovation

Air Jordan 17 (2002)

The Futuristic Design with the Hidden Lace System

• Released January 2002
• Designed by Wilson Smith III
• Features a futuristic design and a hidden lace system
• Known for its lightweight and supportive construction
• A popular model among collectors for its unique design

Air Jordan 18 (2003)

The Bold Experiment with the Full-Length Zoom Unit

• Released March 2003
• Designed by Mark Smith
• Features a full-length Zoom Air cushioning unit
• Known for its bold and unconventional design
• A less popular model, but respected for its innovative cushioning technology

Air Jordan 19 (2004)

The Sleek and Sophisticated Design with the Trench Coat

• Released July 2004
• Designed by Jason Mayden
• Features a sleek and sophisticated design, inspired by a trench coat
• Known for its leather upper and high-top construction
• A popular model among fans of streetwear and casual wear

Air Jordan 20 (2005)

The Return to the Court with the 3/4 Cut

• Released June 2005
• Designed by Lee Smith and Brett McDowell
• Features a 3/4 cut and a lightweight, breathable design
• Known for its performance-oriented construction
• A solid model for basketball enthusiasts, offering support and comfort

Air Jordan 21 (2006)

The Lightweight and Dynamic Design with the Fuse Upper

• Released June 2006
• Designed by Henry Shepherdson and Marc Dolce
• Features a lightweight and dynamic design, inspired by flight
• Known for its use of fuse materials and responsive cushioning
• A popular model for both on and off the court

Air Jordan 22 (2007)

The Retro Experiment with the Air Jordan 3 Inspiration

• Released June 2007
• Designed by Mark Smith
• Features a retro design, inspired by the iconic Air Jordan 3
• Known for its classic look and modernized materials
• A popular model among fans of the original Air Jordan 3

Air Jordan 23 (2008)

The Sustainable Design with the Hemp Upper

• Released June 2008
• Designed by Mark Smith and Jason Mayden
• Features a sustainable design, with an upper made from hemp
• Known for its eco-friendly construction and comfortable fit
• A unique model that showcases the brand's commitment to sustainability

Air Jordan 2009 (2009)

The Lightweight and Breathable Design with the Engineered Mesh

• Released June 2009
• Designed by Mark Smith and Jason Mayden
• Features a