Space Jams, Carmines, Olympics, Grapes, Concord, DMP

499 Words

Nike started the Jordan brand in around 1984, endorsed by Michael Jordan himself. Nobody knew it would lead to what it is today. Michael would be sure to wear them during basketball games but back then, most of the shoes worn was white. The first Jordan was the Black/Red Jordan 1, and because of the dark colors, the NBA banned the shoe from being used. Michael still wore them but was faced with a $5000 fine a game. This was just the beginning as Air Jordans became more than just a sport related shoe, it became engraved in many people’s lives.

Jordans come in many variations; we have Originals (OG), Retros, Retro +, Player Exclusive’s (PE), and samples. Jordan first started in 1985 with the release of the Jordan 1’s. With each year that past, they released a new number, from 1-23. You might wonder what is the difference from OG, retro and retro +. The Jordan 11 was originally released in 1996 (OG). They remade the shoe in multiple colors again in 2000-2001 (Retro). They re-released the Jordan 11 in 2006-current (Retro +). Jordan 11’s became the most popular fastest selling Jordan shoe in 2001. If you want a pair from that era, be prepared to pay $400+.

Jordans have been so popular because of their style, technology on the court and also from the man that started it all, Michael Jordan. People began to buy Jordans for more than just ball playing. It became a hobby, a very expensive hobby. We have many collectors that have thousands and thousands of dollars worth of shoes in their closets. These shoes have became so popular and demanded, people have camped outside stores for up to a week just so they can be guaranteed a pair. Many celebrities and athletes are endorsed by the Jordan brand, making it easier to market through the young crowd. A typical “sneaker head” will know the majority of the colorways released and their market value.

The Jordan name has been such a huge trend, I can’t see it coming to an end. Most of the shoe’s value can only go up as time goes on. You can see people of all styles wearing Jay’s. Each one of them will have their own reason, on why they chose to do so. It’s a trend you can’t escape from anymore, dedicated to “His Airness”, Michael Jordan.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jordan_shoes#Air_Jordan_I