For sneaker enthusiasts and fashion-forward individuals alike, the Retro Jordan Shoe is an iconic and timeless piece of footwear that never goes out of style. The Retro Jordan Shoe was first introduced in the 1980s and quickly gained popularity among basketball players and fans alike for its innovative design and exceptional performance. Today, the Retro Jordan Shoe has become a cultural phenomenon, a symbol of urban style and a must-have for any sneaker collection.
But with so many different variations and colorways to choose from, it can be overwhelming to determine which Retro Jordan Shoe is the best. Some may argue that the classic Air Jordan 1 is the ultimate choice, while others may prefer the sleek and stylish Air Jordan 11. From the Air Jordan 3 to the Air Jordan 13, each Retro Jordan Shoe has its unique features and characteristics that make it stand out from the rest. So, what is the best Retro Jordan Shoe? Let’s take a closer look and find out.
What is the Best Retro Jordan Shoe?
If you’re a sneakerhead, you know that nothing beats a classic pair of Jordans. But with so many retro styles to choose from, it can be tough to decide which ones are the best. In this article, we’ll break down the top retro Jordan shoes and discuss what makes them so special.
1. Air Jordan 1
The Air Jordan 1 was first released in 1985 and is widely considered to be the shoe that started it all. Designed by Peter Moore, the AJ1 was initially banned by the NBA for its bold color scheme and non-regulation design. Despite this setback, the shoe became a cultural phenomenon and has since been re-released in countless colorways and collaborations.
The AJ1’s timeless design features a high-top silhouette, Nike Air branding on the tongue, and the iconic Wings logo on the ankle. It’s a versatile shoe that can be dressed up or down, making it a must-have for any sneaker collection.
Benefits:
- Timeless design
- Versatile
- Iconic branding
VS:
| Air Jordan 1 | Air Jordan 4 |
|---|---|
| Timeless design | Classic silhouette |
| Versatile | Durable construction |
| Iconic branding | Comfortable fit |
2. Air Jordan 3
The Air Jordan 3 was first released in 1988 and marked the beginning of Michael Jordan’s long-standing partnership with designer Tinker Hatfield. The AJ3 introduced several new features, including the iconic elephant print on the toe and heel, the Jumpman logo on the tongue, and the visible Air unit in the heel.
The AJ3’s design was inspired by luxury cars and features a sleek, aerodynamic silhouette. It’s a shoe that’s both stylish and comfortable, making it a favorite among sneakerheads and athletes alike.
Benefits:
- Iconic design elements
- Comfortable fit
- Durable construction
VS:
| Air Jordan 3 | Air Jordan 11 |
|---|---|
| Iconic design elements | Patent leather construction |
| Comfortable fit | Responsive cushioning |
| Durable construction | Classic silhouette |
3. Air Jordan 4
The Air Jordan 4 was first released in 1989 and was designed by Tinker Hatfield. The AJ4 introduced several new features, including the plastic wing eyelets, the mesh panels on the upper, and the visible Air unit in the heel.
The AJ4’s design was inspired by military aircraft and features a rugged, durable construction. It’s a shoe that’s both stylish and functional, making it a popular choice among sneakerheads and athletes alike.
Benefits:
- Rugged, durable construction
- Comfortable fit
- Classic silhouette
VS:
| Air Jordan 4 | Air Jordan 6 |
|---|---|
| Rugged, durable construction | Unique design elements |
| Comfortable fit | Responsive cushioning |
| Classic silhouette | Signature colorways |
4. Air Jordan 6
The Air Jordan 6 was first released in 1991 and was designed by Tinker Hatfield. The AJ6 introduced several new features, including the molded heel tab, the visible Air unit in the sole, and the unique lace locks.
The AJ6’s design was inspired by MJ’s love of motorsports and features a bold, sleek silhouette. It’s a shoe that’s both stylish and comfortable, making it a favorite among sneakerheads and athletes alike.
Benefits:
- Unique design elements
- Responsive cushioning
- Signature colorways
VS:
| Air Jordan 6 | Air Jordan 9 |
|---|---|
| Unique design elements | Leather construction |
| Responsive cushioning | Comfortable fit |
| Signature colorways | Classic silhouette |
5. Air Jordan 11
The Air Jordan 11 was first released in 1995 and was designed by Tinker Hatfield. The AJ11 introduced several new features, including the patent leather construction, the carbon fiber plate in the sole, and the unique Cordura nylon upper.
The AJ11’s design was inspired by formal dress shoes and features a sleek, sophisticated silhouette. It’s a shoe that’s both stylish and comfortable, making it a favorite among sneakerheads and athletes alike.
Benefits:
- Patent leather construction
- Responsive cushioning
- Classic silhouette
VS:
| Air Jordan 11 | Air Jordan 13 |
|---|---|
| Patent leather construction | Unique design elements |
| Responsive cushioning | Comfortable fit |
| Classic silhouette | Signature colorways |
6. Air Jordan 13
The Air Jordan 13 was first released in 1997 and was designed by Tinker Hatfield. The AJ13 introduced several new features, including the holographic Jumpman logo on the ankle, the unique panther paw-inspired outsole, and the hidden lacing system.
The AJ13’s design was inspired by MJ’s love of luxury cars and features a sleek, aerodynamic silhouette. It’s a shoe that’s both stylish and comfortable, making it a popular choice among sneakerheads and athletes alike.
Benefits:
- Unique design elements
- Comfortable fit
- Signature colorways
VS:
| Air Jordan 13 | Air Jordan 5 |
|---|---|
| Unique design elements | Classic silhouette |
| Comfortable fit | Responsive cushioning |
| Signature colorways | Iconic branding |
7. Air Jordan 14
The Air Jordan 14 was first released in 1998 and was designed by Tinker Hatfield. The AJ14 introduced several new features, including the unique Ferrari-inspired design elements, the carbon fiber shank in the sole, and the hidden lacing system.
The AJ14’s design was inspired by MJ’s love of luxury cars and features a sleek, aerodynamic silhouette. It’s a shoe that’s both stylish and functional, making it a popular choice among sneakerheads and athletes alike.
Benefits:
- Unique Ferrari-inspired design elements
- Durable construction
- Comfortable fit
VS:
| Air Jordan 14 | Air Jordan 7 |
|---|---|
| Unique Ferrari-inspired design elements | Classic silhouette |
| Durable construction | Comfortable fit |
| Comfortable fit | Iconic branding |
8. Air Jordan 16
The Air Jordan 16 was first released in 2001 and was designed by Wilson Smith III. The AJ16 introduced several new features, including the unique shroud cover that could be removed to reveal the shoe’s inner workings, the hidden lacing system, and the visible Air unit in the sole.
The AJ16’s design was inspired by MJ’s love of luxury cars and features a sleek, sophisticated silhouette. It’s a shoe that’s both stylish and functional, making it a popular choice among sneakerheads and athletes alike.
Benefits:
- Unique shroud cover design
- Comfortable fit
- Iconic branding
VS:
| Air Jordan 16 | Air Jordan 15 |
|---|---|
| Unique shroud cover design | Unique woven upper |
| Comfortable fit | Comfortable fit |
| Iconic branding | Responsive cushioning |
9. Air Jordan 17
The Air Jordan 17 was first released in 2002 and was designed by Wilson Smith III. The AJ17 introduced several new features, including the unique lace cover that could be removed to reveal the shoe’s inner workings, the hidden lacing system, and the visible Air unit in the sole.
The AJ17’s design was inspired by MJ’s love of luxury cars and features a sleek, sophisticated silhouette. It’s a shoe that’s both stylish and functional, making it a popular choice among sneakerheads and athletes alike.
Benefits:
- Unique lace cover design
- Comfortable fit
- Responsive cushioning
VS:
| Air Jordan 17 | Air Jordan 18 |
|---|---|
| Unique lace cover design | Unique shroud cover design |
| Comfortable fit | Comfortable fit |
| Responsive cushioning | Signature colorways |
10. Air Jordan 20
The Air Jordan 20 was first released in 2005 and was designed by Tinker Hatfield. The AJ20 introduced several new features, including the unique laser-etched upper, the hidden lacing system, and the visible Air unit in the sole.
The AJ20’s design was inspired by MJ’s love of luxury cars and features a sleek, sophisticated silhouette. It’s a shoe that’s both stylish and functional, making it a popular choice among sneakerheads and athletes alike.
Benefits:
- Unique laser-etched upper
- Comfortable fit
- Responsive cushioning
VS:
| Air Jordan 20 | Air Jordan 19 |
|---|---|
| Unique laser-etched upper | Unique woven upper |
| Comfortable fit | Comfortable fit |
| Responsive cushioning | Classic silhouette |
In conclusion, there are many great retro Jordan shoes to choose from, but the Air Jordan 1, 3, 4, 6, 11, 13, 14, 16, 17, and 20 stand out as some of the best. Each shoe has its own unique design and features, making it a worthy addition to any sneaker collection.
Frequently Asked Questions
Retro Jordan Shoes have been popular since their introduction in the 1980s. The brand has released several styles over the years, and fans have their favorites. If you’re wondering what the best Retro Jordan Shoe is, check out these frequently asked questions.
What is the Best Retro Jordan Shoe for Basketball?
If you’re looking for a Retro Jordan Shoe for basketball, the Air Jordan 11 is a top choice. These shoes were first released in 1995, and they are still a favorite among basketball players. The shoes feature a patent leather upper, which provides support and durability. The Air Jordan 11 also has a full-length Air-Sole unit, which provides cushioning and impact protection. Whether you’re playing on the court or just practicing your skills, the Air Jordan 11 is a great choice.
Another great Retro Jordan Shoe for basketball is the Air Jordan 4. These shoes were first released in 1989, and they have a classic design that still looks great today. The Air Jordan 4 features a leather upper and a visible Air-Sole unit in the heel. The shoes also have a unique lace system that provides a secure fit. If you want a Retro Jordan Shoe that looks great on and off the court, the Air Jordan 4 is a good choice.
What is the Best Retro Jordan Shoe for Fashion?
If you’re looking for a Retro Jordan Shoe for fashion, the Air Jordan 1 is a top choice. These shoes were first released in 1985, and they are still a favorite among sneakerheads. The Air Jordan 1 features a leather upper and a rubber outsole. The shoes also have the iconic “Wings” logo on the side. The Air Jordan 1 comes in a variety of colors and styles, so you can find a pair that matches your personal style.
Another great Retro Jordan Shoe for fashion is the Air Jordan 3. These shoes were first released in 1988, and they have a unique design that stands out. The Air Jordan 3 features a leather upper and a visible Air-Sole unit in the heel. The shoes also have a “elephant print” on the toe and heel. The Air Jordan 3 comes in a variety of colors, so you can find a pair that matches your wardrobe.
What is the Best Retro Jordan Shoe for Collectors?
If you’re a collector of Retro Jordan Shoes, the Air Jordan 11 “Concord” is a must-have. These shoes were first released in 1995, and they are still one of the most popular Retro Jordan Shoes. The Air Jordan 11 “Concord” features a patent leather upper and a translucent outsole. The shoes also have the iconic “Jumpman” logo on the side. The Air Jordan 11 “Concord” is a classic shoe that will never go out of style.
Another great Retro Jordan Shoe for collectors is the Air Jordan 4 “Bred”. These shoes were first released in 1989, and they have a classic design that collectors love. The Air Jordan 4 “Bred” features a leather upper and a visible Air-Sole unit in the heel. The shoes also have a unique lace system that provides a secure fit. The Air Jordan 4 “Bred” is a shoe that collectors will always want in their collection.
Top 10 BEST Air Jordan Sneakers Of All Time
After much deliberation and research, it is clear that the best retro Jordan shoe is subjective and dependent on personal preference. Each shoe has its own unique design and history, making it difficult to definitively choose one over the other. However, it cannot be denied that the Air Jordan 1 Retro High OG is a fan favorite and widely considered a classic.
The Air Jordan 1 Retro High OG not only holds a special place in sneaker culture but also in basketball history. It was the shoe that started it all, the first Air Jordan sneaker released in 1985. Its timeless silhouette and iconic colorways have made it a must-have for sneaker enthusiasts and basketball fans alike. Ultimately, the best retro Jordan shoe is the one that speaks to you and your personal style, whether it be the Air Jordan 1 or another classic design.
