A quarter-century ago, we first laid eyes on the Air Jordan 11 when Michael Jordan, contrary to the behest of Nike and footwear designer Tinker Hatfield, decided to wear an early sample of the shoe during the 1995 NBA Playoffs. The world was stunned as NBA on NBC commentator Ahmad Rashad took a moment to recognize the shiny new Air Jordans prior to tip-off. The shoes wouldn’t release until a year later as part of the legendary 72-10 campaign by the Chicago Bulls, and since then its been considered to be among the greatest basketball shoes in history.
While Air Jordan 11 releases at year’s end has becoming a tradition, Jordan Brand is ensuring that the first look from 25 years ago is getting its recognition. This upcoming Air Jordan 11 25th Anniversary features an all black upper with metallic Jumpman logos on the heel, a white midsole, and an opaque outsole for an outstandingly sharp colorway. For the first time ever, “JORDAN” will appear via metallic lettering on the eyelets – an early design choice by Tinker Hatfield. The Air Jordan 11 DMP from 2006 was also set to feature this unique detail, but once again it was ultimately shelved – although some pairs managed to leak out and become hot collectors items.
The Air Jordan 11 25th Anniversary is currently scheduled to release on December 12th, 2020 for $220; full family sizes of these Jordans are also expected.
UPDATE (11/11/2020):
Nike News has recently confirmed this pair as the Air Jordan XI “Jubilee” inspired by early sketches of the model. The pair was confirmed alongside the Air Jordan XI Adapt, a self-lacing version celebrating the silhouette’s 25th Anniversary. Official images added here below.
UPDATE (09/28/2020):
More images of the “25th Anniversary” Air Jordan 11 have surfaced.
UPDATE (08/14/2020):
More images of the “25th Anniversary” Air Jordan 11 have been revealed alongside a first look at its packaging.
Air Jordan 11 Retro
Release Date: December 12th, 2020
$220/$180/$95/$75
Color: Black/Multi-Color/White/Multi-Color
Style Code: CT8012-011
Photos: earlygvng / s.sam.group