These days, signature sneakers are far more than just athletic gear. They’re canvases detailing an athlete’s journey. It comes as no surprise then that Nike has put in the effort to make every model of the Jordan released extra special and with their own unique Michael Jordan story. For example, the Air Jordan 14 was specially sculpted with the sleek influence of His Airness’ Ferrari in mind. That said, some of the details on other Jays aren’t that obvious and don’t hide in plain sight. Here is a list of hidden details and secrets on Air Jordan sneakers you might have missed.
Hidden Details On The Air Jordan 6
At first glance, all you might see is just another cool sneaker. But look closer at the Air Jordan 6, and you’ll see an intricate “2” and “3” woven into the design, stretching across the entire upper. That’s a discreet and clever nod to Michael Jordan’s iconic jersey number.
The Air Jordan 1’s Wings Logo
Designed by Peter Moore, who also designed the famous three-stripe Adidas logo, the Air Jordan 1‘s wings logo was first sketched on a napkin and symbolizes Jordan’s flight abilities. So, the design is actually based on pins that flight attendants wear.
Hidden Details On The Air Jordan 7
You’ve probably spotted the shield logo on the heel of the Air Jordan 7, right? But did you ever decipher the esoteric ‘7’ intricately folded into the design? Clever, right?
The Air Jordan 16 Braille Secret
The Air Jordan 16’s shroud is hiding a little secret—literally. It features the word “Jordan” written vertically in Braille. Yep, even if you can’t see, you can read these kicks.
Air Jordan 11 Tongue Writing
At first glance, the Air Jordan 11‘s tongue looks like it borrowed some cryptic symbols from an ancient temple. But turn the sneaker 90 degrees, and suddenly, it spells out “JUMPMAN JORDAN.” Genius, right?
The Air Jordan XX1’s Cryptic Text
The Air Jordan XX1 took things to another level to counter the rise of fake sneakers. Exposed to black light, cryptic letters surface, spelling “AUTHENTIC” when rearranged. It’s kind of like a Da Vinci Code for sneaker authenticity.
Air Jordan XX3 Fingerprint Sole
The outsole pattern on the Air Jordan 23 isn’t random. It’s actually an adapted scan of Michael Jordan’s own fingerprint. That’s a pretty cool secret to hide on one of the most important Air Jordan sneakers.
Hidden Details On Air Jordan 15 Red Strip
The numerical sequences on the Air Jordan 15’s red strip are a homage to Michael Jordan’s life and career: 23 for the jersey, six rings, and, well, 15 for the shoe model. Even the tongue mimics MJ’s iconic tongue-wag.
Air Jordan 18 Car Clutch
Jordan’s love for cars sneaks its way into a lot of his sneaker designs—literally. Those random little nubs on the soles? They’re there to protect the leather while you’re busy working the clutch, gas, and brake pedals like a pro. But here’s the kicker: there are exactly nine bumps on each shoe, a sneaky nod to the 18th Air Jordan.
The Air Jordan 12 Secret
On the AJ12’s carbon fibre shank, you can spot six little “windows” on each sole—12 in total. Yep, it’s another clever shoutout to the shoe’s number.
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