In this article, we delve deep into the narratives and intricate designs behind all six of Michael Jordan’s championship Air Jordan sneakers, celebrating them as a tangible expression of his recognized legendary status.
Michael Jordan’s 6 Championship History
Two decades have passed since the world witnessed Michael Jordan’s triumphant sixth NBA championship-winning game. Since then, the NBA has seen a parade of incredible players – from New York City to as far afield as Yaoundé – gracing its courts. While the debate about the greatest basketball player of all time rages on, there’s one aspect of MJ’s legacy that remains unassailable – his profound impact on the vibrant realm of sneaker culture and the love for Michael Jordan’s championship shoes, many of which have gone on to become part of the most significant compilations of sports memorabilia. For many, though, Jordan remains and will always be “the standard by which basketball excellence is measured”, something actually said of him by then-NBA Commissioner David Stern.
Michael Jordan’s partnership with Nike, particularly the Air Jordan line, has etched an indelible mark on sneaker enthusiasts worldwide. During the 1990s, Michael Jordan secured an illustrious collection of six NBA Finals championships all in a Bulls jersey – a monumental result – and the kicks he sported during those historic games have transcended mere footwear to become cherished artefacts in the annals of sneaker history, with his game-worn sneakers fetching millions as premium modern collectables (for example, as part of Sotheby’s Dynasty Collection). Lest we forget, in addition to being an NBA champion, MJ is a two-time Olympic gold medalist.
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1. Air Jordan 6
When the Chicago Bulls clinched their first championship in 1991, Jordan was already seven seasons into his NBA career. The mid-1980s had been something of a learning curve for Jordan who, in spite of his individual brilliance, wasn’t able to bring home the ring with his team. Astoundingly, during this era, Michael Jordan was not the favoured candidate to lead his team to an NBA championship, let alone bring glory to an entire basketball franchise.
Yet, Jordan defied not only expectations through his high-level basketball excellence but also gravity, propelling his team to a resounding 4-1 victory over the Los Angeles Lakers in the NBA Finals – a truly momentous occasion for longtime Bulls fans and casuals alike. Equally momentous were the sneakers gracing MJ’s feet, meticulously crafted by the visionary Tinker Hatfield. The Air Jordan 6 (or Air Jordan VI) drew its inspiration from Michael Jordan’s beloved Porsche 911, showcasing an audacious large pull tab on the back, reminiscent of a Porsche’s spoiler. The Air Jordan 6 marked the commencement of MJ’s active involvement in the sneaker design process.
In his own words, “I spend countless hours with the technology people. We go over the certain things that I feel are very important in the shoe itself, which is going to enhance my playing ability, enhance my jumping ability as much as possible.” Jordan’s collaboration with Hatfield yielded remarkable results. Each iteration of the shoe was an improvement, fine-tuned with precision, guided by feedback from the man himself.
The Infrared Jordan 6 stands as a revered trophy for serious sneaker collectors. Its cultural significance transcends the court, as it was during this truly unparalleled moment that basketball reached unparalleled heights of popularity.
2. Air Jordan 7
The year 1992 witnessed the dominance of the “Dream Team” in the Olympics, with none other than Michael Jordan as its linchpin. This star-studded roster, featuring the likes of MJ, catapulted basketball into an international phenomenon. Basking in the glory of his second consecutive championship, Jordan became an international superstar.
This global recognition seeped into the design of the Air Jordan 7 (Air Jordan VII), making it the first pair of sneakers from Jordan to boldly omit Nike branding on the shoe. While Nike managed to sneak a small logo onto the insoles, the Air Jordan 7 proudly displayed “Air Jordan” across its neoprene tongue, adorned with the iconic Jumpman on a West African art-inspired outsole. Noteworthy colourways include the Raptor, Citrus, and Bordeaux. What’s your personal favourite among the Jordan 7 colourways?
3. Nike Air Jordan 8
In 1993, basketball aficionados were treated to a showdown between two beloved icons: Charles Barkley and Michael Jordan. The epic NBA Finals series marked the zenith of MJ’s career, both on and off the court. The Chicago Bulls carved their name in history as only the third team in NBA annals to secure three consecutive championships, with Jordan being the premier player to clinch Finals MVP trophy in each of the three championship series – a monumental feat, and a new record.
Tinker Hatfield’s design ethos for the Air Jordan VIII championship-clinching sneakers revolved around perpetual evolution. Up until that juncture, Jordan kicks had been steadily slimming down. However, the Jordan 8 embraced a chunkier design, replete with intricate details and complex elements. Standout features included the chenille Jumpman logo on the tongue and the X-strap borrowed from the Nike Air Raid silhouette.
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4. Nike Air Jordan 11
In March 1995, after a brief detour in minor league baseball, His Airness made his triumphant return to basketball, initially favouring the Jordan 10s. Yet, the allure of the Air Jordan XI proved irresistible. Nike had yet to grant permission for him to don the sneakers, but MJ’s love for them was insurmountable. The iconic moment arrived in 1996 during the first game of an epic NBA Finals series against the Seattle Supersonics when Jordan laced up a pair of fresh Air Jordan 11s and led the Bulls to yet another victory.
The Air Jordan 11 boasts a unique distinction: MJ exclusively sported the Concord colourway throughout the NBA season, only to debut the Bred colourway for the Finals – the inception of a trend that saw four consecutive championships sealed in black and red.
Of all of the championship sneakers, these are probably the favourites (and we know that they are Michael Jordan’s favourite sneakers).
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5. Air Jordan 12
Game 5 of the 1997 NBA Finals is etched in memory of Michael Jordan’s heroic performance while battling illness. Wearing Air Jordan 12 sneakers, which featured an updated carbon fibre heel shank from its predecessor, Jordan scored 38 points, securing a victory over the Utah Jazz. The shoe’s striking stitched panelling upper, inspired by the Japanese rising sun flag, was complemented by a full Zoom Air unit, marking a significant milestone in Jordan sneaker design.
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6. Air Jordan 14
Michael Jordan’s sixth championship win almost saw him sporting Air Jordan 13 sneakers, but he sealed the deal in an early prototype of the Air Jordan 14. Tinker Hatfield had advised against wearing the prototypes, but Jordan’s infatuation with them prevailed.
Inspired by Jordan’s newly acquired Ferrari 550 Maranello, the Air Jordan 14 featured a logo flip, transforming the Jumpman into the Ferrari logo. Design elements mirrored the car’s silhouette and stitching, culminating in a visually stunning sneaker.
In summation, Michael Jordan’s championship odyssey was not merely a testament to his basketball prowess but also a chronicle of evolving sneaker designs. Each of his championship sneakers narrates a unique story, reflecting the era and the man behind them. These sneakers transcend the realm of sports, becoming cultural icons that continue to captivate sneaker enthusiasts worldwide.
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Tell us, what are your favourite Michael Jordan championship sneakers?
