The Air Jordan 11 “Legend Blue” Returns In 2024

The Holiday 2024 lineup is brimming with must-have sneaker releases, but the Air Jordan 11 “Legend Blue” certainly stands out as a HUGE highlight. After a decade-long wait, this iconic colourway is finally making a return. Even better news for sneakerheads, though, is that there will be greater availability this time, making it easier than ever for fans to score a pair. 

The History Behind the Coveted Colourway

But before diving into what sneakerheads can anticipate from this year’s release, let’s take a stroll down memory lane. 

Many OG sneaker enthusiasts will recall the debut of the original Air Jordan 11 “Legend Blue,” a.k.a Columbia as if it were yesterday. The iconic colourway made its grand entrance in 1996, paying homage to Michael Jordan’s alma mater, the North Carolina Tar Heels. 

If that connection to Jordan’s legacy wasn’t enough, MJ himself famously wore this classic design during the 1996 NBA All-Star Game—his first All-Star appearance after returning from his initial retirement. 

The striking white and blue combo on the Air Jordan 11 quickly stole the hearts of fans, turning them into a prized pair in the sneaker world. Today, this sneaker can command prices up to $2000 USD on the resale market, contingent on the specific version we’re talking about. 

Speaking of different versions, the design saw its first retro release in 2001 and then thirteen years later in 2014. However, the shade of blue was officially changed to “Legend Blue” for the latter release, which also led to the sneaker’s nickname evolving.

Naturally, any change in a sneaker’s design is bound to start up debate in the sneakerhead community, and the Air Jordan 11 “Legend Blue” was certainly no exception.

What to Expect from the 2024 Air Jordan 11 “Legend Blue”

As for this latest iteration, it promises a blend of the original “Columbia” colourway and the 2014 “Legend Blue”. What does that mean for us? Well, we can expect the shoe to revert to its original shape, featuring higher-cut patent leather akin to the 1996 release but maintaining the “Legend Blue” shade instead of the OG “Columbia Blue”.

Essentially, this Air Jordan 11 Retro aims to stay as close to the original as possible, ensuring both nostalgia and style.

A Closer Look at the Sneaker

Thus, the 2024 iteration will feature a harmonious blend of “White,” “Legend Blue,” and “Black” tones throughout its design. The upper sports a clean white base, beautifully matched with a patent leather mudguard in the same hue. 

Adding a touch of flair, “Legend Blue” accents feature on the Jordan branding and the outsole. To cap it all off, Michael Jordan’s iconic number 23 graces the heel, making the connection to this legend of the game even more unmistakable.

Air Jordan 11 “Legend Blue” Release Details

The Air Jordan 11 “Legend Blue” is set to make its highly anticipated comeback on December 14, 2024. The sneaker will be available in full family sizing through Nike SNKRS and selected retailers. Pricing kicks off at $230 for men, $185 for grade school, $100 for preschool, $80 for toddlers, and $60 for crib sizes. 

Although OG Jordan colourways often drop in minimal quantities, sneakerheads can breathe a sigh of relief this time around. Jordan Brand has heard the calls and bumped up production numbers, likely exceeding a million pairs, to increase chances of securing this nostalgic release. 

While we eagerly await this fantastic opportunity, why not explore some other upcoming Air Jordan releases to add to your collection? Keep an eye out for the A Ma Maniere x Air Jordan 3 collaboration or the “Charlotte Hornets” revamp of the Jordan Air Ship by Opium. And remember to stay tuned here at Sneaker Fortress for more sneaker drops and reviews. 

Are you excited about the return of the Air Jordan 11 “Legend Blue” this Holiday 2024 season? Let us know if you’ll be grabbing a pair in the comments below!

Images: Instagram