One could argue that the Jordan Jumpman Swift 6 had a significant role to play in the sneaker legend’s 1999 portfolio. This model was launched after Michael Jordan’s transition from basketball superstar to Washington Wizards executive. So, instead of Jordan himself, the torch was passed to Team Jordan athletes like Eddie Jones, who played for the Charlotte Hornets back then, to endorse the brand on and off the court. And we must admit, they did not disappoint.
The Jumpman Swift 6 is still regarded as one of the best Jumpman launches of all time, so Jones played a crucial role in maintaining the Jordan brand’s relevancy during that shifting phase.
Unsurprisingly, though, Jones wasn’t the only NBA star to bring fame to this classic model. The man himself, Jordan, wore a stylish pair of black-and-white Swift 6’s for a 1999 Flight School video, a pair not unlike those showcased in this article. A colourway fans would definitely like to see return for the models 25th Anniversary this year.
A Closer Look at the Sneaker Design
These shoes deliver a futuristic aesthetic with pronounced lines and intricate designs adorning the leather upper. Plus, instead of traditional lacing, a sleek black suede shroud featuring a zipper fastening graces the shoe’s design.
The pair also flaunts Jumpman logos in black at the heel and in a vivid yellow by the zipper, adding that authentic Jordan branding touch. Notably, the initials ‘EJ’ appear on the lateral side, paying homage to the star athlete who wore the shoes and made them his signature model. Rounding off the duo-toned black and white midsole and outsole design are impactful elements that define this pair.
Of course, this dual-toned pair isn’t where the story ends in terms of available colours. Over time, numerous original colourways were introduced, including a striking black, white, and blue version sported by Mike Bibby, the notable Vancouver Grizzlies point guard.
However, this sneaker’s appeal stretches far beyond its remarkable design aesthetics and stunning choices in colour. The Jumpman Swift 6 is feature-packed with impressive technology including a Phylon midsole, Zoom Air units at the forefoot with encapsulated air sole units at the heel, a TPU shank plate and proven herringbone traction. These components come together beautifully to create a supportive, cushioned, low-profile basketball shoe focused on supporting agile play.
It’s also worth noting the remarkable resemblance of this shoe to the Air Jordan 15, which was also unveiled in 1999. Much like several other early Jumpman iterations, the Swift 6 incorporated design elements from MJ’s signature shoes of that era, which was specifically the AJ15 in this case. It was essentially released as an affordable derivative of the higher-priced flagship Air Jordan model. As such, you can spot elements of the AJ 15 mirrored in the dramatic, angular design of the Swift 6, lending it an overall sleek look.
Will Nike Re-release the Jordan Swift 6 in 2024?
Although the Jumpman Swift 6 had its glory days back in 1999, it made a nostalgic return to the sneaker world in 2019 to celebrate its 20th anniversary.
The revival was a mirror image of the original model worn by icons like Jones and Jordan back in 1999. It boasted a white leather upper punctuated by a black nubuck toe. That said, the signature “EJ” logo was noticeably absent.
Of course, now that it’s 2024 and the 25th anniversary of the Swift 6 looms large, sneaker enthusiasts are really keen on another relaunch of this beautiful model.
However, we must mention that there’s no official word yet on a new release from Jordan Brand itself. For now, fans just have to keep their fingers crossed for another chance to flaunt a brand-new pair.
On the brighter side, diehard devotees of the highly sought-after shoe always have the alternative of go-to resale platforms such as eBay and StockX if they simply cannot wait for Jordan Brand to pull this one out of the archives.
As we all patiently anticipate another possible release of the iconic Jordan Jumpman Swift 6 in the future, don’t forget to stay tuned with us here at Sneaker Fortress for more of the latest sneaker drops and the odd trip down sneaker memory lane.
What are your thoughts on this vintage basketball shoe from the 90s? Should Nike continue with the retro-releases of the Jordan Jumpman 6? Drop your thoughts in the comment section below!
Images: @petes_jordan
