The Air Jordan 11 is one of the most iconic and beloved sneakers in the Air Jordan lineup. Released in the mid-1990s, the shoe’s history, sales, and reception have cemented it as a cultural and basketball phenomenon. Here’s an overview:
History of the Air Jordan 11
- Release Year: The Air Jordan 11 was first released in 1995.
- Design Inspiration: Designed by Tinker Hatfield, the Air Jordan 11 was unique for its combination of performance and style. Hatfield introduced patent leather on the shoe, which was unusual for basketball footwear at the time, giving it a sleek, upscale look.
- Materials: The Air Jordan 11 utilized lightweight materials, including ballistic mesh and full-grain leather, making it one of the most technologically advanced shoes of its time. The patent leather not only looked great but also improved stability.
- On-Court Performance: Michael Jordan wore the shoe during the 1995-1996 NBA season, which was a significant year for both Jordan and the Chicago Bulls. The team set a record 72-10 regular season record, and Jordan won his fourth NBA Championship wearing the Jordan 11 “Concord.”Jordan initially wore the shoes during the 1995 NBA Playoffs without approval from the league, as the NBA had not yet approved the color scheme of the “Concord” model.
Sales and Popularity
- Initial Sales: The Air Jordan 11 was an immediate hit when it was released. Fans and sneakerheads were captivated by the combination of style and performance. It sold out quickly, leading to multiple re-releases.
- Retro Releases: Since its debut, the Jordan 11 has been re-released (retroed) several times. Some of the most famous colorways, like the “Concord,” “Space Jam,” and “Bred” (black and red), have been released in limited runs and are highly coveted by collectors.
- Sales Figures: While Nike and Jordan Brand typically do not disclose specific sales numbers for individual models, the Jordan 11 is regularly regarded as one of the top-selling Jordans of all time. The retro versions, especially during the holiday season, have consistently broken records. For example, the 2018 retro release of the “Concord” 11 reportedly sold over a million pairs in a single weekend.
- Resale Market: The demand for certain Jordan 11s has kept them popular on the resale market, where original and retro versions can fetch significant prices depending on condition and rarity.
Reception from Basketball Fans
- On-Court Performance: When the Air Jordan 11 was released, it was lauded by athletes for its performance. The shoe provided excellent support, responsiveness, and cushioning, making it ideal for the fast, high-flying style of play that defined Michael Jordan’s game.
- Iconic Status: The Air Jordan 11 transcended basketball and became a cultural icon. Its appearance in the 1996 movie Space Jam, where Jordan wore the special edition Jordan 11 “Space Jam” colorway, further solidified its place in pop culture. Many basketball fans and sneaker collectors consider it one of the greatest basketball shoes ever made.
- Fan Reception: Over the years, the Air Jordan 11 has consistently ranked among the top sneakers in various fan polls and reviews. Many fans cite its combination of elegance (thanks to the patent leather) and performance as reasons for its lasting appeal.
Legacy
The Air Jordan 11 is often regarded as a game-changer in the sneaker world. Not only did it elevate the design of basketball shoes, but it also became a fashion statement. It has since been worn not only by athletes but also by celebrities and influencers, helping bridge the gap between sports and streetwear.
The Jordan 11’s blend of nostalgia, performance, and style has ensured its place as one of the most revered shoes in sneaker history. Fans continue to eagerly anticipate every retro release, and the shoe is still considered a cornerstone of sneaker culture.