Sneakerheads around the world are on high alert as Nike recently announced the return of the Air Jordan 11 Retro Legend Blue. It is one of the most iconic and sought-after models from the Jordan brand. The sneaker is based on the shoe Michael Jordan displayed during the 1996 NBA All-Star game. The Jordan Brand is all set to release them on December 14, 2024. Like most retro releases from the brand, the ‘Legend Blue’ is anticipated to be sold out almost instantly. So, the announcement has created a frenzy among fans who have been waiting to cop one for some time.
The Air Jordan 11 Retro Legend Blue is based on the 1996 Jordan 11 ‘Columbia’ first worn by Michael Jordan during the 1996 NBA All-Star Game. It has a huge significance in the career of the Black Cat. After two years of absence from the All-Star weekend, as he chased his baseball dream, 1996 marked MJ’s return. As Jordan took center stage among superstars, every eye was on him. This was the perfect time to display the new sneaker that had been in the works.
The game also featured one of the most iconic All-Star uniforms ever. The teal-heavy design was inspired by San Antonio fiestas and was highlighted by large chili pepper logos. The primary white sneaker was a perfect contrast to the Eastern Conference uniform. Also, the secondary color which was a representation of his time with the North Carolina Tarheels was a close match to the hue.
In the game, Michael Jordan played 22 minutes and had some impressive plays to clinch the MVP award on his return to the biggest stage. It was as if he was never away. Ever since that night, the Jordan 11s have been part of NBA history. In 2001, Jordan 11 made its comeback in a Retro version for the first time. The Jordan brand dubbed it the ‘Legend Blue’.
One of Michael Jordan’s favorite sneakers
The Air Jordan 11s were once voted as the greatest sneaker ever made by millions of fans in a poll conducted by Sole Collector. Notably, this was also reportedly Michael Jordan’s favorite shoe. The 6x NBA champion has sported them on multiple occasions in recent years.
The sneaker’s style did not follow the conventional shoe designs of the 90s. It’s often credited with inspiring a new era of sneaker design. Interestingly, legendary designer Tinker Hatfield once talked about the Jordan 11s.
Hatfield said: “The 11 is probably the most remarkable shoe, yes. It was a bold approach to use new materials and new technologies. We worked really hard on 11, and Michael liked it too much.”
Are the Jordan 11s your favorite sneaker like millions of other fans including the 6x NBA champion himself? Let us know in the comments.