“Officially available in retail stores on February 19th, the Air Jordan XX is the most technologically advanced basketball shoe in the world, underscoring Jordan’s innovation platform and performance capabilities. Crafted by legendary shoe designer Tinker Hatfield, the motorcycle-inspired shoe weaves design and technology with the patented Independent Podular Suspension (IPS) and a laser-etched strap that includes over 200 icons, creating a tapestry of stories connected to Michael Jordan’s unparalleled life and career.
“The Air Jordan XX is a reflection and celebration of my life and career over the past two decades. It’s always been more than just a shoe to me,” said Michael Jordan. “I’m honored that even after 20 years, my loyal fans and friends have continued to support me and the legacy of Air Jordan.”
“I’m excited and honored to be working again with Michael Jordan,” says Hatfield, who designed the Air Jordan III through XV. “Every time we collaborate, we always try to take the shoe to the next level and do what’s never been done before. Because the shoe celebrates MJ’s past, but is technologically designed for the future, I definitely think we got it right again.”
“Available for retail on February 18 for $175, the Air Jordan XXI begins a new generation of sophisticated style and cutting edge technology. The Bentley-inspired shoe now comes with an even more advanced Independent Podular Suspension (IPS) technology that allows you to customize the cushioning support. Aesthetically, the Air Jordan XXI includes personal design elements from Michael Jordan himself, echoing his “DNA” – or characteristics – that make up his outstanding on-court performance and off-court persona. The shoe remains the most performance-enhancing on the market and is poised to lead the widely popular Air Jordan franchise well into the future.
“With last year’s Air Jordan XX, we looked back and celebrated the past twenty years,” says Michael Jordan, “The Air Jordan XXI is a look toward the future. We’re making the shoe more luxurious and more advanced in terms of technology, which sets the stage for the brand going into the next twenty years.”
“It is always an honor to work with Michael Jordan and design in true collaboration with him,” states Footwear Design Director D’Wayne Edwards, “We kept both his style and the true Jordan consumer in mind when we designed the shoe, continuing our tradition of creating technologically-superior basketball footwear.”
“Like prior Air Jordans, the design of the Air Jordan 22 (XX2 or XXII) was inspired by a work of art off of the court. Previous models were designed after such things as Michael’s own Ferrari, the X-15 fighter jet, and even the P-51 Mustang. The Air Jordan 22 (XX2 or XXII) took inspiration from one of the most advanced fighter jets in the world – the F-22 Raptor.
Like Mike, the F-22 Raptor is equally as threatening offensively as defensively. Combine the F-22’s speed of 1600 mph as well as being a stealth jet and you have paralleled qualities Mike had on the court.
The design of the upper has sharp lines which takes inspiration from the sharp maneuverability of the F-22 Raptor. The Air Jordan 22 (XX2 or XXII) features zig-zag stitching similar to that of the F-22 which helps conceal the jet from enemy radar. On the shoes, this stitching helps provide a well produced shoe with lasting quality. Lastly, one cannot miss the distinct yet stylish 3M reflective material on the back of the shoe which lights up the court in the lowest level of light.
Fit and Protection:
The Air Jordan 22 (XX2 or XXII) incorporates several crucial properties providing the athlete with the best fit and protection. The shoe boasts the best ankle history of any Air Jordan to date. The shoes have a variable speed lacing system coupled with titanium lace loops as well as a durable titanium lace lock. Next, the Air Jordan 22 has air vents like the F-22; however, rather than being used for stability while flying at Mach 2.4, these vents provide an escape for heat. The heel on the Air Jordan 22 (XX2 or XXII) is like no other. The diamond shape and extended heel counter protects even the most vulnerable athlete from a rolled heel. Lastly, in the past the Air Jordans have had a carbon fiber shank plate to provide midfoot stability, but for the Air Jordan 22 (XX2 or XXII) the shank plate is made of titanium. This shank is not only stronger, but also lighter weight. Oh yeah, the atomic number for titanium (Ti) is 22.
Cushioning:
The Air Jordan 22 (XX2 or XXII) takes with it the cushioning system of choice from the last two Air Jordans. The IPS (Independent Podular Suspension) returns with a new feature – its visible. This time the IPS is color coded so the athlete can choose his cushioning for each pod with either a responsive, double stacked Zoom Air pod, or a shock absorbing encapsulated air. In addition to the custom fit cushioing the IPS provides, the Air Jordan 22 (XX2 or XXII) also has a Phylon midsole to provide extra cushioning without adding extra weight.
Traction:
The first thing one will notice about the Air Jordan 22 (XX2 or XXII) is how translucent the clear part of the sole is. The clear sole sticks to the court making it possible to make cuts and stops like no other. With a podular like outsole, one can make moves on the court better than ever before.”
“From it’s humble beginings in 1985, with the release of the AIR JORDAN I—a white, red and black fashion statement that revolutionized the athletic footwear industry. In many ways like Michael Jordan himself, in his rookie season, the original AIR JORDAN was the beginning of something legendary. From Rucker Park to Park Avenue, from Hollywood to Wall Street, the AIR JORDAN sneaker has consistently been the most sought after athletic luxury basketball shoe. Sneaker enthusiasts have credited the shoe as the impetus behind “sneakerhead” collectible market. Twenty-three shoes later, the Jordan Brand introduces a product truly worthy of being called the “Greatest Basketball Shoe Ever,” the AIR JORDAN XX3, is poised to tilt the world once again.”
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