This is where it all began crafted in 1984. What would become a legendary franchise for it’s focus on high performance footwear and it’s impact as a cultural icon, is born. The “Air Jordan I”. Considered revolutionary for its time, they are banned by the NBA for violating its “uniformity of uniform” rule. MJ wore his anyway, which incurred a $5,000 fine per game. The AJ I propelled him into making his first All-Star game appearance, earning Rookie of the Year honors and inspiring Boston Celtics legend Larry Bird to observe one performance as “God disguised as Michael Jordan.”
“Originally released November 1986, these “High Fashion” Italian designed sneakers became dubbed the “Italian Stallions”. The ’86-87 season proved to be the start of MJ’s record breaking streak. While claiming his spot at yet another All-Star game, Michael shows the world how to “Fly”, takes his first Slam Dunk Contest and claims his first in a series of scoring titles. MJ averages 37.1 points per game, and becomes the first NBA player since Wilt Chamberlain to top 3,000 points in a season. It was all done in this de-swooshed, fuax lizard upper, full length Air sole time bomb.”
“This was the very first design by the legendary Tinker Hatfield and featured the visible Nike Air and textured synthetic elephant skin. We were also introduced to what would become a symbol of the cultural Icon; the “Jumpman” logo. Spike Lee makes his first appearance as “Mars Blackmon” in Nike television ads, sparking a huge cult following. MJ accomplishes his first NBA MVP award, Defensive Player of the Year honors, and another Slam Dunk trophy. In an interview with SLAM magazine, Michael cites the AJIII as one of his all-time favourites and in 2005 viewers of ESPN agreed, voting it the greatest sneaker of all time.”
“Made famous from it’s appearance in Spike Lee’s “Do the Right Thing”, the AJ IV escalated to international bestselling status. While MJ dominated the court, his sneakers dominated the store shelves. Impeccably designed, with breathable mesh inserts and trapezoidal stabilization straps, as well as, we get our introduction to the new “Flight” logo. This Tinker Hatfield design was made for fluidity, rhythm, and grace.”
“Dubbed “The Fighter”, designer Tinker Hatfield drew inspiration from the WWII Mustang fighter plane for the AJ V. Shining with it’s reflective tongue, clear soles, and plastic lace locks, MJ pressed out his 4th scoring title and a career high 69 point game against Cleveland.”
“Originally released February 1991 for what seemed like a fortune at $125.00. Seven years in the league and a championship soon under his belt, MJ continued to gain accolades as he gains his 5th scoring title, 2nd league and finals MVP’s and a spot on the All-Star team.”
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