Jordan Sneakers Information
The Air Jordan sneaker is one of the most popular basketball sneakers to date. Introduced in 1985, the sneaker sparked controversy that propelled its popularity and eventually parlayed into a cult-like following. Several different sneakers have been inspired by and born from the Jordan, and they remain some of Nike's most popular sneakers. Does this Spark an idea?
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Inception
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The Jordan sneaker came to be when Nike, the well-known sneaker brand, needed a way to liven up sales. The original Jordans, were produced for and endorsed by Michael Jordan. The Air Jordan I, the first off the line, was designed by Peter Moore and introduced in 1985. The NBA originally disallowed the shoe because its black and red colors violated league rules, but the sneaker gained popularity regardless.
Popularity
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Starting in 1985, the sneaker picked up popularity quickly, and the Jordan line of sneakers is one of the most collected shoes in history. "Sneakerheads" classify the sneakers by the shoe name, release, and often by nicknames. Re-releases of Jordans are among the most popular sneakers (that is, previously issues Jordans that are re-released on the market in limited numbers). For example, the original Jordan 1 began a re-release in 2001 that created a market for the sneakers again. Several color combinations are available.
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Identification
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The Air Jordan is easily identifiable by the "Jumpman" logo printed on the shoes. The "Jumpman" logo is a silhouette of a basketball player in flight with the basketball palmed in one hand. The logo appears on the heel as well as on the tongue of the sneaker.
Misconceptions
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Many believe that the numeric naming of the sneaker ended due to lack of popularity, but the last numeric shoe was the Jordan 23. Because Michael Jordan's number was 23, the Jordan subdivision of Nike seized this number to honor the star. The most recent Jordan is the Air Jordan 2009.
Current Editions
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Currently, the Air Jordan division of Nike runs and is operated as a separate entity. There are 24 different incarnations of the shoe, but several more special edition, quick-strike editions, and color combinations that leave the total number of different Jordan sneakers totaling to over 100.
Non-basketball Sneakers and Other Apparel
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The Jordan brand was long known for its basketball sneakers, but the company now also offers cross-trainers and casual, baseball and football sneakers to meet the needs of athletes and consumers. Sports apparel, such as t-shirts and shorts, is also available under the brand name.
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