The Air Jordan 9, Michael Jordan’s ninth signature shoe, is an odd one, because MJ himself barely wore them.
The Jordan 9 debuted in 1993 during Jordan’s first retirement from the NBA. Michael played baseball for a season in the minors, which is probably why the Air Jordan is considered to look like a baseball shoe. Production of the shoe had begun before Michael had announced his retirement. Instead of marketing the shoe around MJ’s basketball skills, Nike used the opportunity to tap into Michael’s global influence.
They aren’t the greatest on-court performer and are surprisingly lacking in support. They feature enclosed Air cushioning in the heel, an inner bootie, and a “one pull” lacing system. Perhaps their best feature is their traction, but you might want to reach for other retro Jordans before you go for the Jordan 9.
AVERAGE RETAIL PRICE: $190
