Air Jordan IX 1993
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White/Black-Varsity Red |
Stylecode 136001101 |
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The Air Jordan IX (9)
was released for the 1993-94 NBA season, not long after Jordan's first
retirement. As a result this is one of the few Air Jordan's that Michael
never laced up for an NBA game. This shoe is, however, featured on the
statue of Jordan outside the United Centre in Chicago where the Bulls
play.
The design of the Air
Jordan IX was a huge departure from previous models. There had been a
clear progression of all of Tinker Hatfield's Jordan designs from III to
VIII but this was very different. Many people likened them to hiking shoes
and as with many models before it, fans were divided over whether they
liked them or not.
The clean upper
styling covered an Huarache style mesh inner bootie. A speed lacing system
was introduced with thin laces and plastic lace loops. The lace holes
faced along the shoe rather than outwards. One pull and the laces were
snug.
Mirroring the rise of
the popularity of both Michael and the NBA across the world, the designers
added international developments to the design. The heel of the shoe
featured a globe with a Jumpman in front of it. On the outsoles, Nike
Laser designer, Mark smith, added another globe and words such as
"Freedom", "Athletic", "Graceful" and "Dedicated" in various languages.
The Air Jordan IX was
re-issued as a retro in early 2002. Unlike the originals the uppers
featured thinner leather and they did not have the plastic lace loops on
the bottom lace holes. As a result of the changes, originals such as these
have become highly prized by collectors.
Men's US Size - Sold Out 16 June 2005 |
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