The Air Jordan line is more than a collection of basketball sneakers—it’s a cultural phenomenon that has transcended sport to influence music, fashion, and lifestyle around the globe. Since the release of the original Air Jordan 1 in 1985, each model has reflected not only Michael Jordan’s evolving career but also cutting-edge design and performance technology. Let’s take a walk through the complete history of Air Jordans—from 1 to 38.
Air Jordan 1 (1985)
Designed by: Peter Moore
The shoe that started it all. Banned by the NBA for violating uniform policy, the AJ1’s rebellious spirit made it a legend. Its bold colorways and iconic high-top design created the blueprint for future signature sneakers.
Air Jordan 2 (1986)
Designed by: Bruce Kilgore
Made in Italy, the AJ2 featured luxury detailing and ditched the Swoosh. It was a bold departure from its predecessor, focusing on premium materials and performance.
Air Jordan 3 (1988)
Designed by: Tinker Hatfield
Introduced the elephant print, visible Air unit, and the Jumpman logo. It saved Jordan’s relationship with Nike and became one of the most beloved sneakers in the line.
Air Jordan 4 (1989)
Tinker Hatfield again
The AJ4 introduced mesh, wing eyelets, and a global release. It gained pop culture fame when Spike Lee featured it in Do the Right Thing.
Air Jordan 5 (1990)
Inspired by World War II fighter planes, the AJ5 brought reflective tongues, lace locks, and a translucent outsole. Another Hatfield classic.
Air Jordan 6 (1991)
Worn during MJ’s first NBA Championship. It introduced a reinforced toe and a molded heel tab for comfort.
Air Jordan 7 (1992)
African tribal patterns and a Huarache-inspired inner bootie defined the AJ7. Jordan wore these during the Barcelona Olympics as part of the “Dream Team.”
Air Jordan 8 (1993)
Known for its criss-cross straps and bold designs, the AJ8 was rugged and loud—fitting for Jordan’s third consecutive championship.
Air Jordan 9 (1994)
Released during Jordan’s first retirement, the AJ9 was a tribute to his global influence. It appeared on his statue outside the United Center.
Air Jordan 10 (1995)
Featuring a list of Jordan’s career achievements on the outsole, the AJ10 marked his brief return to the NBA wearing No. 45.
Air Jordan 11 (1995)
Patent leather elegance meets court dominance. Worn during the Bulls’ record-breaking season and in Space Jam, this is arguably the most iconic Air Jordan ever.
Air Jordan 12 (1996)
Inspired by Japanese rising sun imagery and luxury boots, the AJ12 brought Zoom Air and full-length cushioning.
Air Jordan 13 (1997)
Modeled after a panther with holographic eyes and paw-like soles. Jordan wore these in his last full Bulls season.
Air Jordan 14 (1998)
Inspired by MJ’s Ferrari 550 Maranello, the AJ14 featured sleek lines and a shield Jumpman logo. Famously worn during the “Last Shot” of the 1998 Finals.
Air Jordan 15 (1999)
A polarizing design inspired by the X-15 jet and MJ’s tongue-out expression. It marked the post-retirement era.
Air Jordan 16–18 (2001–2003)
These models balanced innovation and formality. With shrouds, magnetic covers, and dress-shoe aesthetics, they reflected a more mature Jordan brand.
Air Jordan 19–21 (2004–2006)
Futuristic designs emerged, including Tech Flex material and carbon fiber shanks. AJ20 celebrated MJ’s life story with laser-etched details.
Air Jordan 22–25 (2007–2010)
Performance-focused tech, like interchangeable cushioning pods and Flywire, took center stage. The AJ23 celebrated MJ’s legendary number with precision.
Air Jordan 26–28 (2011–2013)
These sneakers embraced advanced tech like Zoom cushioning, shrouds, and decoupled outsoles. The AJ28 was especially radical in its zippered stealth design.
Air Jordan 29–31 (2014–2016)
Performance innovations blended with heritage. The AJ31 paid homage to the AJ1 while modernizing materials with Flyweave and FlightSpeed tech.
Air Jordan 32–34 (2017–2019)
Designed with performance athletes in mind, these shoes used lightweight construction and updated FlightPlate systems for elite play.
Air Jordan 35–36 (2020–2022)
Featuring Eclipse Plates and Zoom Air, these models emphasized responsiveness, stability, and energy return, while nodding to previous iconic designs.
Air Jordan 37 (2022)
Built for multidimensional movement, the AJ37 features carbon fiber, Zoom Strobel, and layers of containment for explosive play.
Air Jordan 38 (2023)
Combining performance with sustainability, the AJ38 uses Eco Foam Strobel and celebrates the triangle offense—a nod to MJ’s championship legacy.
The Cultural Legacy of Air Jordan
Beyond the court, Air Jordans have become staples of streetwear and high fashion. Collaborations with designers like Off-White’s Virgil Abloh, Travis Scott, and Dior have solidified the line’s status as a cultural icon.
Final Thoughts: More Than Just Sneakers
The Air Jordan line represents decades of innovation, storytelling, and basketball excellence. From the rebellious AJ1 to the performance-driven AJ38, each model adds a new layer to the Jordan legacy. Whether you wear them on the court or as fashion statements, Air Jordans will always be “more than just shoes”—they’re history in motion.
