Monday, October 20, 2014

Air Jordan 23(XXIII) History

The number 23 was Michael Jordan’s numberAir Jordan XX3 (23) for most of his career and now 2008 marks the 23rd year of the production of the Air Jordan line. Jordan Brand, Tinker Hatfield and Michael Jordan of course teamed up to release the Air Jordan XX3 (23) shoe. The Air Jordan XX3 will be the first basketball shoe from Nike to embrace the Nike Considered design, where details in the development and design of the shoe seek to reduce waste and allow for use of environmentally preferred materials without comprising the athletic performance. The Nike Considered design ethos is one of the several company-wide corporate responsibilities that Nike Inc. has implemented to sustain long-term growth and innovation.

The Air Jordan XX3 is one of the most complex and complicated shoes of its time and much research and development went into the shoe to find the perfect look and feel. Here are some of its features seen in the shoe. An automotive quality painting process was used for the backside of the Thermo Plastic Urethane chassis is completed by an efficient robot arm to maximize the quality, consistency and durability of the paint and component. To help out with the environment, the outsole is composed of environmentally preferred materials that reduces the toxins and uses the Nike grind material from footwear outsole manufacturing waste.
One of the most important aspects of the Air Jordan 23 is its exterior and it is composed of many different materials and designs. Air Jordan XX3 (23)For the upper, a newly engineered technique that uses a machine to stitch the upper in 3-D form was implemented into design. A very important aspect of the shoe is its high comfort level; a dual density sock liner offers full comfort while the recovery foam around the heel conforms to foot shapes to create a more custom fit. The reinforced quarter panels from and holds the exact shape and the breathable tongue allows air to escape, which keeps the foot cooler.
The same ingenuity and effort that went into the upper can be seen in the mid-sole/outsole. A full length Zoom Air sole unit was used to provide superior cushioning. Another noticeable feature is how light the shoe feels. Weighing in only at 15 ounces, the lightness of the shoe increases the agility and stability.

The Air Jordan XX3 features some unique designs that add that special touch to the shoe. An imprint of Michael Jordan’s fingerprint is seen as the pattern on the outsole. More of Michael Jordan went into the shoe besides his fingerprint; his signature can be seen on the toecap, a nice touch added to the shoe. The handcrafted MJ stitch pattern offers beautiful detailing and function.
Air Jordan XX3 (23)
An exclusive limited release of the Air Jordan XX3 will launch on Friday, January 25, 2008 with a suggested price of $230. An All-Star release will launch on Saturday February 16, 2008 with a suggested retail price of $185. The nationwide launch will be released on Saturday, February 23, 2008 with a suggested retail price of $185. Retailer information can be found at Jumpman23.com.

Air Jordan 22(XXII) History

The Air Jordan 22 was inspired by F-22 Raptor Strike Fighter, when you look at the F-22 Raptor you see the light camo spots sharp aerodynamic cuts that can cut through the air like ice. Some of the characteristics of the F-22 can be seen on the Air Jordan 22.

Jordan Brand has used the Independent Podular Suspension (IPS) on the Air Jordan XX1 and with the success they have also
Air Jordan XX2 Sampleused it on the Air Jordan XX2. Unlike the past model using IPS the pods were a little difficult to remove, so on the Air Jordan XX2 the pods are square with a little tongue to pull them out. Also the interchangeable Zoom Air pod is double stacked, which reduces the cushioning hardness.

Early samples of the Air Jordan XX2 had vents on the heel with stitching starting at the heel running almost through the toe box. Samples also had a removable strap, but Michael did not like the look of the strap so this was dropped. The shank plate is made from thermoplastic urethane which is also coated with paint containing metallic titanium.

The following was taken from Jordan Brand official website:

STYLE/INSPIRATION

Soaring design lines: The XX2 swooping aggressive lines mirror the unique flight pattern of the F-22 Raptor.
Full-grain upper: The Air Jordan XX2 is crafted from elegant full-grain leathers for an unmatched level of lasting sophistication.
Radar stitching: Defiant zigzag stitching reflects both the F-22's ability to disrupt enemy radar and Air Jordan's heritage of delivering the unexpected.
Jumpman heel cover: The distinct heel of the XX2 only reveals the Jumpman logo at certain angles, a reflective jet fighter cockpit.
Jordan camouflage: A unique Jordan camouflage pattern is printed in reflective 3M for a daring look that changes in different light conditions.

FIT/PROTECTION

Titanium shank plate: With its incomparable strength-to-weight ratio and atomic number 22,"tensegrity" patterned titanium provides the ultimate in mid-foot and arch support.
Performance heel: The XX2 is both lightweight and supportive. Thanks to an efficient sculpted design and ultra-stable extended heel counter.
Molded vents: Like the technology, hidden beneath the wings of the F-22, molded TPU vents not only dissipate heat but follow the contours of your ankle for a better fit.
Next-level lacing: The variable speed lacing system on the XX2 features durable titanium-coated eyelets and a remarkably effective lace-lock.
Protective toe cap: A silver cap bearing the world's most famous number shield, the toe of the XX2.

COMFORT

Quilted collar & bootie: The triangular quilted pattern on the foam-backed collar and integrated seamless bootie, maximises both comfort and breathability.
Superior sock liner: Even the XX2's sock liner is hi-tech with its shock-absorbing heel pad and midfoot vent cutouts.
Breathable tongue: A special triangular ventilation pattern and red woven metallic mesh help maximises air flow.

TRACTION

Translucent outsole: Crafted from the clearest rubber available, the XX2's outsole redefines sticky while permitting more natural foot movement with its saw-toothed edges.
Enhanced traction pattern: Based on a sargeant's stripes, the XX2's innovative outsole offers the most effective multi-directional Jordan traction ever.
Cushioning pods: Strategically mapped pods offer the last word in tuned cushioning performance by utilizing varying densities of foam along with Air and IPS technologies.

CUSHIONING

Variable Independent Podular Suspension: IPS cushioning technology has evolved to a colour coded visible, interchangeable pillar, with either responsive double stacked zoom air or shock absorbing encapsulated air.
Low profile midsole: The phylon midsole provides a responsive stance that works seamlessly with the XX2's formidable cushioning firepower.
Air Jordan XX2 (22)
When head designer of the Air Jordan XX2 D'Wayne Edwards knew the XX1 was heavy, so he had made the XX2 lighter. What caused this is the cutting of foam and midsole material also from the use of TPU composite shank plate.

Retail price for the Air Jordan 22 is $174.99 while a special Air Jordan XX2 made of Basketball Leather sold at $179.99. At the 2007 All Star game in Las Vegas you can see NBA Players wearing the Air Jordan XX2 such as Rip Hamilton and Ray Allen.

Air Jordan 21(XXI) History

Jordan Brand went with designer D'Wayne Edwards for the Air Jordan 21. The design of the Air Jordan XXI is very simple compared to the other Air Jordan models. But like always, the Air Jordan XXI was full of high tech materials.

With each year gone by, it is less likely that we will see Michael Jordan back in the NBA (sorry, I hate to break the news). Knowing this, the Air Jordan XXI was best described as being the DNA of a champion.
Air Jordan XXI History
Nothing new as far as inspirations go on the Air Jordan 21, which came from a Bentley Continental GT coupe (another car). The front of the Air Jordan XXI is said to look like the grill on the Bentley.

The box that came with the Air Jordan XXI was nice. When opened, Air Jordan XXI Historythere are two separate compartments for each shoe. Also, the shoes came with a bag that can hold your air Pods.

Here is information released from Jordan Brand on technology, and the profile on the Air Jordan XXI:

Upper: Combination of luxurious Italian suedes with rich full-grain leathers. Forefoot breathability features are combined with a newly engineered durable textile for support and durability in key performance areas. Extended heel counter construction provides extended ankle support. Newly foam-backed quilted collar complements the seamless booty construction to provide maximum comfort. Breathable mesh is brought to the tongue to dissipate heat, while the adjustable tongue cover flips up to expose the breathable technology, or flips down for a more sophisticated look.

Mid sole : Fully-double lasted phylon mid sole provide a low-profile stance. Evolution of the I.P.S (Independent Podular Suspension) now includes interchangeable cushioning technology with a customizable heel zoom pillar or heel encapsulated pillar. Carbon fiber shank plate offers mid foot and arch support.
Air Jordan XXI History
Out Sole : New I.P.S. technology is integrated with the out sole through raised herringbone pods for traction in strategic performance areas. New innovative out sole pattern offers multi directional traction.

Profile : The future is now. The next generation of the greatest performance basketball shoe designed for the greatest player to ever play the game. The Air Jordan 21 shoe embodies all the elements: The man, the style, the legend... Michael Jordan.

The Air Jordan XXI released in four different colorways ($175.00), and two Lows.

Sunday, October 19, 2014

Air Jordan 20(XX) History

The Air Jordan 20 would launch in 2005, which means it was Nike and Jordan Brand's 20th anniversary. Tinker Hatfield had not designed for Jordan Brand since the Air Jordan XV, but it was Gentry Humphries' (Footwear Business Director) idea to have him design the Air Jordan XX. It took Tinker about five seconds before he responded with a yes.
Air Jordan XX History
Inspirations for the Air Jordan 20 came from custom trumpets, motorcycle tires and racing boots. David Monette, who designs custom trumpets and engraves designs (better known as lasering) was the cause of the Air Jordan XX for having the lasering on the mid foot strap. Mark Smith (Nike's laser expert) came to design the midfoot strap. Air Jordan XX 20 StealthsNow if you look close on the mid foot strap on the AJ XX you will notice symbols. Each symbol represents an experience MJ has had in his life. Here is some examples of what was on the shoe, and reasons for them:

1976 Chevrolet Monte Carlo - Michael sitting in the back seat represented with his mom (Deloris), bringing him along to her office when Michael was grounded.
The Bus Driver cap with golf clubs crossed - When you played a game with Michael in golf and you lost, you had to wear a bus driver cap on the walk back from the clubhouse.
Toolbox with the word POPs - This symbol was for the late and great James Jordan (Michael's Father R.I.P.), who could fix almost anything around the house.
44DT - For Hall of Fame David "Skywalker" Thompson, who Michael looked up to in the mid 1970's.
Air Jordan XX History
Air Jordan XX History IPSThe specs on the Air Jordan XX are insane, and since its Jordan Brand, you know already they were going to have the best technology. Some of the great qualities are: I.P.S.(Independent Podular Suspension) "pods", internal shank plate, phylon mid sole, and a cool strap to make the shoe feel a little more "secured" to your foot. When the Air Jordan XXreleased in 2005 a total of three colorways, plus a "Regional Pack", (that also contained three colorways) retail was $175.00. One pair of Lows and 3/4 model released for $125.00.

Air Jordan 19(XIX) History

Tate Kuerbis is back to design the Air Jordan 19, but he is not alone. With Tate is Jason Mayden, Wilson Smith, Josh Heard, and Suzette Henri. The new steps taken in the design of the Air Jordan XIX would need them all.
Air Jordan XIX (19) History
Inspiration for the Air Jordan 19 came from the deadliest snake in the world, the black mamba. When the black mamba feels threatened, it raises its body up in the air, shows its fangs, and makes a loud hissing sound. That alone intimidated many, does that sound like a familiar someone?Never before seen on a basketball shoe was a material called tech-flex. Air Jordan XIX (19) HistoryThis material is used in the automobile industry. Tech-flex is a material which can stretch, and since it is used on the Air Jordan XIX it gave your foot the comfort you need.

Some great qualities of the Air Jordan XIX is a carbon fiber shank plate, phylon midsole, full-length zoom air unit, patent leather toe box, tech-flex upper, Velcro heel strap and plastic lace-locks.

The Air Jordan 19 box was unique, and when you opened the box, it kind of broke from the middle, instead of the normal open from the top or side. Each shoe is in a Air Jordan net bag.

On the Air Jordan XVI XVII, modified models came as "+", and on the Air Jordan XVIII modified models came as XVIII.5 or 18.5. Now on the Air Jordan XIX modified models came as SE (which stands for Special Edition).

In 2004 when the Air Jordan XIX released, five colorways released, and three were in a "Regional Pack", with retail set at $165.00. Four Low models were released ($115.00) and four SE models as well ($165.00).
Air Jordan XIX (19) History




Air Jordan 18(XVIII) History

Tate Kuerbis was head designer of the Air Jordan 18. Tate was a part of Nike since 1995 and Jordan Brand since 1999. So designing shoes was nothing new to Tate.
Air Jordan XVIII HistoryInspirations can be seen from different places on the Air Jordan XVIII, for example the "rubber heel wrap" idea came from race car driving shoes, the Carbon fiber-based monocoque (F1 race cars), and the bold stitching came from Italian dress shoes, but the overall outlook was from the automobile world (one of Michael's adorations).
The Air Jordan 18 did not come with a fancy carrying case, or CD (which many of us enjoyed), but they did come with a nice slide out box, towel, brush, and an "Air Jordan XVIII Driver's Manual" pamphlet.
Air Jordan XVIII History
Like always with the newest Air Jordan to release, Jordan Brand wanted to bring out the latest in technology. The Air Jordan XVIII contained air vents, carbon comfort plate, Air Jordan XVIII Historyhidden quick lace system, suede leather uppers and zoom air sole. Since the uppers were made out of suede, they did attract a lot of dust, dirt marks and scuffs. Also the soles and mid sole were made of rubber, and just like the Air Jordan V they collect dust, which can make someone slip and fall. If you played in an indoor gym, you were OK.
On the Air Jordan XVI and XVII, Jordan Brand would use the "+" for a modified model. The Air Jordan XVIII used a XVIII.5 or 18.5, which ever way you wanted to write them. Pretty much nothing changed except the removal of the cover, and the jumpman was now on the side of the shoe, also the date 1985-2003 was put on.
In 2003 when the Air Jordan 18 released, three models released, and retail for them was $175.00. Two low models released with a retail of $150.00. Later in 2003 the Air Jordan XVIII.5 released in two color ways and retail was set at $175.00.
Air Jordan XVIII History

Air Jordan 17(XVII) History

Michael Jordan was President of Basketball Operations for the Washington Wizards. When the 2001-2002 season came, Michael resigned his position as President of Basketball Operations, but signed a player contract. Guess who's back?
Air Jordan XVII History

Wilson Smith III designed the Air Jordan 17. Around the time sketching was started, Michael signed Michael Phillips the musician. So one key element to the Air Jordan XVII was from Jazz music. If you look on them you will notice molded in jazz notes. Also, inspirations for the shoe once again came from a car, this time being an Aston Martin. Air Jordan XVII HistoryThe soles were said to come from a golf course Michael played at.
The Air Jordan XVII were nicely made, and they came equipped with a removable mid-foot strap, Zoom Air sole, dynamic-fit sleeve, hidden quick lace system, lace-locks, leather uppers and carbon-fiber sheath.
When you purchased the Air Jordan 17, you got a nice metal carrying case and a CD. The price tag on the Air Jordan XVII had most people in shock, $200.00! The highest ever for a pair of Air Jordans.
In 2002, when the Air Jordan XVII released, four colorways came out, which retailed for $200.00. Three low models came out, ($150.00) and three mules ($100.00).