Air Jordan 2011 – The Legacy Continues
The historic Air Jordan franchise continues with the Air Jordan 2011.
In an effort to continue their 26-year tradition of crafting a product that would raise the bar of the footwear industry, Jordan Brand set out to design the Air Jordan 2011 as one of the most technically advanced basketball sneakers the market has ever seen. It’s the first performance shoe to ever feature two interchangeable midsoles and allow the consumer to choose their desired cushioning system.
The sneakers were designed by Jordan Brand’s leading footwear designer, Tinker Hatfield, a man who’s been at the helm of the franchise since the Air Jordan 3. Tinker’s creations have always revolutionized the sneaker the industry, and the Air Jordan 2011 may just be his most revolutionary sneaker yet.
The shoes features a lightweight outershell that’s handcrated from Patina leather, a rich, premium material that’s never been used on a basketball sneaker before. Perforated detailing in a constellation inspired pattern is incorporated around the ankle to provide some breathability to the shoes and allow your feet to breath and remain cool during game play. The pattern is also meant to symbolize Jordan Brand as a universal company. After the shell of the shoe is completed, each pair is hand burnished, giving every single pair of the Air Jordan 2011 its own unique look. That’s right, you’ll find no two alike.
Getting back to the interchangeable midsoles mentioned earlier, the sneakers come with two sets of midsoles that are designed to give players the option of being quicker or more explosive on the court. The “quicker” pair comes in blue and features Zoom Air units in the forefoot and heel which give an extra responsive ride. The other pair is red and was built for players looking to be more explosive. This pair infuses a 3/4 length Air unit in a Cushlon-constructed midsole for an extra cushioned ride.
Retail price for the Air Jordan 2011 is $170, which is reasonable for the technology incorporated in the shoes and the fact you’re able to, in a way, customize them to your specific needs. The shoes were released on February 19th, 2011, during the NBA’s All-Star Weekend and they’re available now at distributors nationwide in an assortment of colorways.