Classic Heat For The Last Dance | Details

To commemorate the final episodes of Michael Jordan’s The Last Dance, we are delivering a special Details episode featuring three of MJ’s most memorable kicks. Worn between 1996 and 1998, Air Jordans 12, 13, and 14 were all present during pivotal moments in the Airness’s career. Throughout those years, Michael added three more NBA championships to his name, two MVP titles, and a “Best Defensive Player of the Year” award. Each pair’s unique design has helped MJ achieve such groundbreaking feats, further solidifying Michael as the greatest of all time. 

For starters, the Air Jordan 12 was the same model worn during MJ’s iconic “Flu Game”, where Michael scored 38 points during the playoffs against the Utah Jazz back in 1997. Since then, the Air Jordan 12 has been considered one of his most coveted sneakers. Aesthetically, the original 12s colorways, such as the “Playoffs” featured here, are dressed in a mix of tumbled and snakeskin-printed leather accents. 

The Air Jordan 13s released in 1997 were inspired by a black panther, which are represented entirely on the upper. Perforated tumbled leather side panels represent the panther’s whiskers, while a holographic “23” on the heel symbolizes the feline’s eyes. Suede underlays around the heel bring the Air Jordan 13 altogether, delivering both sport and luxury to the classic Air Jordan sneaker. 

Finally, the Air Jordan 14 is probably the most memorable for its role in Michael’s performance during the 1998 NBA Finals against the Utah Jazz. Michael Jordan was able to score a last minute jump shot, giving the Chicago Bulls a one point lead to win their sixth title. Dubbed “The Last Shot”, these Air Jordan 14s also feature black tumbled leather and suede accents with hits of red to represent the Bulls’s famous colors.

Since their initial releases, the Air Jordan 12, 13, and 14 have seen numerous retro treatments, but have all stayed true to their design and heritage. Check out our latest episode of Details, as we hone in on the characteristics described above.