Nike is set to captivate fans once again with the release of the Air Jordan 11 “Gratitude” retro. This special edition pays homage to Michael Jordan's iconic “Concord” pair from 1995, promising sneakerheads a unique and nostalgic experience. As the December 2023 release date approaches, let's delve into the rich history of the Air Jordan 11 series and uncover the story behind the legendary "Concord."
For over a decade, Team Jumpman has made it a tradition to gift fans a new iteration of Michael Jordan's patent leather-covered sneaker every holiday season. The journey began with the groundbreaking release of the Air Jordan 11 “Concord” on November 10th, 1995. However, the saga of this iconic sneaker started months before, with a momentous preview by none other than "His Airness" himself.
In March of 1995, Michael Jordan made a triumphant return to the Chicago Bulls after an 18-month hiatus from the NBA. During this time, legendary sneaker designer Tinker Hatfield presented the 32-year-old basketball phenom with a sample version of his latest creation, the Air Jordan 11. The revelation took place ahead of the 1994-95 NBA Playoffs, setting the stage for a historic moment in sneaker history.
Against Hatfield's cautious advice that the pair wasn't quite ready for action, Jordan, now sporting the number 45 jersey, decided to lace up the Air Jordan 11 “Concord” for a game against the Orlando Magic. Unfortunately, the color scheme ("White/Black/Dark Concord") did not comply with the league's regulations, limiting the sneaker's court time to just two games. Despite its brief appearance, the Air Jordan 11 would make a triumphant return during the 1995-96 season, becoming a pivotal part of Jordan's journey to securing his fourth NBA title.
Fast forward to 2023, and Nike, is set to release the Air Jordan 11 “Gratitude” retro, a special edition that pays homage to the iconic "Concord" pair. As we eagerly anticipate the December drop, the sneaker community is buzzing with excitement, eager to get their hands on this unique piece of sneaker history.
The Air Jordan 11 “Gratitude” retro promises to blend the classic design elements of the original with contemporary flair, creating a must-have for collectors and fans alike. From its patent leather construction to the unmistakable color scheme, this release is poised to reignite the nostalgia of the 1995 classic while offering a fresh perspective for a new generation of sneaker enthusiasts.
Departing from the traditional ballistic mesh, the “Gratitude” opts for a touch of luxury with a premium leather upper. The signature patent leather, reminiscent of a sophisticated tuxedo, maintains its glossy “Black” allure, while subtle yet impactful “Metallic Gold” accents grace the branding throughout the shoe. The midsoles, embodying simplicity, introduce a milky hue on the traction, adding a tasteful touch to the celebratory design. Embracing its distinctive name, the “Gratitude” retro holds a unique message underneath the tongue, stating, “Quality Basketball Product Created In Gratitude By The Greatest Player Ever,” a departure from the standard wording found on other Jordan 11s. To complete the immersive experience, the sneakers are delicately wrapped in tissue paper expressing "Thank You" in various languages, solidifying the theme of appreciation woven into every detail of this exceptional release.
The Air Jordan 11 “Gratitude” is set to release this weekend of December the 9th.
