INSPIRATION: When then-rookie basketball player Michael Jordan signed with Nike in 1984, a sneaker head cult worth their colourways began with the subsequent release of the Air Jordan 1. A signature staple of streetwear culture — the “final” Air Jordan XX3 was launched earlier this year — the thumpin’ kicks now boast a range of collectables that can fetch up to $30,000 for the most covetable. Clearly, this finally puts to rest the age-old debate that it wasn’t Jordan’s physical prowess on the court that made him the most famous b-baller in the world, but the shoes he endorsed.

 

Jordan was hesitant to sign with Nike, given its lack of presence in the basketball world and their tired, white-man-jogging brand image. He was also not a fan of the 1s “devilish” red and black design. Coincidently, Ridley Scott’s Legend was released around this time, making us wonder how a one-on-one between Jordan and the Lord of Darkness would turn out. For serious collectors: Sideshow Collectibles (www.sideshowtoy.com) Lord of Darkness Figure, $415.99. Silver Snail Comics (www.silversnail.com, 367 Queen W., 416-593-0889).

The Air Jordan 1 was first sighted during a Bulls and 76ers game in late ’84. That red and black colour scheme was so controversial the NBA even banned it for flouting the “official” white shoe dress code. Stüssy (www.stussy.com) Destiny hoodie, $60. Goodfoot (873 St. Clair W., 647-436-5623, www.getonthegoodfoot.ca). Sneaker Freaker (www.sneakerfreaker.com) Marsfits tee, $38. North Trooper (69 Yorkville, Unit 102, 416-922-1777, www.northtrooper.ca).

 

Jordan ignored the ban, and Nike launched a relentless public campaign celebrating the shoes’ notoriety (Jordan’s Rookie of the Year performance helped as well). The company dutifully paid Jordan’s $5,000 per game fine, and the famous “Jumpman” brand was born. Jordan Count Down Shoe Bag, $159.99. Nike Toronto (361 Queen W., 416-977-8001, www.nike.com/canada).

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