There's no doubt that Air Jordans are the most popular sneakers amongst sneakerheads. For some it may be the aesthetic appeal, for others it may be the nostalgic feeling of memories watching Michael Jordan as a kid, but for everyone, that swagger of a ball player that Jay-Z talks about, is the feeling you get when you lace up a pair of Air Jordans. While most of MJ's defining moments have been celebrated with special colorways, we decided to celebrate them in our own way with Michael Jordan's 25 Most Defining Sneaker Moments in GIFs. Let us know what your favorite moment is in the comments section below.
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Air Jordan IV "Black/Red/Cement"
Release Date: 1991
The Pistons were notorious for trying to rough up MJ but most of the time it resulted in unbelievable "and one" buckets like this breakaway in the Air Jordan IV.
Air Jordan XIII "Black/Red"
Release Date: 1997
Teaching your favorite player how to shoot a turnaround jumper.
Air Jordan VII "Raptors"
Release Date: 1992
Don't let me get in my zone.
Air Jordan XIV "Last Shot"
Release Date: 1999
What push?
Nike Air Ship "White/Red"
Release Date: 1984
It's gotta be the shoes right? Well, not if you're MJ.
Air Jordan X "White/Black/Red"
Release Date: 1995
MJ may have been wearing the 4-5 jersey but that 55 points at Madison Square Garden after returning from retirement was classic 23.
Air Jordan II "White/Black/Red"
Release Date: 1986
AIr Jordan V "White/Varsity Red"
Release Date: 1990
MJ's ability to maneuver in the air was unbelievable. The up and under was a signature move that everyone saw coming but nobody could stop.
Air Jordan XII "Playoffs"
Release Date: 1997
Sorry, Dikembe.
Air Jordan XI "Black/Red"
Release Date: 1995
72-10, ya bish.
Air Jordan IV "Black/Red"
Release Date: 1989
Some things never get old. Unless of course your name begins with Craig and ends with Ehlo.
Air Jordan VI "Black/Infrared"
Release Date: 1991
"Oh, what a move by Jordan!" - Marv Albert
Air Jordan XII "White/Red"
Release Date: 1997
Bobby Sura was never seen again.
AIr Jordan VII "Cardinals"
Release Date: 1992
Air Jordan V "Fire Red"
Release Date: 1990
Tongue out, rock the cradle, RIP Seattle Sonics.
Air Jordan VIII "Black/Red"
Release Date: 1993
55 points on Sir Charles and the Suns on the way to another title in the Air Jordan VIII. Danny Ainge was on the receiving end of so many highlight reel moments for MJ, he probably still has nightmares.
Air Jordan XVIII "White/Blue"
Release Date: 2004
Money, all the way until the end. Those XVIIIs are underrated.
Air Jordan I "White/Red/Black"
Release Date: 1985
63 points on Larry Bird and the Celtics, you're welcome, Boston.
Air Jordan III "White/Cement"
Release Date: 1988
Most iconic sneaker moment of all time.
Converse Pro Leather
Release Date: 2012
Some people are just meant to take the game winning shot at an early age. This reminds us that we need to pick up those upcoming Converse Pro Leathers.
Air Jordan VI "Black/Infrared"
Release Date: 1991
Switching hand mid-air against the Lakers in the NBA Finals was quite possibly one of the most symbolic moments of MJ's career. The Bulls winning their first title with Michael in the black and Infrared VIs was the changing of times as the Lakers '80s dynasty was replaced by the Bulls.
Air Jordan VII "Olympics"
Release Date: 1992
Dream Team approved. Harlem Globe Trotters, too.
Air Jordan X "Chicago"
Release Date: 1995
Mike's departure to baseball left everybody asking for a comeback, but Scottie said it best.
Air Jordan II Low "White/Red"
Release Date: 1986
Even on the rare ocassion that he wore a low-cut version of his signature sneakers, Michael had no problem elevating over any opponent. Not to mention he made NBA legend Chris Mullin look like slacker on D.
Air Jordan I "Black/Red"
Release Date: 1985
3 Chainz!!!