Michael Jordan's 25 Most Defining Sneaker Moments in GIFs

MJ's best in GIFs.

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Complex Original

Image via Complex Original

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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 withĀ Michael Jordan's 25 Most Defining Sneaker Moments in GIFs. Let us know what your favorite moment is in the comments section below.

RELATED: 100 Best Air Jordans of All Time

RELATED: The 25 Most Underrated Air Jordans of All Time

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Air Jordan IV "Black/Red/Cement"

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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"

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Release Date: 1997

Teaching your favorite player how to shoot a turnaround jumper.

Air Jordan VII "Raptors"

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Release Date: 1992

Don't let me get in my zone.Ā 

Air Jordan XIV "Last Shot"

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Release Date: 1999

What push?

Nike Air Ship "White/Red"

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Release Date:Ā 1984

It's gotta be the shoes right? Well, not if you're MJ.

Air Jordan X "White/Black/Red"

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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"

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Release Date: 1986

AIr Jordan V "White/Varsity Red"

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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"

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Release Date:Ā 1997

Sorry, Dikembe.

Air Jordan XI "Black/Red"

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Release Date: 1995

72-10, ya bish.

Air Jordan IV "Black/Red"

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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"

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Release Date: 1991

"Oh, what a move by Jordan!" - Marv Albert

Air Jordan XII "White/Red"

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Release Date: 1997

Bobby Sura was never seen again.

AIr Jordan VII "Cardinals"

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Release Date: 1992

Air Jordan V "Fire Red"

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Release Date: 1990

Tongue out, rock the cradle, RIP Seattle Sonics.

Air Jordan VIII "Black/Red"

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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"

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Release Date: 2004

Money, all the way until the end. Those XVIIIs are underrated.

Air Jordan I "White/Red/Black"

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Release Date: 1985

63 points on Larry Bird and the Celtics, you're welcome, Boston.

Air Jordan III "White/Cement"

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Release Date:Ā 1988

Most iconic sneaker moment of all time.

Converse Pro Leather

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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"

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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 LakersĀ '80s dynasty was replaced by the Bulls.

Air Jordan VII "Olympics"

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Release Date: 1992

Dream Team approved. Harlem Globe Trotters, too.

Air Jordan X "Chicago"

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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"

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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"

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Release Date: 1985

3 Chainz!!!