SOLE COLLECTOR: Sneakers

Jordan VIII

The Air Jordan VIII was a shoe that released in 1993 and, to this day, looks like a shoe that was released in 1993. The loud patterns, the “carpet logo,” the almost overly technical looking straps – the Air Jordan VIII perfectly captured the essence of the era. Aside from its bold design, the VIII may be most fondly remembered for being on the feet of MJ as he completed the Bulls’ first of two three-peats of NBA titles.

The design of the VIII was a striking contrast to the VII, both designed by Tinker Hatfield. Gone was the minimalist approach of the Huarache concept employed by the VII, and in was the more-is-more approach as used by the VIII. The higher cut aimed to provide the ankle support that was largely absent in the VII, and the criss-crossing straps provided a new level of lockdown in an Air Jordan. One remaining carry-over feature from the VII was the inner bootie, which provided a supreme level of comfort. Encapsulated Air units in the heel and forefoot provided the cushioning, which, like the VII, was no longer visible.

Initial colorway offerings included the White/Black/True Red and Black/Black/True Red. These colorways were worn throughout the season, but the All-Star Game inspired something a little flashier. The Black/Bright Concord/Aqua Tone colorway was worn by MJ as he came close to meeting his season scoring average of 32.6 by knocking down 30 points in the game. It was a fitting shoe to go along with his stellar performance.

The first round of Retro 8s came in 2003 with the White/Black/True Red and Black/Chrome colorways. While not quite originals, fans appreciated the simple color schemes. Two low-top versions, the White/Metallic Silver and Black/True Red/Del Sol colorways also released in ’03 – the latter of which closely resembled the original Black/Black/True Red original version in terms of colorway. The next Retro 8s would release in 2007. Along with an array of lifestyle-themed colorways, VIII fans were finally treated to re-releases of the original Aquas and Black/Black/True Reds. Easily the most popular of the original colorways, these ’07 reproductions quickly moved from store shelves.

The Air Jordan VIII has maintained somewhat of a love/hate relationship with fans. While some write it off for its excesses, others champion it for those exact same reasons. And while maybe not the most beloved shoe in the line, as evidenced by the response to its recent retroing, it still maintains a solid fanbase.