SOLE COLLECTOR: Sneakers

Jordan XX1

After Tinker’s success with the XX, the reigns were handed over to D’Wayne Edwards for the design of the Air Jordan XXI. Although the pressure was immense for Edwards, he showed that he knew the brand very well by using the latest in technology on the XXI. While the XX was a celebration of the line, the XXI was a confirmation of everything that they stand for. The XXI was about being at the cutting edge of design and technology, while at the same time designing the greatest basketball shoe for the greatest basketball player of all time.

Inspiration for this shoe was derived from the Bentley Continental GT coupé, which fit Michael well, as it displayed elegance and class, as well as power. One of the most noticeable things about the XXI was that the lace cover, or shroud, was not used. The IPS system proved to be a success with the XX, so a version of it was again used with the XXI. The large carbon fiber shank plate and added traction support were two of the most noticeable technologies once you had the shoes on your feet. Instead of coming in a rectangular-shaped box, the box was square in shape and each shoe had its own, upright slot. With the XXI, you could choose which form of Air you would rather play in—either Zoom Air or Encapsulated Air. Two sets of interchangeable heel pods were included with each pair. Being able to choose which cushioning you would play in had never been done before and is another example of Jordan Brand staying at the head of the class.

As for players that wore the shoes, once again the Chicago native Quentin Richardson was wearing Jordan XXIs. The entire team at the University of North Carolina wore them for their tournament run. Mike Bibby, of the Sacramento Kings, wore the low-tops throughout the season. The veteran Eddie Jones, who at that time was with the Memphis Grizzlies, would sport a home or away version of the XXIs on a regular basis. Rip Hamilton of the Detroit Pistons had also joined Team Jordan, which put him in a pair of XXIs as well. Last, but not least, was Ray Allen of the Seattle Supersonics. He did support the traditional home and away versions during the season, but his most remembered pair, which he wore for All-Star weekend, are still talked about: all yellow suede with green accents.

Colorways for the XXI were less in number, but as the saying goes, “less is more.” The traditional Bulls home colorway was first to be released. Then, the Black/Grey/White and White/Metallic Silver/Black followed, giving the consumer his or her own option of a home or away. Jordan Brand also spiced it up a bit when they released a pair in all red suede with black accents.

Edwards proved to be a success, as did the XXI. With the reception it received on the court, it was evident that Edwards’ design was appreciated. The XXI is not as flashy as some of the other models, but it measures up quite well on the basketball court.