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words // Ian Stonebrook:
Having a signature shoe is an accolade only the most elite and charismatic of athletes can claim. For years, having the latest, greatest model was something to pine for amongst athletes and fans alike, mainly do to innovation perks and the historically cool ‘new’ factor. While the retro wave has created an increased appetite for nostalgia, some fans and some players like going back to their old shoes for comfort and colorway reasons. With Kevin Durant making his hardwood comeback in a signature shoe of yesteryear, we too revisit a history of NBA stars that have gone back to past models of their namesake.
Michael Jordan
Michael Jordan in the Air Jordan 1 1995 Retro Michael Jordan in the Air Jordan 3 “True Blue” & Black/Cement Michael Jordan in the Air Jordan 9 “Cool Grey” (image via Sneaker News) Michael Jordan in the Air Jordan 11 “Cool Grey” (image via Underground Soles)Kicks: Air Jordan 1 White/Red-Black, Air Jordan 3 “True Blue,” Air Jordan 9 “Cool Grey,” & Air Jordan 11 “Cool Grey”
For his last game (as a Bull) in MSG, Mike went back to the Air Jordan 1 merely for nostalgia, surprising fans on TV in the pre-social media era. As a Wizard, the retro wave was finally booming and his signature series was somewhat in flux do to his surprise comeback. A variety of retro releases played well to lowkey promo for the retro line while meshing well with his D.C. threads.
