Air Jordan 7 history and background.
Even though the Air Jordan 7 is celebrating its 30th anniversary this year, it continues to be one of the most unique Jordan Brand sneakers ever made. Designed by the legendary Tinker Hatfield back in 1992, this was the first Air Jordan to feature an enclosed Air unit. It also boasted a neoprene inner bootie similar to what you'd find on the Air Huarache that Hatfield unveiled one year before. Both of these unique features gave the AJ 7 a unique "floating" aesthetic and a snug sock-like fit that was more dynamic and versatile compared to Michael Jordan's previous six silhouettes. Of course, you can't talk about the Jordan 7 without mentioning the fact that, unlike others model before it, you won't find any sort of Nike branding around it. This was done deliberately by Tinker, as he thought that His Airness' line could grow on its own without being continuously associated with Nike all the time. This bold decision proved beyond worthwhile as MJ's seventh shoe helped propel Jordan Brand to become the cultural and sports icon that it is today.
The first colorways were inspired by the Afropop art movement. With vibrant palettes and geometric patterns, the Air Jordan 7 is also renowned for the legendary shield-like 23 logo around the heel which nods to Michael's signature jersey number. Since it was introduced three decades ago, Nike has released thousands of must-have colorways and hundreds of unmissable collaborations. There have also been various styles as well. From the ultra-adaptable Air Jordan 7 Low to the lifestyle-focused Air Jordan 7 LS, there's literally a model for everyone no matter your personal sense of style.
Whether you're a hardcore Air Jordan 7 collector or you're searching for your very first pair, you're in luck, as the Sole Retriever Air Jordan 7 Buyers Guide is here to answer all of your questions about the AJ 7. What are some of the best colorways? What are they made of? How do they fit? What do they cost? You'll find out everything you need to know, and more, right here.
Did Michael Jordan wear the Air Jordan 7?
Michael Jordan proudly wore the Air Jordan 7 on his feet during 1992 NBA All-Star Game. With the world-famous "Bordeaux," he led the Chicago Bulls to its second NBA championship. Several months later, MJ also wore the "Olympics" when Team USA won gold during the 1992 Summer Olympics in Barcelona. Aptly dubbed the Dream Team, the squad also starred Magic Johnson, Larry Bird, David Robinson, Patrick Ewing, Karl Malone, Charles Barkley, John Stockton, Christian Laettner, Clyde Drexler, Chris Mullin, and of course, the one and only Scottie Pippen.
To celebrate the Jordan 7's 10th anniversary in 2002, the Black Cat brought the AJ 7 back in the original "Raptor" color scheme. On top of that, he also introduced a new "French Blue" flavor, which, during his brief stint with the Washington Wizards, he actually rocked religiously throughout the season.
What are the best Air Jordan 7 colorways?
Without a doubt, the Air Jordan 7 will always be one of the most legendary sneakers in history. Fortunately, we have already ranked the top 10 Air Jordan 7's of all time. That said, we will cover off on some of the most iconic Air Jordan 7's starting with 2022's Trophy Room x Air Jordan 7 "New Sheriff In Town." Made in partnership with the GOAT's son, Marcus Jordan, this special edition pair celebrates the silhouette's 30th birthday and comes with MJ's signature at the heel and luxe gold hardware. Other collabs worth mentioning include Bephie’s Beauty Supply which came in "Sanddrift" and "Seafoam," and Patta which dropped in "Icicle" and "Shimmer," the latter of which is regarded by many sneakerheads to be the holiest of grails.
In terms of none-collaborative Jordan 7s, the "Citrus" and "Flint" are hands down some of the most sought-after sneakers in recent years. You also can't talk about the best colorways without mentioning the "Hare." Spotted on the feet of Bugs Bunny during that legendary Super Bowl commercial, which would later turn into the classic film Space Jam, this kickstarted the Hare Jordan legacy that we continue to talk about even today. Keeping up-to-date with all of these colorways can be overwhelming especially if you're new to sneakers, so make sure you follow Sole Retriever over on Twitter and download our official Mobile App if you haven't already.
What material is the Air Jordan 7 made of?
The Air Jordan 7 was originally made from leather, but over the years Nike has been experimenting with a vast range of different materials. Pairs like the "Cardinal" are still made from leather, but you'll also get the "Ray Allen Bucks" that opts for supple suede and the "Neutral Grey" that's equipped with soft pony hair. 2021's "Paris Saint-Germain" collaboration received mesh paneling across the lateral and medial sides, and a similar finish hit 2022's "Sapphire" colorway.
How does the Air Jordan 7 fit?
Generally speaking, the Air Jordan 7 fits true to size. However, if your feet are a little on the wider side then feel free to go half a size up, but we would always recommend just going TTS. It's always best to try on a pair in-store before purchasing to be sure you’re getting the correct size.
How much do Air Jordan 7s cost?
When the Air Jordan 7 first released in 1992 it retailed for $125, but things are a little different nowadays. The Air Jordan 7 Low like the "Taxi" can start from $140, while others like the "Year Of The Rabbit" begin around $160. Colorways such as the "Black Patent" and "Pantone" cost $190, but retail prices are known to reach above the $200 mark, for instance, on the "Afrobeats" and "Greater China." For your best chance to cop the AJ 7 at retail, follow us over on Twitter and download our Mobile App today.
Where do I buy Air Jordan 7s?
If you're looking to get the Air Jordan 7 for your collection, you're in luck, as most general releases can be bought on release day via Nike, the SNKRS app, and select Jordan Brand retailers worldwide, from chain stores, to boutiques, to mom and pop stores. With that said, special collaborations like the aforementioned Trophy Room and limited editions such as the "Doernbecher" and "For the Love of the Game" will be much harder to come by. While hype surrounding His Airness' seventh signature shoe certainly isn't as high when compared to the Air Jordan 1 and the Air Jordan 4, it's still pretty popular especially on its 30th birthday. If you still don't have a pair in your daily rotation, we’ve got you covered through our Twitter and Mobile App where we’ll alert you on upcoming releases, raffles, and so much more.
What’s the hot take?
There's no hiding the fact that the Air Jordan 7 will always be one of the most iconic sneakers of all time. First introduced back in 1992, it's still considered by many sneakerheads to be one of the most sought-after silhouettes even after 30 years. Designed by Tinker Hatfield, this basketball shoe helped Team USA win gold during the Olympics, and since then, it has become available in a vast selection of colorways and styles. For your best chance to cop, make sure you keep it locked to our Twitter and download the Sole Retriever Mobile App. We'll be sure to keep you updated with the latest news, release info, and raffle details for the Air Jordan 7 and more in the sneaker and streetwear world!
