Air Jordan 9 Release Dates
Originally released in 1994, the Air Jordan 9 was the first Air Jordan signature sneaker released after Michael Jordan’s first retirement from professional basketball. Designed by Tinker Hatfield, the AJ 9 drew inspiration from MJ’s global recognition as one of the most famous people on earth.
In 1994 the Air Jordan 9 made its debut. However, the sneaker did not debut on the hardwood via the feet of Michael Jordan. Instead, it was seen on his feet, modified for baseball. Of course, the AJ 9 still made its way onto the basketball court. Players like Penny Hardaway, Mitch Richmond, Kendall Gill, and BJ Armstrong rocked the ninth silhouette from the Air Jordan line in the NBA. In the early 00s, the PE trend continued with numerous players getting exclusive colorways, such as Mike Bibby, Darius Miles, Quentin Richardson, and Kobe Bryant. While it may represent an off-year for Michael Jordan, the Air Jordan 9 still holds a place in the hearts of sneakerheads due to its clean look and on-foot style.
The Air Jordan 9 was initially released in four colorways: White Black True Red, Olive, Charcoal, and Powder Blue. The AJ 9 was the first Air Jordan signature sneaker not worn on-court by Michael Jordan. However, he wore a player-exclusive cleat while attempting a new career in professional baseball. Outside of lacing up a pair in the 1996 film Space Jam, it wasn’t until 2002 that Michael Jordan finally got to wear the Air Jordan 9 in a basketball game as a member of the Washington Wizards.
Since 2002, we have seen the Air Jordan 9 Retro in various OG and new colorways, which we still see today. Collaborators, including the OHSU Doernbecher Children’s Hospital have all been fortunate enough to design their own exclusive AJ 9. Some of them made it to retail, while others did not. Some new colorways have even ranked up there next to the OG’s, such as the Bin23, Kobe, MOP Melo, and Alter Egos Pack. Almost thirty years later, the AJ 9 is still as iconic as ever.
Originally retailing for $125, the Air Jordan 9's retail price has increased through the years and now has a sticker price of $200 for men, $150 for GS, $90 for PS, and $75 for TD. Retail also increases depending on the colorway/release, occasionally up to $275. Find all the Jordan 9's past and present on Sole Retriever today!
