This year’s annual holiday Air Jordan 11 release will see the return of a colorway that’s been in the reserves for a decade.
The Air Jordan 11 “Columbia Blue” brings back the sneaker worn by Michael Jordan at the 1996 NBA All-Star Game. Last released in 2014 with the moniker “Legends Blue,” the predominantly white sneaker features sky blue accents to match Jordan’s alma matter, the University of North Carolina. The namesake hue is used for the Jumpman logo, tongue webbing and outsole, as well as the carbon fiber plate that can be seen underneath. Black then forms the sockliner and mustache.
The 1996 All-Star Game marked Jordan’s first since returning from retirement, and the “Columbia Blue” accents nearly matched the famous teal uniforms worn for the game. Prior to 2014, the Air Jordan 11 “Columbia Blue” and only been rereleased one other time in 2001.
Jordan Brand has been releasing Air Jordan 11s each holiday season since 2009, when the tradition began with the much-heralded return of the “Space Jam” colorway. The model is widely considered one of the best, if not the best, Air Jordan sneakers because of its singular design featuring patent leather, which had never been used before in a basketball shoe. Even Jordan himself considers it his favorite, and designer Tinker Hatfield has also singled it out as the “most remarkable” sneaker from the line.
The Air Jordan 11 “Columbia Blue” will release December 14 through the Snkrs app and select third-party retailers. Pricing is set at $230.
Ian Servantes is a Senior News Editor for Footwear News specializing in sneaker coverage. He’s previously reported on streetwear and sneakers at Input and Highsnobiety after beginning his career on the pop culture beat. He subscribes to the idea that “ball is life” and doesn’t fuss over his kicks getting dirty.
