1996-1997

The Air Jordan 12 was originally released from 1996-1997 and retailed for $140. Five different color ways were originally produced of the XII. The 12 got a retro release for the first time in 2003. Some of Michael Jordan’s most memorable career moments happened while wearing the Air Jordan 12. Including his game winning shot in Game 1 of the NBA Finals and his 39 point performance in the championship clinching Game 6 victory. Michael Jordan also wore the Jordan 12 during the iconic, Flu Game. Michael Jordan and his Chicago Bulls won their fifth title in 1997. The 1996-1997 campaign for the Bulls was a dominate one. The Bulls finished with an incredible 69-13 record, which was a league best that season. Michael Jordan averaged 29.6 points per game in the 96-97 season. The Chicago Bulls beat the Utah Jazz 4-2 in the NBA Finals. Michael Jordan took home Finals MVP, his fifth Finals MVP award.

Michael Jordan's 'Flu Game'

The Design

The XII had a Zoom Air Unit, which was a first for a Jordan sneaker. It has a modified herringbone pattern for improved traction and an improved carbon fiber shank plate. The 12 is one of the most durable Air Jordan shoes ever made. It has a red Jumpman logo on the tongue. The lacing eyelets are metal. The 12 features various branded elements. Jumpman logos are debossed onto the metallic silver lace stays near the collar. “TWO 3” is embroidered on the throat. Jordan banners run down the spine and the Jumpman adorned tabs. Tinker Hatfield, who designed some of the most beloved Air Jordan sneakers, created the Jordan 12. The look of the shoe was reportedly based on a women’s fashion shoe and Japanese flag.

The Jordan 12 At Shoe Palace

You can find a wide selection of Jordan Brand products at Shoe Palace retail locations and shoepalace.com, including the recent Air Jordan 12 Retro 'Stealth'.

- Adam C. Better