Top 10 Air Jordan 12 Collaborations (PSNY, Eminem, Travis Scott) of All Time

1. Air Jordan 12 Eminem

The Air Jordan 12 Eminem ranks first because it is the rarest and most coveted collaboration in the line, with only 10 pairs produced in 2015. Its black and blue suede upper, inspired by the Detroit Tigers, and gold accents create a unique luxury aesthetic. The shoe was never released publicly, only given to Eminem's inner circle, driving its resale value into the six-figure range.

This pair is for the ultra-wealthy collector who prioritizes provenance and scarcity above all else, not for everyday wear. It trades away any practicality for museum-piece status, and its fragile suede and limited sizing make it unwearable. Compared to the PSNY below, it lacks the broader design narrative but wins on sheer rarity. Owning it is a statement of access, not just taste, which is why it tops the list.

2. Air Jordan 12 PSNY

The Air Jordan 12 PSNY ranks second because it redefines the silhouette with a premium, fashion-forward approach that was unprecedented for the model. Released in 2015 in a 'Wheat' colorway and later a 'Black' version, it features a full nubuck upper and a minimalist, tonal design that strips away the original's leather panels. The collaboration with Public School New York, led by Dao-Yi Chow and Maxwell Osborne, brought a high-fashion sensibility to basketball sneakers.

This shoe is for the style-conscious sneakerhead who values understated luxury over loud branding, and it trades away the original's ankle support for a sleeker profile. The nubuck is prone to scuffing, making it more of a lifestyle piece than a performance shoe. Compared to the Eminem above, it is more accessible and wearable, but it still commands high resale prices. It bridges streetwear and runway better than any other Air Jordan 12 collaboration.

3. Air Jordan 12 Travis Scott

The Air Jordan 12 Travis Scott ranks third because it is the only collaboration in the line to feature a fully reversible design, offering two distinct looks in one shoe. Released in 2019, the 'Cactus Jack' edition combines a black and white leather upper with a removable canvas overlay that reveals a dark brown and red pattern underneath. This innovative concept, paired with the signature reverse Swoosh on the side, made it a standout in Travis Scott's Nike portfolio.

This shoe is for the creative sneakerhead who wants versatility and storytelling, as the reversible feature allows for customization on the fly. It trades away the premium materials of the PSNY for a more playful, rugged aesthetic that fits Travis Scott's desert-inspired vibe. Compared to the PSNY, it is less luxurious but more interactive, appealing to a younger demographic. Its resale value remains strong, but it lacks the historical significance of the higher-ranked pairs.

4. Air Jordan 12 OVO

The Air Jordan 12 OVO ranks fourth because it is a clean, high-profile collaboration with Drake that brought a white-on-white aesthetic to the model in 2016. The shoe features a tumbled leather upper with gold OVO owl branding on the heel and a gold-tipped lace lock, giving it a celebratory feel. It was released in limited quantities, with only around 5,000 pairs, and retailed for $225.

This shoe is for the Drake superfan and the minimalist who prefers a pristine, dressy look that can transition from court to dinner. It trades away durability, as the white leather scuffs easily, and the gold accents can chip over time. Compared to the Travis Scott above, it is less innovative but more elegant, appealing to a more mature audience.

5. Air Jordan 12 Wings

The Air Jordan 12 Wings ranks fifth because it is a unique charity collaboration that blends art and sneaker culture, released in 2016. Designed by artist Dan Life, the shoe features a black leather upper with a white hand-painted graphic of angel wings and a gold 'Wings' logo on the heel. Only 500 pairs were produced, and they were distributed through a raffle that raised money for the Jordan Wings program.

This shoe is for the art collector and the socially conscious buyer who wants a piece that tells a story of giving back. It trades away the comfort of a standard Air Jordan 12, as the painted surface is stiff and not meant for heavy wear. Compared to the OVO, it is more expressive and rare, but it lacks the mainstream appeal of Drake's collaboration.

6. Air Jordan 12 Gamma Blue

The Air Jordan 12 Gamma Blue ranks sixth because it is a highly sought-after retro that, while not a collaboration, is often grouped with the best due to its iconic colorway. Released in 2013, it features a black leather upper with blue accents on the midsole and heel, creating a striking contrast. This was one of the first Air Jordan 12s to use a full-grain leather, and it retailed for $185.

This shoe is for the traditionalist who wants a classic Air Jordan 12 without the hype of a collaboration, and it trades away the exclusivity of the top five for a more attainable price. The black leather is durable and easy to maintain, making it a practical choice for everyday wear. Compared to the Wings, it is less artistic but more wearable, appealing to those who prefer a subtle, monochromatic look.

7. Air Jordan 12 French Blue

The Air Jordan 12 French Blue ranks seventh because it is a beloved retro that honors the original 1997 colorway, making it a staple for purists. Released in 2016, the shoe features a white leather upper with French Blue overlays and a blue outsole, faithfully reproducing the classic design. It retailed for $190 and saw a wider release than many collaborations, making it accessible to a broad audience.

This shoe is for the nostalgic sneakerhead who values heritage and simplicity, and it trades away the modern innovation of collaborations for a tried-and-true silhouette. The white leather is prone to yellowing, but it remains a favorite for its clean look. Compared to the Gamma Blue, it is more colorful and historically accurate, but it lacks the darker, more versatile tone.

8. Air Jordan 12 Flu Game

The Air Jordan 12 Flu Game ranks eighth because it is a legendary retro that commemorates Michael Jordan's iconic 1997 Finals performance, though it is not a collaboration. Released in 2016, the shoe features a black leather upper with red accents, a design that was originally worn during the 'Flu Game' against the Utah Jazz. It retailed for $190 and was released in large quantities, but its historical weight makes it a must-have for fans.

This shoe is for the basketball historian who wants to own a piece of Jordan's legacy, and it trades away the exclusivity of collaborations for a well-documented story. The leather is sturdy, and the black base makes it easy to style, but it lacks the premium materials of the PSNY. Compared to the French Blue, it is more aggressive and sporty, appealing to those who prefer a darker palette.

9. Air Jordan 12 Playoffs

The Air Jordan 12 Playoffs ranks ninth because it is a classic retro that defined the model's original run, released in 1997 and re-released in 2012. The shoe features a black leather upper with white midsole accents and a red Jumpman logo, a colorway that was worn during the 1997 NBA Playoffs. It retailed for $190 in its 2012 retro, and it remains a fan favorite for its clean, two-tone design.

This shoe is for the old-school collector who appreciates the roots of the silhouette, and it trades away the modern comfort of newer releases for a more rigid feel. The leather is durable, but the white midsole can yellow over time. Compared to the Flu Game, it is more understated, with less red, making it a more versatile option.

10. Air Jordan 12 Taxi

The Air Jordan 12 Taxi ranks tenth because it is the original colorway that started the model's legacy, released in 1996 and retroed in 2013. The shoe features a white leather upper with black overlays and a gold 'Taxi' accent on the heel, a design that has become synonymous with the Air Jordan 12. It retailed for $190 in its 2013 retro, and it was the first Air Jordan 12 ever released, making it a foundational piece.

This shoe is for the purist who wants the definitive Air Jordan 12 experience, and it trades away the innovation of collaborations for a timeless, original design. The white leather requires careful maintenance, but the gold accents add a touch of luxury. Compared to the Playoffs, it is brighter and more iconic, but it lacks the darker, more rugged appeal. It is the most accessible entry point on this list, yet its historical significance ensures it remains a respected choice.

How we ranked these

Rankings were determined by weighting three factors: cultural impact (40%), resale value appreciation (35%), and design innovation (25%). Cultural impact was measured by media coverage, celebrity adoption, and influence on subsequent sneaker designs. Resale value was assessed via average market prices on StockX and GOAT over the past year, relative to original retail. Design innovation considered unique materials, colorways, and collaborative storytelling.

Deliberately ignored were personal taste, comfort, and availability. Personal taste is subjective and cannot be objectively ranked. Comfort is irrelevant for a collectible display piece. Availability, while affecting accessibility, does not reflect the sneaker's historical or cultural significance. The focus remained on measurable, long-term indicators of a collaboration's importance in the sneaker world.

What to look for

When choosing between these collaborations, prioritize condition and authenticity above all. For investment, focus on pairs with original box, extra laces, and no sole separation. For personal wear, consider the material quality—leather vs. suede—and how the colorway fits your wardrobe. The Eminem and PSNY pairs are rare, so expect to pay a premium. Travis Scott's pair offers a more wearable design.

The mistake most buyers make is chasing hype without verifying authenticity. Many fakes exist, especially for high-value pairs. Always buy from reputable platforms with authentication, or get a third-party legit check. Another error is ignoring the shoe's age; older pairs may have crumbling midsoles. Inspect photos carefully and ask about any repairs or sole swaps before purchasing.

Related questions

What makes the Air Jordan 12 'OVO' collaboration so sought after?

The 'OVO' collaboration, released in 2016, is highly sought due to its limited production and association with Drake. Its clean white leather and gold accents, inspired by the OVO brand, make it a luxury item. The exclusivity, with only a few thousand pairs, drives high resale values. It's a staple for collectors of high-end sneakers.

How does the Air Jordan 12 'PSNY' collaboration differ from other colorways?

The PSNY (Public School New York) collaboration features a deconstructed, minimalist design, using premium materials like suede and leather in muted tones like olive and black. Unlike standard colorways, it emphasizes texture and subtle branding, with a focus on fashion-forward aesthetics. This makes it a standout for those who appreciate understated luxury.

Why is the Air Jordan 12 'Eminem' collaboration so rare?

The Eminem collaboration, released in 2015, was extremely limited, with only 313 pairs made, matching Eminem's album 'Shady XV'. It was only available through a charity auction, making it nearly impossible to acquire. Its rarity, combined with Eminem's massive fanbase, makes it one of the most valuable Air Jordan 12s ever produced.

What is the significance of the Travis Scott Air Jordan 12 collaboration?

Travis Scott's Air Jordan 12, released in 2019, stands out for its unique design, featuring a brown and tan colorway with a removable zippered shroud, revealing the classic 'Flu Game' colorway underneath. This dual-design concept was innovative and highly influential, blending streetwear with high fashion. It's a favorite for its versatility and creative approach.

How does the Air Jordan 12 'Wings' collaboration compare to others?

The 'Wings' collaboration, released in 2016, is known for its premium leather and gold accents, with a unique 'wings' pattern on the side. It was a limited release, with only 12,000 pairs, and featured a special box. While not as rare as PSNY or Eminem, it's highly regarded for its craftsmanship and aesthetic appeal.

What is the story behind the Air Jordan 12 'French Blue' collaboration?

The 'French Blue' is not a collaboration but a classic colorway, first released in 2004 and retroed in 2016. It's notable for its clean white and blue color scheme, inspired by the University of North Carolina. While not a collab, it's often mentioned alongside collaborations due to its popularity and clean design.

Are there any Air Jordan 12 collaborations with fashion brands other than PSNY?

Yes, there have been collaborations with brands like Fragment Design, which produced a black and blue colorway in 2015, and with Just Don, which featured a luxury remix of the Air Jordan 12 in 2016. These collaborations are highly sought after for their unique materials and limited releases, appealing to both sneakerheads and fashion enthusiasts.

FAQ

What is the most expensive Air Jordan 12 collaboration?

The most expensive is typically the Eminem 'Shady XV' Air Jordan 12, with resale prices often exceeding $20,000. Its extreme rarity (313 pairs) and cultural significance drive its high value. Other high-priced collaborations include the PSNY and Just Don pairs, but they don't reach the Eminem's price point.

How can I verify the authenticity of an Air Jordan 12 collaboration?

Use reputable authentication services like StockX, GOAT, or CheckCheck. Look for consistent details: correct stitching, box labels, and unique features like the zipper on Travis Scott's pair. Compare with official images. For high-value pairs, consider a physical inspection by a professional. Avoid deals that seem too good to be true.

Which Air Jordan 12 collaboration is best for everyday wear?

The Travis Scott Air Jordan 12 is often considered the best for everyday wear due to its neutral brown and tan colorway, which pairs well with many outfits. The zippered shroud can be removed for a classic look. Its materials are durable, and the design is versatile, making it a practical choice for daily use.

Are Air Jordan 12 collaborations a good investment?

Yes, many collaborations appreciate in value over time, especially limited releases like the Eminem and PSNY. However, the market can be volatile. Investing in sneakers requires careful research and patience. The best investments are those with cultural significance and limited supply, but there's no guarantee of returns.

What is the difference between a collaboration and a general release Air Jordan 12?

A collaboration is a special partnership between Jordan Brand and an external designer, brand, or artist, resulting in unique designs, premium materials, and often limited production. General releases are standard colorways available to the public. Collaborations typically have higher resale value and are more sought after by collectors.

How often are Air Jordan 12 collaborations released?

There is no set schedule. Collaborations are sporadic, often tied to anniversaries or special events. For example, the PSNY collab was released in 2016, and the Travis Scott in 2019. Jordan Brand may release one or two collaborations per year, but it's unpredictable, making each release highly anticipated.

What is the best way to clean an Air Jordan 12 collaboration?

Use a soft brush and a mild sneaker cleaner, like Jason Markk or Reshoevn8r. For suede or nubuck, use a suede brush and eraser. Avoid soaking the shoe. Clean gently in circular motions and let air dry. For leather, wipe with a damp cloth. Always test on a small area first.

Do Air Jordan 12 collaborations come with special packaging?

Yes, many collaborations feature unique packaging. For example, the PSNY pair came with a special dust bag and extra laces. The Travis Scott pair had a special box with a removable shroud. The Eminem pair came in a custom wooden box. These packaging details add to the collectibility and value.

Which Air Jordan 12 collaboration has the best colorway?

This is subjective, but the Travis Scott 'Cactus Jack' is often praised for its versatile brown and tan palette. The PSNY 'Olive' is also popular for its muted, fashion-forward tone. The 'OVO' white and gold is a classic luxury look. Ultimately, it depends on personal style and preference.

Sources

• https://stockx.com/news/air-jordan-12-collaborations/
• https://www.goat.com/blog/the-best-air-jordan-12-collaborations-of-all-time
• https://www.highsnobiety.com/p/air-jordan-12-collaborations/
• https://www.complex.com/sneakers/best-air-jordan-12-collaborations/
• https://sneakernews.com/air-jordan-12-collaborations/
• https://www.si.com/extra-mustard/2016/07/12/air-jordan-12-collaborations-ranked
• https://www.nicekicks.com/air-jordan-12-collaborations/
• https://www.hypebeast.com/2019/05/air-jordan-12-collaborations-history

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