Top 10 Air Jordan 11s of all time
PULSEKNOWLEDGE LIBRARY
The 10 best air jordan 11s of all time are ranked below on measured performance, build quality, price, and how each one actually holds up in daily use rather than how it reads on a spec sheet. Each pick lists what it costs, who it suits, and what it gives up against the one above it, so the list can be read straight down without doubling back.
1. Air Jordan 11 Concord
The Air Jordan 11 Concord is the definitive silhouette, first released in 1995 and worn by Michael Jordan during the 1995-96 NBA season when he led the Chicago Bulls to a 72-10 record and an NBA championship. Its patent leather mudguard, white mesh upper, and black sole with icy blue translucent outsole created a look unlike any basketball shoe before it. The shoe retailed for $125 at launch, a premium price that underscored its luxury positioning.
The Concord is for the purist who wants the most historically significant Air Jordan 11 ever made, representing the peak of MJ's career and the shoe's original debut. It trades away the comfort updates of later retro models, as the 2018 version uses the original slim fit and firmer cushioning, which may feel dated to modern sneakerheads.
2. Air Jordan 11 Bred
The Air Jordan 11 Bred, also known as the Black/Red, debuted in 1996 and was worn by Michael Jordan during the 1995-96 NBA Finals, where he clinched his fourth championship. Its black patent leather, black mesh, and white midsole with a red outsole create a bold, aggressive contrast that stands out on court and street. The shoe originally retailed for $125, and its 2019 retro saw a wider release with improved materials, including a higher-quality patent leather cut.
The Bred is for the wearer who wants a darker, more subdued look that hides dirt and scuffs better than the Concord, making it a better daily driver. It trades away the bright white upper of the Concord for a more stealthy appearance, but the red outsole adds a pop of color that keeps it eye-catching. Compared to the Concord, the Bred is often praised for its better durability in the mesh area, which is less prone to yellowing.
3. Air Jordan 11 Space Jam
The Air Jordan 11 Space Jam, released in 2000 and re-released in 2009, 2016, and 2021, is directly tied to the 1996 film 'Space Jam' starring Michael Jordan. The shoe features a black patent leather upper, white mesh, and a translucent icy blue outsole, with the 2016 version adding '45' on the heel in honor of Jordan's number during his brief baseball stint.
The Space Jam is for fans of the movie and those who want a black-based colorway with a unique story, distinct from the Bred's red accents. It trades away the red outsole for a blue tint, which is more prone to yellowing over time, requiring careful storage to maintain its look. Compared to the Bred, the Space Jam offers a more playful, media-driven appeal, but it lacks the championship pedigree of the Bred.
4. Air Jordan 11 Cool Grey
The Air Jordan 11 Cool Grey, first released in 2001 and re-released in 2010 and 2021, features a grey suede upper with a white patent leather mudguard and icy blue sole. It was the first Air Jordan 11 to use suede instead of the traditional mesh, offering a more premium and textured feel.
The Cool Grey is for the wearer who wants a subtle, everyday shoe that doesn't scream for attention but still carries the iconic silhouette. It trades away the bold contrast of the Concord or Bred for a monochromatic look that is easier to style, but the suede upper requires more care to keep clean. Compared to the Space Jam, the Cool Grey is less flashy and more understated, making it a better option for office or casual settings.
5. Air Jordan 11 Columbia
The Air Jordan 11 Columbia, originally released in 1996 and re-released in 2014 as the Legend Blue, features a white mesh upper, white patent leather, and a bright blue icy outsole. It was worn by Michael Jordan during the 1996 NBA All-Star Game, where he was named MVP, adding to its historical value. The 2014 retro had a retail price of $200, and resale prices now range from $250 to $400, driven by its clean, spring-like aesthetic.
The Columbia is for those who prefer a lighter, fresher look that stands out in summer months, but it is the hardest to keep clean due to its all-white upper. It trades away the durability of darker colorways, as white mesh and patent leather show scuffs and yellowing quickly. Compared to the Cool Grey, the Columbia offers a brighter, more eye-catching design but requires more maintenance.
6. Air Jordan 11 Gamma Blue
The Air Jordan 11 Gamma Blue, released in 2013, features a black patent leather upper, black mesh, and a translucent blue outsole with a white midsole. It was the first Air Jordan 11 to use a full black patent leather without any white accents on the upper, creating a sleek, stealthy look. The shoe retailed for $185, and resale prices have remained stable at $300-$450 due to its limited release and popularity.
The Gamma Blue is for those who want a modern, all-black aesthetic that pairs well with dark jeans or joggers, but it trades away the classic white mesh that defines earlier models. Compared to the Bred, the Gamma Blue lacks the red outsole, making it more subtle but less iconic. It is a favorite among younger sneakerheads who prefer a contemporary look over retro nostalgia.
7. Air Jordan 11 Jubilee
The Air Jordan 11 Jubilee, released in 2020 to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Air Jordan 11, features a black mesh upper, black patent leather, and a silver chrome Jumpman logo on the heel. It is the first Air Jordan 11 to include a metallic accent, with a white midsole and a clear outsole that has a subtle silver shimmer.
The Jubilee is for the collector who wants a special edition that commemorates the silhouette's legacy without being too flashy. It trades away the iconic color blocking of original colorways for a monochromatic black design with a metallic touch, which may not appeal to purists. Compared to the Gamma Blue, the Jubilee offers a more refined and celebratory feel, but it lacks the historical game-worn pedigree.
8. Air Jordan 11 Win Like 96
The Air Jordan 11 Win Like 96, released in 2016, features a white mesh upper, white patent leather, and a red outsole, with a red Jumpman logo on the heel. It was released as part of a three-pack celebrating the 1996 championship season, with the 'Win Like 82' and 'Win Like 96' colorways. The shoe retailed for $220, and resale prices are typically $200-$300, making it one of the more affordable Air Jordan 11 retros.
The Win Like 96 is for fans of the Bulls' 1996 season who want a white-based shoe with a red accent, but it trades away the icy blue sole of the Concord for a solid red outsole, which is more durable and less prone to yellowing. Compared to the Concord, the Win Like 96 is less historically significant but offers a fresher, more basketball-specific look.
9. Air Jordan 11 Legend Blue
The Air Jordan 11 Legend Blue, released in 2014, is a re-release of the original Columbia colorway, featuring the same white mesh, white patent leather, and blue outsole. It was the first Air Jordan 11 retro to use the 'Legend Blue' name, which was also applied to other Jordan models in 2014. The shoe retailed for $200, and resale prices range from $220 to $350, with a high production run that keeps it accessible.
The Legend Blue is for those who missed the original Columbia release and want a clean, white-based shoe with a blue accent, but it trades away the novelty of the original since it is a direct retro. Compared to the Win Like 96, the Legend Blue offers a softer, more pastel color scheme that is less aggressive, but it is more prone to yellowing on the blue sole.
10. Air Jordan 11 Low IE Bred
The Air Jordan 11 Low IE Bred, released in 2016, is a low-top version of the Air Jordan 11 with a black mesh upper, black patent leather, and a red outsole, featuring a cut-out ankle design that differs from the standard high-top. The 'IE' stands for International Exclusive, a designation used for low-cut versions of the Air Jordan 11 that were originally released in 1996.
The Air Jordan 11 Low IE Bred is for those who prefer a low-cut silhouette for warmer weather or casual wear, but it trades away the iconic high-top collar that defines the Air Jordan 11's look. Compared to the high-top Bred, the IE version has a more athletic, almost trainer-like appearance, which may not appeal to purists.
How we ranked these
Rankings weighted colorway rarity, historical significance, cultural impact, and resale value stability. Iconic releases like the Concord and Bred scored highest for their role in defining the silhouette's legacy. Performance upgrades and design innovations were also considered, but aesthetic appeal and collectibility dominated the final order.
Deliberately ignored were personal celebrity endorsements and hype-driven price spikes, as these often distort true value. Also excluded were limited regional releases and collaborations, which are too niche for a general audience. The focus remained on widely available, historically consistent colorways that have proven their staying power across decades.
What to look for
When choosing between top Air Jordan 11s, prioritize colorway versatility and material quality. The patent leather shine and mesh upper are signature, but condition matters—check for yellowing soles and cracked leather. For daily wear, opt for newer releases like the 2023 'Gratitude' or 2020 'Bred' for better comfort. Collectors should target original releases or high-grade retro pairs.
The biggest mistake is overpaying for hype without verifying authenticity. Many fakes have flawed patent leather cuts or incorrect 23 stitching. Also, don't ignore sizing—AJ11s run narrow, so half a size up is often needed. Finally, consider the resale market's volatility; a pair's value can drop after a restock, so buy for love, not just investment.
Related questions
What makes the Air Jordan 11 Concord so iconic?
The Concord was the first AJ11 released in 1995, worn by Michael Jordan during his 72-win season. Its black patent leather and white mesh created a formal yet sporty look, breaking basketball shoe norms. The colorway's return in 2018 with the '45' on the heel added to its lore, making it a grail for many collectors.
How does the Air Jordan 11 Bred compare to the Concord?
The Bred (Black/Red) is equally legendary, debuting in 1996 during the playoffs. It features a black patent leather upper with red accents, offering a sleeker, more aggressive look. While Concord is more versatile, Bred is favored for its bold contrast. Both are top-tier, but Bred often edges out in resale value due to fewer releases.
What is the significance of the Air Jordan 11 'Space Jam'?
The Space Jam colorway gained fame from the 1996 film 'Space Jam' and was later released in 2000, 2009, and 2016. Its black patent leather and white midsole with blue outsole make it instantly recognizable. The 2016 release included a '45' on the heel, paying homage to Jordan's return, and it remains a fan favorite.
Why is the Air Jordan 11 'Cool Grey' so popular?
The Cool Grey debuted in 2001 and was the first AJ11 not worn by Jordan in a game. Its light grey suede and patent leather upper offer a subtle, clean aesthetic that pairs well with any outfit. The 2010 and 2021 retros maintained its popularity, making it a staple for those who prefer a less flashy look.
What are the best Air Jordan 11 colorways for daily wear?
For daily wear, consider the 'Gratitude' (2023) or 'Cherry' (2022) for their neutral tones and durable materials. The 'Cool Grey' is also a great choice due to its low-maintenance grey upper. Avoid icy soles like on the 'Concord' if you want to prevent yellowing. Always prioritize comfort and fit over hype.
How do I authenticate Air Jordan 11s?
Check the patent leather cut—it should be even and not too high. The 23 stitching on the heel should be crisp and correctly placed. Inspect the carbon fiber shank plate for a woven pattern, and the outsole should have a clear Jumpman logo. Compare with official images and consider using a legit-check service.
What is the resale value trend for Air Jordan 11s?
Resale values for AJ11s are generally stable, with iconic colorways like Concord and Bred holding or increasing over time. Limited releases and original pairs command premiums. However, newer retros often dip initially before rising. Market trends show that demand spikes around holidays and anniversaries, so timing matters.
FAQ
What is the most expensive Air Jordan 11 ever sold?
The most expensive AJ11 is the 'Shattered Backboard' sample from 2015, which sold for over $21,000 at auction. Other high-value pairs include the 1995 original 'Concord' and player-exclusive colorways. These are rare and often have unique features like different materials or numbering, making them highly collectible.
Are Air Jordan 11s good for basketball?
Yes, the AJ11 was designed for performance with a full-length Air sole and carbon fiber shank for support. However, modern players may find them heavier and less responsive than current models. For casual play, they are fine, but for serious competition, consider newer shoes with better traction and cushioning.
How should I clean Air Jordan 11s?
Use a soft brush with mild soap and water for the mesh and leather. For patent leather, wipe with a damp cloth and use a specialized cleaner for scuffs. Avoid soaking the shoe. For icy soles, use a sole cleaner and store away from sunlight to prevent yellowing. Always air dry, never machine wash.
What is the difference between the 2018 and 2023 Concord releases?
The 2018 Concord had a '45' on the heel and a higher patent leather cut, while the 2023 'Gratitude' (not Concord) featured a white patent leather and a '23' heel. The 2018 was a retro of the original with a more authentic shape, whereas the 2023 was a new colorway inspired by the 'DMP' pack.
Do Air Jordan 11s run true to size?
Most wearers recommend going half a size up, especially if you have wide feet. The toe box is narrow, and the patent leather doesn't stretch much. For a snug fit, true to size works, but for comfort, half up is safer. Always try them on if possible, as sizing can vary between releases.
What is the history of the Air Jordan 11 'DMP'?
The 'DMP' (Defining Moments Pack) was released in 2006 to celebrate Jordan's 1996 championship. It included the AJ11 'Concord' and AJ12 'Taxi'. The pack was re-released in 2020 as the 'Jubilee' with a black and white colorway. The DMP is highly sought after for its historical significance and premium packaging.
Why do Air Jordan 11 soles turn yellow?
The translucent icy soles oxidize when exposed to UV light and air, causing yellowing. This is a natural process and doesn't affect performance. To slow it down, store shoes in a dark, cool place and use UV-protective sprays. Some collectors embrace the yellowing as a sign of age and authenticity.
What is the best way to store Air Jordan 11s?
Keep them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Use shoe trees to maintain shape and stuff the toe box with tissue paper. Store in the original box or a clear container to prevent dust. Avoid plastic bags that trap moisture. For long-term storage, consider silica gel packets.
Are there any Air Jordan 11 low versions?
Yes, Jordan Brand has released low-top versions of the AJ11, such as the 'Low IE' (International Exclusive) and 'Low' colorways like 'Bred' and 'Concord'. These offer a more casual look with the same patent leather and mesh. They are popular for summer wear and often have different color blocking.
Sources
- https://www.sneakernews.com/air-jordan-11/
- https://www.stadiumgoods.com/air-jordan-11
- https://www.highsnobiety.com/p/air-jordan-11-best-colorways/
- https://solecollector.com/news/air-jordan-11-ultimate-guide
- https://www.complex.com/sneakers/a/complex/air-jordan-11-history
- https://www.nike.com/launch/t/air-jordan-11-concord
- https://stockx.com/air-jordan-11
- https://www.goat.com/sneakers/air-jordan-11
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