1984-85 Air Jordan I vs. 1986-87 Air Jordan II
What's the Difference?
The 1984-85 Air Jordan I and the 1986-87 Air Jordan II are both iconic sneakers that helped solidify Michael Jordan's status as a basketball legend. The Air Jordan I was the first signature shoe for Jordan and featured a bold design with the iconic "Wings" logo and Nike swoosh. In contrast, the Air Jordan II was a more refined and luxurious shoe, featuring a sleek design with faux lizard skin accents and a unique midfoot strap. Both shoes were groundbreaking in their own right and helped pave the way for the success of the Air Jordan brand.
Comparison
| Attribute | 1984-85 Air Jordan I | 1986-87 Air Jordan II |
|---|---|---|
| Release Year | 1984-85 | 1986-87 |
| Designer | Peter Moore | Bruce Kilgore |
| Colorways | Black/Red, Black/Blue, Black/White | White/Black-Red, Black/Red, White/Red |
| Materials | Leather, Synthetic | Leather, Synthetic |
| Technology | Air cushioning | Midfoot support strap |
Further Detail
Design
The Air Jordan I, released in 1984-85, featured a high-top design with a prominent Nike Swoosh on the side. The shoe also had the iconic "Wings" logo on the ankle collar, adding a touch of flair to the overall look. In contrast, the Air Jordan II, released in 1986-87, had a more streamlined and sophisticated design. The high-top silhouette was replaced with a mid-top design, and the Nike Swoosh was removed, giving the shoe a more minimalist aesthetic.
Materials
One of the key differences between the Air Jordan I and Air Jordan II is the materials used in their construction. The Air Jordan I was made with a combination of leather and synthetic materials, providing durability and support for basketball players. On the other hand, the Air Jordan II featured a more luxurious construction, with a full leather upper and faux lizard skin accents. This premium material choice gave the Air Jordan II a more upscale look and feel compared to its predecessor.
Technology
When it comes to technology, the Air Jordan II introduced several new features that set it apart from the Air Jordan I. One of the most notable advancements was the use of a full-length Air Sole unit in the midsole, providing enhanced cushioning and impact protection. Additionally, the Air Jordan II featured a supportive ankle collar and a molded heel counter for added stability on the court. These technological innovations made the Air Jordan II a top choice for basketball players looking for performance and style.
Colorways
Both the Air Jordan I and Air Jordan II were released in a variety of colorways to appeal to different tastes and preferences. The Air Jordan I was initially released in the iconic "Bred" (black and red) and "Chicago" (white, black, and red) color schemes, which quickly became fan favorites. In contrast, the Air Jordan II was released in more subdued colorways, such as white and black, as well as the popular "Infrared" color scheme. Despite the differences in color options, both shoes were highly sought after by sneaker enthusiasts and basketball fans alike.
Legacy
Both the Air Jordan I and Air Jordan II played a significant role in shaping the legacy of the Air Jordan brand. The Air Jordan I, with its bold design and association with Michael Jordan's rookie season, became an instant classic and set the stage for future Air Jordan releases. The Air Jordan II, with its innovative technology and premium materials, further solidified the brand's reputation for quality and performance. Together, these two shoes laid the foundation for the Air Jordan line's continued success and influence in the world of sneakers and basketball.
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