Michael Jordan’s legacy extends far beyond basketball; it encompasses a cultural phenomenon, with the Air Jordan brand at its forefront. Since its inception in 1984, the Air Jordan line has evolved, influencing fashion, music, and sports. Here’s a look at the 40 most popular Jordans of all time, celebrating their unique designs, historical significance, and impact on sneaker culture.

1. Air Jordan 1

Released in 1985, the Air Jordan 1 was Michael Jordan’s first signature shoe. Known for its rebellious history (banned by the NBA), it laid the foundation for sneaker culture.

2. Air Jordan 3

Introduced in 1988, the AJ3 was designed by Tinker Hatfield and featured the first visible Air unit. It’s also famous for the iconic Jumpman logo.

3. Air Jordan 4

The AJ4 debuted in 1989 and became a favorite for its design and comfort. It gained further popularity thanks to its appearance in Spike Lee’s “Do the Right Thing.”

4. Air Jordan 5

Released in 1990, the AJ5 featured a unique silhouette inspired by fighter jets and introduced reflective materials and a translucent outsole.

5. Air Jordan 6

Worn during Jordan’s first championship run in 1991, the AJ6 features a sleek design and is notable for its comfortable fit and rubberized “finger” tongue.

6. Air Jordan 7

Launched in 1992, the AJ7 was designed without visible Nike branding. Its unique aesthetic was inspired by African tribal art.

7. Air Jordan 8

Released in 1993, the AJ8 is known for its distinctive crossover straps and is often associated with Jordan’s sixth NBA championship.

8. Air Jordan 9

The AJ9 debuted in 1993 and was unique as it was the first model released after Jordan’s initial retirement. It features a design inspired by a globe.

9. Air Jordan 10

The AJ10, released in 1994, showcased a clean silhouette and a unique outsole that listed Jordan’s career achievements.

10. Air Jordan 11

One of the most beloved Jordans, the AJ11 debuted in 1995 with a patent leather design. It’s famously associated with Jordan’s return to basketball.

11. Air Jordan 12

Released in 1996, the AJ12 is known for its luxury design and was the first Air Jordan to feature full-length Zoom Air cushioning.

12. Air Jordan 13

The AJ13, released in 1997, is celebrated for its cat-like design and was inspired by Jordan’s nickname, “Black Cat.”

13. Air Jordan 14

Debuted in 1998, the AJ14 was inspired by Jordan’s love for sports cars, featuring sleek lines and a Ferrari-inspired logo.

14. Air Jordan 15

The AJ15, released in 1999, had a more avant-garde design, drawing inspiration from the classic Air Jordan 2 and Jordan’s journey.

15. Air Jordan 16

The AJ16 debuted in 2001 and introduced a unique shroud design. It represents Jordan’s evolving style as he transitioned into a different phase of his career.

16. Air Jordan 17

Released in 2002, the AJ17 was inspired by jazz and featured a luxury aesthetic with a high-end look.

17. Air Jordan 18

The AJ18, released in 2003, was Jordan’s final signature shoe during his playing career, featuring a sleek design and luxurious materials.

18. Air Jordan 19

Debuted in 2004, the AJ19 showcased a futuristic design and introduced a new level of performance technology.

19. Air Jordan 20

The AJ20, released in 2005, featured a unique laser-etched design and represented a shift towards more performance-oriented sneakers.

20. Air Jordan 21

The AJ21, launched in 2006, is known for its combination of luxury and performance, reflecting Jordan’s iconic status.

21. Air Jordan 22

Released in 2007, the AJ22 incorporated advanced technology and showcased a design inspired by Jordan’s journey.

22. Air Jordan 23

The AJ23, launched in 2008, featured eco-friendly materials and was inspired by Michael Jordan’s legacy on and off the court.

23. Air Jordan 28

The AJ28 debuted in 2013, featuring a unique, form-fitting design that prioritized performance for the modern player.

24. Air Jordan 29

Released in 2014, the AJ29 featured a Flyknit upper and was designed for lightweight performance and versatility.

25. Air Jordan 30

The AJ30, launched in 2015, celebrated Jordan’s legacy with a blend of classic and modern elements, focusing on innovation.

26. Air Jordan 31

Debuted in 2016, the AJ31 features a seamless design that pays homage to the original Air Jordan 1.

27. Air Jordan 32

Released in 2017, the AJ32 combined elements from the AJ2 and advanced technology for a modern performance sneaker.

28. Air Jordan 33

The AJ33, launched in 2018, features a unique fast-lacing system and represents a blend of performance and style.

29. Air Jordan 34

Debuted in 2019, the AJ34 is known for its lightweight design and responsiveness, emphasizing modern performance needs.

30. Air Jordan 35

Released in 2020, the AJ35 focuses on maximizing performance while incorporating a sleek and stylish design.

31. Air Jordan 36

The AJ36, launched in 2021, combines heritage style with the latest in sneaker technology for serious on-court performance.

32. Air Jordan 37

Released in 2022, the AJ37 showcases an innovative design while honoring the legacy of the Air Jordan line.

33. Air Jordan 38

The AJ38 debuted in 2023, featuring a unique aesthetic and advanced materials aimed at enhancing performance.

34. Air Jordan 1 Retro OG

This retro version of the original AJ1 has gained immense popularity for its classic colorways and nostalgic appeal.

35. Air Jordan 3 Retro

The retro releases of the AJ3 continue to captivate sneaker enthusiasts with their timeless design and iconic colorways.

36. Air Jordan 4 Retro

The retro AJ4s are a staple in sneaker culture, consistently re-released in new colorways and collaborations.

37. Air Jordan 11 Retro

The retro releases of the AJ11, especially the “Concord” and “Space Jam” editions, are highly coveted by collectors.

38. Air Jordan 6 Retro

The AJ6 Retro offers a chance to own a piece of history, with new colorways keeping the design fresh and relevant.

39. Air Jordan 5 Retro

Retro versions of the AJ5 maintain their popularity, particularly for their nostalgic appeal and bold colorways.

40. Air Jordan 1 High OG

The high-top version of the AJ1 remains a favorite, consistently released in both classic and modern colorways, solidifying its place in sneaker history.

Summary of the Most Popular Jordans of All Time

The Air Jordan line represents more than just sneakers; it embodies a cultural movement that continues to evolve. From the original releases to modern iterations, each shoe tells a story of innovation, style, and the enduring legacy of Michael Jordan. Whether you’re a die-hard sneakerhead or a casual fan, the influence of these iconic sneakers is undeniable. As the Air Jordan brand continues to innovate and inspire, it’s clear that its popularity will endure for generations to come.