Why do some Jordans have Nike logo?

By Edcel Panganiban December 04, 2023 06:56

The History of Air Jordans and Nike Partnership

The iconic Air Jordans have become a cultural phenomenon, with their unique design and connection to basketball legend Michael Jordan. One intriguing aspect of these sneakers is the presence of the Nike logo on some Jordans. So, why do some Jordans have the Nike logo? Let's delve into the history of Air Jordans and the partnership between Nike and Michael Jordan.

The Birth of Air Jordans

In the early 1980s, Nike was a relatively new player in the athletic footwear market. They were looking for a way to make a big impact and compete with established brands. That's when they signed a groundbreaking endorsement deal with Michael Jordan, a rising star in the NBA. This partnership would go on to change the sneaker industry forever.

The First Air Jordan

The first Air Jordan sneaker, the Air Jordan 1, was released in 1985. This shoe was a game-changer, both in terms of design and performance. It featured a bold and unconventional design for its time, with its high-top silhouette and vibrant colorways. It was an instant hit among basketball players and sneaker enthusiasts.

The Nike Logo

At the time of the Air Jordan 1's release, NBA players were required to wear shoes that matched the team's colors. However, this rule didn't sit well with Michael Jordan, who wanted to stand out on the court. Nike saw an opportunity here and decided to create a separate brand for Jordan's sneakers, known as "Air Jordans."

The Jordan Brand

The birth of the Jordan Brand marked a significant shift in the sneaker industry. It gave Michael Jordan the creative freedom to design his own sneakers, separate from the team's colors. This allowed for more innovative and eye-catching designs, which quickly became popular among consumers. The Nike logo was prominently displayed on these sneakers, symbolizing the partnership between Nike and Jordan.

The Jumpman Logo

While the Nike logo was present on the early Air Jordans, it gradually gave way to the iconic Jumpman logo. The Jumpman logo, featuring Michael Jordan's silhouette in mid-air, became synonymous with the Jordan Brand. It represented the athleticism, style, and excellence that Jordan brought to the game of basketball.

Retro Jordans

As the years went by, the Air Jordans gained even more popularity. Nike started re-releasing older models, known as "retros," to meet the demand of nostalgic sneakerheads. These retro releases often featured the Nike logo, paying homage to the brand's early days.

The Exclusivity Factor

Another reason why some Jordans have the Nike logo is exclusivity. Nike occasionally releases special editions and collaborations that feature both the Nike and Jordan logos. These limited-edition releases create a sense of exclusivity and drive up demand among sneaker enthusiasts.

The Branding Strategy

The presence of the Nike logo on some Jordans is part of a strategic branding decision. While the Jordan Brand has established itself as a separate entity, it is still under the Nike umbrella. The Nike logo on select Jordans helps maintain the connection to Nike's legacy and reinforces the strong partnership between the two brands.

The presence of the Nike logo on some Jordans is a result of the partnership between Nike and Michael Jordan. It represents the history, innovation, and excellence that both brands bring to the table. Whether it's for branding purposes, exclusivity, or paying homage to the early days, the Nike logo on Air Jordans adds to their allure and makes them even more coveted by sneaker enthusiasts worldwide.