Since the conception of the Air Jordan 1 to the most recent Air Jordan 37, the Nike Air Jordan has stood the test of time as an iconic symbol of both athletic achievement and cultural significance within the sneaker industry and society at large. Introduced in the 1980’s, Nike Air Jordans forever shifted the way basketball sneakers were designed, marketed, and perceived, which set a new bar for style and innovation.
We curated a collection of the best Nike Air Jordan Retros for sale at Sotheby's. If you are a seasoned sneaker collector or a curious shopper looking to get acquainted with Nike Air Jordans, these sneakers are the perfect addition to any collection. Air Jordan Retros have remained a beloved and influential force because they have proved that sneakers have the power to seamlessly blend sports, fashion, and pop culture. Read on to discover Retro Nike Air Jordans available on our online Sneaker Shop.
Best Air Jordan Retros to Buy Now
1. Nike Air Jordan 4 Retro Doernbecher
Created in 2011 by Isaiah Scott of the OHSU Doernbecher Children’s Hospital, this Nike Air Jordan 4 Retro Doernbecher is not only stylish but symbolic as well. On brand with other Doernbecher releases, this sneaker includes symbols and designs selected by a patient of the hospital. This sneaker design pulls influence from Superman with a black nubuck upper, with bright green and blue accents on the midsole, branding and eyestay. First debuted at the 1989 NBA-All Star Game, the Nike Air Jordan 4 is noted as one of the most popular sneaker models in the Air Jordan lineage.
2. Nike Air Jordan 3 Retro White Cement 88 Dunk Contest
This Nike Air Jordan 3 celebrates the 25th anniversary of Michael Jordan's legendary free-throw line dunk. Its reinvention pays respects to the OG Air Jordan 3 worn by the star during the 1988 contest. The Jordan 3 was dropped online only at exactly 3:51 CST to commemorate the moment Michael won the 1988 contest.
A translucent outsole with a visible red stripe beneath alludes to a visual of half-court where the star made the shot. The Air Jordan 3 also features a white leather upper with a gray elephant print overlaying the toe and heel. Another highlight is the original Nike Air branding instead of the Jumpman logo, which hasn’t been done on an Air Jordan 3 since the 1944 retro.
3. Nike Air Jordan 2 Retro The Way I Am
The Nike Air Jordan 2 The Way I Am, applauds Detroit native Eminem through its bold design and unique silhouette. The Air Jordan 2 stands out thanks to the red and white text across the ankle and toe box that illustrates lyrics from Eminem's 2000 song, "The Way I Am." In addition, the Nike Jordan 2 adorns a light gray suede upper with black textured panels. According to rumors, 313 pairs were distributed as part of the celebration of Detroit.
4. Nike Air Jordan 1 Retro High Chicago
Included in the Jordan Brand’s remastered lineup, the Jordan 1 Retro Chicago (2015) maintained its predecessor’s iconic 1985 design. The Nike Air Jordan shaped basketball and streetwear history while allowing Nike to cement themselves as a renowned brand in the industry. As a favorite of Michael Jordan, the Peter Moore design was worn by Jordan in 1984, 1985 and the modified version in 1986 even after breaking his foot. The design takes almost all of its original details from the original, including the Nike Air tongue tag, the clean heel panel and the embossed wing logo.
From the day Air Jordans were launched, they have served as a tangible representation of high quality, craftsmanship and innovation. Their success has followed them throughout the years with the creation of new signature Jordan 1s each season. This tradition has continued beyond Michael’s retirement, and Nike is currently on the Air Jordan 37.
5. Nike Air Jordan 2 Retro Doernbecher
As a part of the Doernbecher Freestyle Collection, which showcases artwork created by patients of the Doernbecher Children's Hospital, the Nike Air Jordan 2 Retro DB "Doernbecher" was launched in 2007. Designed by Sheridan Brenton, this Air Jordan 2 Retro is highlighted by a green paisley pattern and a black suede upper with pebbled leather side panels. The top eyelets, side panels, and outsole of the Jordan 2s are accentuated with gold accents. Additionally, the unique sun-embroidered tongue with the words "Proverbs 8:28" and the numbers "35" printed on the inner tags and 35 perforations on the forefoot, corresponding to Brenton's jersey number, are examples of personal embellishments.
