When discussing sneaker grails, the Air Jordan XI is one of the first that instantly comes to mind. The shoe changed the way we look at design forever. The crisp patent leather and translucent sole showcased a balance of elegance, style and performance. Michael Jordan first unveiled them on May 7, 1995, during Game 1 of the Eastern Conference semifinals after a 17-month retirement from the NBA. Jordan brought out the XI ‘Concord’ with the No. 45 on each heel during the Chicago Bulls' series against the Orlando Magic.
Tinker Hatfield, the iconic designer behind the sneaker, told GQ in 2012: "I started designing the Air Jordan XI during Michael's first retirement—I kept saying he would un-retire.