Did you know that the ‘flu game’ Nike Air Jordans sold for $104,000 in 2013? Well, there’s no denying that one of the iconic brands of sneakers in the history of shoes is Air Jordans. It’s the foundation of sneaker freak knowledge.
With Michael Jordan as a partner, Nike and the Air Jordans they released changed the shoe industry forever. While purchasing a new pair of Air Jordans today is more than other essential basketball sneakers, it’s the resale of previous models that the shoes truly get pricey.
Whether you’re a sneaker freak or you’re new to the world of special shoes, it’s essential to have the correct information before you buy sneakers. Keep on reading for our full breakdown of what makes Air Jordans so expensive.
The “Airness” and Legendary Origin Story: The Sneaker Freak Edition
In short, the shoes are unquestionably associated with Michael Jordan, and for a good reason. Simply because of this, they are now worth much more. Even after 17 years of retirement, we can’t ignore how much MJ influences the price of Jordans. Nike’s best investment was the Air Jordan line.
As an icon, he also had famous footwear. The inaugural colorway of the Air Jordan 1 — one of the most costly Js – breached NBA regulations. Nike eventually re-released the BANNED Jordan. It became even more sought after. After then, there was nonstop publicity.
Of course, you can always go for the general (and accessible) version of the shoes, the Air Jordan 1 Low. They’re considered one of the best shoes on the market.
The Excitement of Sneaker Collaborations
Collaborations between the footwear industry’s biggest names. In these modern times, it seems like everyone is sporting Jordans. Nike collaborates with the most epic forms of sneaker partnerships to sell its products.
Travis Scott, Eminem, and a lot more are all included on this album. Anyone who can get their hands on one of these Js collaborations is a hero to everyone. People are drawn to Jordans because of their connection to Michael Jordan’s on-court superhuman talents.
Hip-hop culture has significantly impacted contemporary music and the resale market for Jordan sneakers! In addition, the celebrity endorsements of these Jordans make individuals want to buy a pair for themselves! So long as that is true, Jordan will continue to be at the top of the food chain.
Luxury and High-End Fashion
Air Jordans are associated with high-end fashion. They’re regarded as a high-end brand for the simple reason that they are designer shoes. They aren’t your run-of-the-mill court shoes. Every release takes a lot of time and effort to put together. It’s impossible to compare one release to another.
Some customers have their shoes created to their specifications. A lot of effort goes into designing and engineering a project, which means that the process is more costly.
Nike employs some of the industry’s most outstanding sneaker engineers and designers. They also pay for Michael Jordan’s counsel, which they put on their roster. These are included in the shoe’s price.
To bear the luxury price tag, they must be promoted as high-end pairs of shoes. Luxurious goods are expected to be pricey by customers.
The Ultimate Status Symbol
Shoes have become a status symbol due to their storied history and current “it” aspect. People who possess them use them as a status symbol since they are so pricey. This establishes their authority on the court and demonstrates their knowledge of the game and their “fan status” inside it.
Air Jordans are a status symbol for a reason, no matter what that reason. Fans of Michael Jordan may consider it a method to display their devotion. Murders were perpetrated over them in the 1990s when they were first released. There was a danger to children from low-income families.
They spent their little savings on Air Jordans only to be stolen or killed in exchange for them. In low-income communities, they became a status symbol because of their high demand.
People in lower-income homes that owned a pair of Air Jordans held themselves apart from everyone else. They’re a prestige symbol even if you’re in a middle-class home. As a result of this, they’re more costly.
The Royal Family of Collectibles
Air Jordans are a sought-after memorabilia item contributing to their high market value. Occasionally, they introduce a new pair of shoes.
Every piece of art is unique.
Those who currently own a pair of Jordans will be eager to get their hands on a new pair. Michael Jordan has endorsed each of them. Their history in the NBA and their connection to Michael Jordan make them desirable as sports memorabilia. Some sneakerheads consider them collectible only for aesthetics.
It’s no surprise that Air Jordans are often sold out in two highly competitive collector industries, footwear, and sports—because of this, reselling Jordans may lead to high pricing.
Those that Nike released during Michael Jordan’s playing career and those that Nike released before it are highly sought-after. A lot has happened and is still happening in the world of these shoes.
The resale value of a classic shoe might rise by two or three times. Many individuals want to get their hands on them since they’re desirable in various collectible marketplaces. The price goes up much higher when just a handful is available at a time. New releases are no exception.
Collectors covet a new release because it may be the next great thing in a few years. Conversely, even those who don’t intend to resale the sneaker contribute to the high price of Air Jordans.
They see them as priceless pieces of art that ought to be treasured. Adding new titles to their libraries excites them just as much as previous releases did.
Sneaker Facts 101: Explained
With a history of fame, riches, and even murder, the story of Air Jordans continues way after Michael Jordan himself passed away. We hope that our guide has shed some light on why you can put these shoes on the resale market for six-figure amounts.
After all, as a budding sneaker freak, these are the basics of the market. And, if you liked reading our article, you’ll want to check out our other explainers in our fashion section.
