words // Nick DePaula:
The great thing about Air Jordans is that for the most part, the original colorways that Michael wore on court during one of the game’s most revered careers were also the colorways available at retail for us mere consumers. That isn’t quite the case today for signature athletes like LeBron and Kobe, as we’re all aware.
During an era where less than a handful of colorways released for each annual game shoe, MJ did get a player exclusive version on a couple occasions. Luckily for us, one of the rarest of original PEs is finally on the way back as a Retro later this month — the original Air Jordan XI Low in Black / True Red.
Much like the iconic mid-cut counterpart, the shoe features a gleaming black patent leather overlay, white midsole and translucent red outsole — but there were two original variations of the Black / Red XI Low PEs.
One with a black lining that Michael wore during the ’96 Finals, and one with a red lining that he kicked around later that summer.
The red lined edition is hitting stores on May 23rd, but there’s definitely quite a debate to be had over which look is better.
Let us know in the comments section below and by voting in our poll — Black or Red?
Air Jordan XI Low PE — Black lining
Air Jordan XI Low PE — Red lining
Air Jordan Retro 11 Low — Black / True Red
[polldaddy poll=8855751]
