Jordans vs Nike’s Air Jordans: Difference and Comparison

Nike makes some of the best sneakers, especially the Jordan and Air Jordans. Nike’s Air Jordans sneakers were introduced to the public in the mid-1980s.

The first Air Jordan sneaker was made in 1984 for former professional NBA player Michael Jeffery Jordan. Air Jordan is a shoe brand produced by Nike Inc. and named after the six-time NBA championship winner.

Generally, Jordans is not a recognized name for a shoe brand but a nickname often used to refer to Nike’s Air Jordan shoes.

So, is there a difference between Jordans and Nike Air Jordans (Jordans vs Nike’s Air Jordans)?

What Is the Jordan Brand?

Initially known as Brand Jordan, this shoe brand was introduced by former NBA star Michael Jordan. The Jordan Brand and the Air Jordan 13 were both launched on September 9, 1997.

The Jordan Brand produces Air Jordans with other sneakers and trendy accessories. Air Jordans shoes are different sneakers from the Jordan Brand sneakers.

However, both sneakers are sold under the Jordan Brand. The Jordan Brand also collaborate with other athletes and not just Michael Jordan.

The Jordan Brand makes huge sales each year selling products such as clothing, classy sneakers, and accessories. According to sources online, the Jordan Brand sold products worth over $5.1 billion in 2022 alone.

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What Is Nike Air Jordan?

Air Jordan is a line of basketball sneakers marketed under the Jordan Brand. The sneakers are produced by Nike Inc. and were first made for six-time NBA championship winner Michael Jordan in 1984.

Nike’s Air Jordan was released to the public on April 1, 1985, a year after it was made for former NBA legend Michael Jordan. Michael Jordan and Nike agreed on a five-year worth $2.5 million.

At that time, the deal with Nike was the most lucrative, three times more than any other deal in the NBA. Nike hoped to make at least $3 million in the first three years selling the shoes in the market.

They made way more than they expected in three years in one year. Nike made huge sales and earned a whopping $126 million in just one year.

The iconic “Jumpman” logo on the sneakers was inspired by a photo of Michael Jordan for Life Magazine. The picture was taken before Jordan played for Team USA at the 1984 Summer Olympics, even before he signed the multimillion-dollar deal with Nike.

The “Jumpman” logo replaced the Nike Air Jordan logo and has since gone through several changes. This logo is on all Nike sneakers, hats, attire, socks, and other forms of wear produced by Nike.

Jordans vs Nike’s Air Jordans: Differences between Jordans and Nike Air Jordans

The Jordan Brand is a branch of Nike and they make one of the best sneakers in the market. Nike’s Air Jordan and the Jordan Brand sneakers all connect to the former NBA player Michael Jordan.

The NBA legend inspired the “Jumpman” logo before he even signed a deal with Nike to make one of the best sneakers sold in the market.

Nike’s Air Jordan was first produced for the former NBA star Michael Jordan in 1984. It was later released to the public on April 1, 1985, and Nike made over $120 million in just one year.

Their expectation was to make at least $3 million for the first three years but they made way more than that in 12 months.

Air Jordan is a trendy footwear with sleek designs and air technology. New models with innovative designs have been subsequently released by Nike since the sneakers were first introduced in 1985.

Nike’s Air Jordan is a classy footwear that is not just worn by athletes but celebrities have also worn these shoes to big events.

Initially known as Brand Jordan, this shoe brand was introduced by former NBA star Michael Jordan. The Jordan Brand and the Air Jordan 13 were both launched on September 9, 1997.

The Jordan Brand sneakers and the Nike’s Air Jordan are manufactured by Nike Inc. However, Air Jordans are considered to be more comfy sneakers than the Jordan Brand sneakers.

Air Jordans cost more than the Jordan Brand sneakers. Although they are produced by Nike, most people prefer to purchase Air Jordans than the Jordan Brand sneakers.

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Jordans vs Nike’s Air Jordans: Key Differences between Jordans and Air Jordans

Former professional basketball player and six-time NBA championship winner Michael Jordan inspired the Air Jordan shoe line and the “Jumpman” logo.

Jordan was first approached to sign a shoe deal with Nike, Converse, and Adidas in 1984. During the meeting with the former NBA star, Nike focused their presentation on a highlight video of the former NBA star’s several slam dunks.

Nike presented its first design of the shoe to Michael Jordan which the former NBA star criticized because of its colour way. Nike agreed with Jordan and later made him a stand-alone star, giving him Jordan a signature shoe line.

Michael Jordan and Nike agreed on a five-year worth $2.5 million.

However, they made way more than they expected in three years in one year. Nike made huge sales and earned a whopping $126 million in just one year.

Jordans vs Nike’s Air Jordans: Characteristics of Air Jordans

Let’s look at some of the unique characteristics of Ait Jordans.

Nike’s Air Technology

The “Air” in Nike’s Air Jordans typically refers to the Air Technology, a built-in cushioning system used in the soles of the shoes.

The reason for making innovative footwear with the “Air” technology was to create a shoe with optimal cushioning for athletes.

Nike designed the “Air” system with a flexible bag filled with pressurized air. The Air system works with the airbag absorbing the force from impact i.e. the impact of a foot hitting the ground while running or jumping.

Design

Air Jordan is a trendy footwear with sleek designs and air technology. New models with innovative designs have been subsequently released by Nike since the sneakers were first introduced in 1985.

Nike’s Air Jordan is a classy footwear that is not just worn by athletes but celebrities have also worn these shoes to big events.

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Performance

Most people prefer to purchase Air Jordan than the Jordan Brand sneakers. Perhaps the main reason why Nike made a huge sale with Air Jordan was because it had a connection with the greatest NBA star of all time.

But, we can all agree that Air Jordans are performance-oriented. Since 1985, Nike has produced new models that are durable with features that enhance grip, comfort and overall performance.

Logo

The iconic “Jumpman” logo on the sneakers was inspired by a photo of Michael Jordan for Life Magazine. The “Jumpman” logo is a silhouette of Jordan and it’s on all Nike sneakers, hats, attire, socks, and other forms of wear produced by Nike.

Price

Air Jordan is available in various models and colours. Whether you are looking for something nice for kids or adults, you can check out Nike’s official website for the prices.

But expect to spend between $190 to $225 based on your preferred model and style.

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Jordans vs Nike’s Air Jordans: Pros and Cons of Air Technology in Air Jordans

Pros

Improved performance	The Air unit enhances performance by providing better bounce and responsiveness. With this, athletes can improve their jump ability.
Enhance comfort	Air technology provides better cushioning and shock absorption. This makes a difference in sports where athletes jump frequently.
Injury	The Air technology provides better support and stability and it help reduce the chances of injury.
Durability	Air cushioning technology is very durable and protective

Cons

Cost	Air Jordans have a built-in cushioning system used in the soles of the shoes. They cost more compared to other shoes worn by athletes
Potential for damage	Although Air Jordans are a durable footwear, the Air unit can be punctured or damaged. A deflated Air Jordan won’t be useful.
Wear	The air cushioning on Air Jordan can wear out over time.
Comfort preference	Not all athletes like the feel of air cushioning

Conclusion

Generally, Jordans is not a recognized name for a shoe brand but a nickname often used to refer to Nike’s Air Jordan shoes. Air Jordan is a trendy footwear with sleek designs and air technology.