Kai Hoo-Lochrie
Nike and the Jordan Brand have collaborated for years, creating stunning Air Jordan models. It all started with a custom collection of sneakers designed for Michael Jordan himself, and since then, they have released new sneakers at significant moments in Jordan’s career. Collaborations with artists, musicians, actors, and athletes like Spike Lee, Will Smith, Denzel Washington, and Kobe Bryant have made Air Jordan sneakers iconic.
One such iconic release was the Air Jordan VIII (Jordan 8). Released in 1993, this silhouette debuted during the NBA All-Star Game and instantly impressed fans with its beautiful design. The eighth iteration of Air Jordans featured a heavier silhouette and a more prominent padded collar. The colors were mainly accents on the bottom of the sneaker, keeping the upper plain.
The Air Jordan VIII was unique in its design, with a shroud that covered the laces in the form of cross straps. It was also the first Jordan sneaker to have both laces and a buckle. The absence of the Nike Swoosh and the Air Jordan Wings logo on the sneaker’s details made it recognizable through the chenille Jumpman logo on the tongue.
Among the most popular Air Jordans of all time, the Air Jordan VIII has seen various stunning colorways and collaborations. Here are some notable ones:
1. Air Jordan VIII “Alternate ’89”: This colorway imagines what Michael Jordan could have worn during a 1993 Chicago Bulls home game. Predominantly white with red hardware and a black strap on the back, it bears similarities to the Air Jordan VIII “Bugs Bunny” but with distinct differences.
2. OVO x Air Jordan 8 Retro “White”: Drake’s OVO brand collaborated with Nike to create this exclusive white version of the Air Jordan VIII. It features gold accents and OVO branding on the insole.
3. OVO x Air Jordan 8 “Gold”: Taking the Air Jordan VIII silhouette to another level, this iteration features a shiny gold leather upper, see-through outsole, and white midsole and inner lining. It is unlikely to be released commercially.
4. OVO x Air Jordan VIII “Black”: Similar to the “White” version, this pair is blanketed in black with gold accents and hardware. The pebbled/tumbled leather upper adds detail and reflection.
5. Air Jordan VIII Retro “White Aqua”: This women’s exclusive colorway incorporates deep blue, aquamarine, white, gray, and a pop of yellow. Known for its resemblance to Chris Paul’s player-exclusive sneakers, it was re-released in 2019.
6. Air Jordan VIII “Aqua”: A non-female exclusive counterpart to the “White Aqua” colorway, this version replaces the yellow with a darker theme. It features black, deeper blues, and red accents, complementing the “White Aqua” pair.
7. Air Jordan VIII Retro “Valentine’s Day”: Nike celebrates the day of love with this special edition Air Jordan VIII. The colorway and details are designed with Valentine’s Day in mind.
Nike and the Jordan Brand continue to impress with each Air Jordan release, keeping sneakerheads excited for what’s to come. These iconic sneakers have become essential pieces in sneaker culture, appreciated for their design, collaborations, and historical significance in Michael Jordan’s career.
