story

On the heels of Michael Jordan’s introduction to the footwear game, the Air Jordan 2 took him to new heights. MJ secured his first scoring title in 1987 while playing in this silhouette.

Originally released in 1986, for the Air Jordan 2, Air Jordan 1 designer Peter Moore and the man behind the Air Force 1, Bruce Kilgore, created a silhouette unlike any basketball shoe before it.

Only four variations were available originally - two colorways each in a high and low version. But what made the Air Jordan 2 so special at the time was that it combined high-end fashion with basketball performance.

The original Air Jordan 2 was the first luxury hoop shoe made in Italy, where their shoemaking expertise, top tier materials, and handcrafted touch made all the difference.

Each pair featured faux iguana skin, sleek lines, and most-noticeably, no swoosh.

This was more than just a pivotal moment in Jordan footwear design. While laced up in the Air Jordan 2, MJ would go on to win his first Slam Dunk trophy and accomplish the NBA’s 2nd ever 3,000 point season.

After its initial release, it wasn’t until 1994 that the Air Jordan 2 retroed for the first time in just one simple colorway.

Since the first retro in 1994, there have been various iterations, each showcasing the iconic design in its own unique way. The Air Jordan 2 has seen faux iguana skin and leather replaced by premium suedes, luxury leather and national African patterns.

In 2022, there have been multiple collaborations on the model that have continued the legacy of the AJ2. Collaborators included J Balvin, A Ma Maniére, Maison Château Rouge, and more.

The Air Jordan 2 'Chicago' is made to the same specs as the original, like faux iguana skin, no Swoosh, and the original Nike Air and Wings logos. 36 years later, the Air Jordan 2 stands as a symbol of Jordan Brand’s bold beginnings.

Inside the Vault

Air Jordan 2