AIR JORDAN 6: THE SNEAKER THAT CROWNED MICHAEL JORDAN'S FIRST TITLE
AIR JORDAN 6: ITS STORY
Launched in 1991, the Air Jordan 6 was crafted by the renowned Tinker Hatfield, who designed Air Jordans 3 through 15. In 1991, Michael Jordan won his first NBA Championship and Finals MVP with the Chicago Bulls, while sporting the Air Jordan 6, six years after the debut of the Air Jordan 1.
Initially, the Air Jordan 6 was available in five distinct colorways, headlined by the iconic White Infrared and Black Infrared.
A SLEEK NIKE SNEAKER DESIGN
To create the best possible shoe for His Airness, Tinker Hatfield went above and beyond with the Air Jordan 6, moving away from the classic design of the Air Jordan 1 Mid and Air Jordan 1 High.
In response to Michael Jordan's request for a cleaner model in terms of both style and material, Hatfield drew inspiration from Italian shoes made with a single piece and material. To meet Jordan's needs, Hatfield designed the Air Jordan 6 with a better finish and lighter weight. He used suede, a synthetic leather, instead of traditional leather. The inserts even feature a "23", referencing Jordan's number. To compensate for the lack of breathability caused by the suede, Hatfield incorporated perforations throughout much of the model.
Several elements, such as the heeltab and tongue, received special attention. The Air Jordan 6 was the first to feature a heeltab, a small strap at the back of the sneaker for easier and faster lacing. This strap was inspired by Michael Jordan's Porsche spoiler and was later revisited but ultimately abandoned starting with the Air Jordan 11. The neoprene-integrated tongue also received careful design, with two openings for better support and breathability. The Air Jordan 6 was the last model to have a visible air bubble in the midsole.
AIR JORDAN 6 COLLABORATIONS
Though perhaps not as popular as some other basketball models from the brand, the Air Jordan 6 has seen its share of collaborations. Its first joint venture involved young patients through the Doernbecher program in 2009.
Subsequently, the Jumpman showcased the Air Jordan 6 through partnerships with Jordan Motorsports, Macklemore, the Slam Dunk manga, and Gatorade between 2010 and 2017.
More recent collaborations include Aleali May (Spring 2019), PSG (Summer 2019), and Levi's in 2020. However, the most talked-about collaboration for the Air Jordan 6 was with American rapper Travis Scott in 2019, a year after collaborating on the Air Jordan 4. Released in two colors, British Khaki and Medium Olive, this Air Jordan 6 features unique snap pockets on the sides.
JORDAN 6 RETRO
In 2000, nine years after its initial release, the Air Jordan 6 was reintroduced with the first Retro models. In 2002, the Air Jordan 6 made a comeback, this time in a low-top version.
AIR JORDAN 6 COLORS FOR MEN AND WOMEN
Over the years, this iconic sneaker, known for its history and design, has seen several editions. Released in various colors, this shoe is suitable for both men and women, with popular options like the Air Jordan 6 Retro Carmine, UNC, and Electric Green. As with many Nike and Jordan Brand models, this shoe can be worn by either gender.
SIZING FOR THE AIR JORDAN 6
When it comes to sizing the Air Jordan 6, this model tends to run slightly larger. Therefore, it is recommended to opt for a half size smaller than your usual size, as opposed to the Air Jordan 5, for example. By doing so, you can ensure a better fit and comfort while wearing this timeless and stylish sneaker.