Most Expensive Air Jordan Sneakers
The Nike Air Jordan may just be the most recognizable sneakers in the world today. There have been 34 official Jordan releases since 1985 and over a hundred reimagined designs released over the years. It's almost ways guaranteed that there is an Air Jordan in every sneakerhead's closet, and the collection doesn't just stop with a few pairs. These sneakers are not even cheap to begin with, but the reseller market has caused prices to skyrocket even more in the past few years. Here are the eight most expensive Air Jordans ever sold:
1. 1998 Finals Game-Worn Air Jordan 13 - $2.2 Million
The 1998 NBA Finals Game-Worn Air Jordan 13 "Bred" sneakers, donned by Michael Jordan during Game 2, fetched a record-breaking $2.2 million at Sotheby's auction in April 2023. These size 13 shoes feature a black and red colorway, characteristic of the "Bred" design, and were autographed by Jordan, enhancing their historical and monetary value.
2. Air Jordan 10 x OVO "Solid Gold" - $2.1 Million
The Air Jordan 10 x OVO "Solid Gold" sneakers are a one-of-a-kind creation commissioned by rapper Drake. Crafted by artist Matthew Senna, these shoes are made entirely of 24-karat gold and weigh approximately 100 pounds. Valued at around $2.1 million, they are among the most expensive Air Jordans ever produced.
3. Game-Worn Air Jordan 12 ‘Flu Game’ - $1.38 Million
The Game-Worn Air Jordan 12 'Flu Game' sneakers, donned by Michael Jordan during his legendary 1997 NBA Finals performance, fetched $1.38 million at auction, ranking among the priciest Air Jordans ever sold. These iconic shoes feature a black leather upper with varsity red accents, embodying both historical significance and premium craftsmanship.
4. Air Jordan 1 Chicago Broken Sole - $1.02 Million
The Air Jordan 1 Chicago "Broken Sole" is among the most expensive Air Jordans, fetching $1,012,500 at auction. This rare pair features the iconic Chicago colorway red, white, and black and is distinguished by its unique sole design, a result of modifications made after Michael Jordan's foot injury to enhance support and performance.
5. Air Jordan 1 Nike Dunk Sole game-worn in the intermediate design - $675,000
In 1986, during his recovery from a foot injury, Michael Jordan wore a unique pair of Air Jordan 1 sneakers featuring a Nike Dunk sole. This design provided enhanced support and comfort. One such game-worn, autographed pair sold for $675,000 at auction, highlighting its rarity and historical significance.
6. Air Jordan 1 High "Shattered Backboard Origin Story" - $615,000
The Air Jordan 1 High "Shattered Backboard" commemorates Michael Jordan's 1985 exhibition game in Italy, where he shattered a backboard with a powerful dunk. This sneaker features a black, white, and orange colorway, mirroring the uniform worn during that game. Crafted with premium leather, it includes the original "Nike Air" branding and a translucent outsole.
7. Air Jordan 1, game-worn and signed twice - $615,000
The 1985 Air Jordan 1, game-worn and twice signed by Michael Jordan, is among the most expensive Air Jordan sneakers, selling for $615,000 in 2021. These sneakers feature mismatched sizes-13 (left) and 13.5 (right) and were signed initially in 1985 and again in 1991.Their unique provenance and condition contribute to their high value.
8. Air Jordan 11 "Space Jam" - $176,400
The Air Jordan 11 "Space Jam" is a celebrated sneaker, first worn by Michael Jordan during the 1995 NBA Playoffs and popularized by the 1996 film "Space Jam." It features a black ballistic mesh upper, patent leather mudguard, white midsole, and translucent outsole. While iconic, it is not among the most expensive Air Jordans ever sold.
9. Air Jordan 1 "Shattered Backboard Factory Flaw" - $146,000
The Air Jordan 1 "Reverse Shattered Backboard" with an upside-down Swoosh is a rare factory flaw that significantly increases its value. This unique defect led to a valuation of approximately $125,000, making it one of the most expensive Air Jordan sneakers. The shoe features a black, white, and orange color scheme, inspired by Michael Jordan's 1986 exhibition game in Italy.
9. Air Jordan 10 "OVO" - $100,000
The Air Jordan 10 "OVO" is a collaboration between Jordan Brand and Drake's October's Very Own (OVO) label. Released in 2015, it features premium tumbled leather, stingray-textured overlays, and metallic gold accents. The translucent outsole showcases OVO branding. While not the most expensive Air Jordan, it remains a sought-after collector's item.
As more Jordans hit sneaker stores as well as resale markets, prices will go up further. This likely won’t stop sneakerheads who are never deterred from spending thousands of dollars for a single pair of basketball shoes.
