Nike Released First Air Jordan 11 Low Space Jam

The iconic basketball shoe design expands with a new low-top version featuring the celebrated Space Jam colorway.

Updated on Sept. 28, 2026 in Basketball

Nike Released First Air Jordan 11 Low Space Jam

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Nike has launched the first-ever Air Jordan 11 Low Space Jam sneaker, expanding on the legacy of a silhouette that originally debuted in 1995. The design continues the tradition of a model first popularized by Michael Jordan during the 1995 Eastern Conference Finals.

Why it matters

Tinker Hatfield originally developed the Air Jordan 11 to innovate basketball footwear design at the request of Michael Jordan, who sought a shiny, formal-looking shoe. This model became a staple of the line due to its unique technical features, including a patent leather mudguard and a carbon fiber plate.

An original pair of sneakers worn in the 1996 film sold for $176,000 at auction in 2021. The Air Jordan 11 silhouette was one of 15 models designed for the brand by Tinker Hatfield.

The players

Michael Jordan

He is a legendary former NBA player who won six championships and inspired the creation of the Air Jordan sneaker line.

Tinker Hatfield

He is an influential industrial designer known for creating many of the most iconic sneakers in the Air Jordan series.

Nike

This is a global footwear and apparel corporation that manufactures and distributes the Air Jordan brand.

The details

The shoe incorporates the signature patent leather mudguard, which Hatfield chose after observing the material on Japanese baseball cleats, alongside a carbon fiber plate in the midsole to prevent excessive flexing. This release follows a recent trend of collaboration, including a partnership with Comme des Garçons that introduced new versions in September 2026.

Timeline

  1. The Air Jordan 11 made its debut in 1995.

  2. The Space Jam colorway was released to consumers in December 2000.

  3. An original film-worn pair sold for $176,000 at auction in 2021.

  4. The Air Jordan 11 collaborative debut occurred in September 2026.

  5. The Air Jordan 11 Low Space Jam released the week of September 28, 2026.

Season Trajectory

This release continues the legacy of the Air Jordan 11, which first gained fame on the court during the 1995 Eastern Conference Finals. It mirrors a broader trend of brands capitalizing on long-term historical milestones to sustain interest in retro-inspired footwear models.

Collectors and fans should note that this launch represents a new configuration of a high-value heritage aesthetic. The release date of the week of September 28, 2026, marks the specific window for consumers to access this latest variation of the Air Jordan 11.

The takeaway

The Space Jam colorway remains one of the most significant aesthetics in basketball footwear history due to its connection to film and professional sports. Fans looking to acquire new releases should monitor official brand launch calendars to ensure timely access.

Further reading

Explore more about the history of the sport in the Basketball section.

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Is now a good time to spend significant money on limited-edition sneakers?