Jordan Vs Air Jordan: A Comprehensive Comparison
When it comes to the world of sneakers and sportswear, the names Jordan and Air Jordan are iconic brands that are synonymous with innovation, style and quality. Michael Jordan, the legendary basketball superstar, has been the inspiration behind these two brands. While the names may sound similar, there are several differences between Jordan and Air Jordan that set them apart from each other. In this article, we will provide a comprehensive comparison of the two brands, highlighting their features and key differences.
Jordan
Jordan is a brand established by Nike in 1984 that is named after Michael Jordan. It is known to produce basketball sneakers that are designed for professional athletes as well as casual wear. The brand has become very popular due to its innovative designs, quality and comfort.
One of the defining features of Jordan sneakers is their design. Compared to other basketball shoes, Jordan sneakers stand out due to their unique and slick design. These sneakers come in a variety of styles, which are meant to cater to different preferences.
Another feature that sets Jordan apart from others is its diverse range of materials. Jordan uses high-quality leather, suede and woven fabrics which contribute to the durability and reliability of their products. Unlike other brands, Jordan products are handcrafted which gives them an edge in terms of quality and attention to detail.
What makes Jordan a popular choice with professional athletes is its compatibility with various court surfaces. It is designed to provide maximum traction and support, which is important for a high-performance athlete. The special design of Jordan sneakers helps reduce the risk of ankle injuries, which is a common occurrence in basketball.
Air Jordan
Air Jordan, also known as AJ, is a sub-brand of Jordan that focuses on performance basketball shoes. AJ was first introduced in 1985 and since then has gained immense popularity, especially among basketball players.
The key feature of the Air Jordan line is the revolutionary cushioning technology introduced in the sneakers. The special air cushioning units located in the midsole of the sneakers provide additional support and comfort to the feet. The technology used in Air Jordan shoes had never been used in basketball shoes before, and as such, it provided competitive advantages to basketball players.
The design of Air Jordan sneakers is also another significant feature. Like Jordan, they come in a variety of styles, but what is distinctive about Air Jordan is that the design elements are created based on Jordan’s preferences. Nearly all Air Jordan sneakers have the iconic Jumpman logo, which represents Jordan’s signature jump shot pose.
One of the most recent advancements in Air Jordan sneaker technology is the flywire technology. The flywire technology integrates reinforcement cables within the sneakers, which provides increased support, stability and flexibility.
Comparison between Jordan and Air Jordan
While Jordan and Air Jordan are both basketball shoes and are designed for high-performance athletes, there are several differences between them. Here are some of the significant differences:
Cushioning
One of the most significant differences between Jordan and Air Jordan is the air cushioning technology that is exclusive to Air Jordan. Jordan, on the other hand, has a standard EVA foam cushioning.
Design
When it comes to design, Jordan sneakers are primarily designed to appeal to players and fans of the sport, while Air Jordan is designed to appeal to fashion enthusiasts. While Air Jordans are available in a range of colors and designs, they are usually produced in limited editions, making them more exclusive and desirable to collectors.
Material
When it comes to the materials used in production, both Jordan and Air Jordan use high-quality fabrics. However, Air Jordans often use innovative materials such as carbon fiber and flywire technology.
Price
Generally, Air Jordan sneakers are more expensive than Jordan sneakers. The fact that they are produced in limited editions, the cost of the air cushioning technology, and the advanced technology incorporated, contribute to their high prices.
Fit
Both Jordan and Air Jordan sneakers are designed to fit true to size. However, some models of Air Jordan sneakers may require time for break-in, which may cause discomfort initially.
Conclusion
Both Jordan and Air Jordan are legendary brands known for their unique designs, quality, and innovation. While they are both geared towards high-performance basketball players, they cater to different audiences. Jordan is more focused on professional athletes, while Air Jordan is designed to cater to both professional athletes and fashion enthusiasts. Overall, the main differences between the two brands boil down to technology, exclusivity, and price.
In conclusion, investing in a pair of basketball sneakers from either Jordan or Air Jordan would be worth your money if you are looking for high-quality, innovative, and stylish sportswear products.