The release of the Air Jordan 12 led to some of the most unforgettable moments in Michael Jordan and sneaker history. From the Flu Game to improved Air technology, the shoe’s background consists of memorable times that we often forget correlates with this specific silhouette. As new renditions of the silhouette continue to grow, we pay tribute to the 12 as it introduces its latest version in celebration of Super Bowl Sunday. 

Originally released in 1996, the shoe was introduced to the public in a white, black, and taxi colorway. But once the anticipation grew, the shoe was officially within the publics’ grasp in 1997. The first public release consisted of five colorways that included different Varsity Red combinations; drawing inspiration from the Japanese flag. The linework seen along the side panels of the shoes resembles the rays of the sun seen within the flag. With that in mind, the white and Varsity Red combination was most notable on foot when Michael Jordan wore them on the court. The bright red composition paired with an even brighter white leather was hard to miss when watching Jordan on television. The popularity grew even more as it was worn by other basketball athletes from Scottie Pippen to Bill Wennington.

Its growing popularity grew even more as it was the first Jordan model to implement new Air Zoom technology from the toe to heel providing a reactive and cushioned experience with each step. Along with the new technology, the 12 also was the first-ever sneaker to begin the official brand of Jordan. The sneaker doesn’t showcase the iconic Swoosh within its design as it started to transition to the Jordan Brand. Though these contributed to its rising popularity, the true kicker was during the 1997 game against the Utah Jazz. Michael Jordan scored 38 points during this game while experiencing flu-like symptoms eventually claiming victory while wearing the 12’s. Because of this moment in basketball history, the colorway black and Varsity Red was forever embedded in the fan’s mind as the ‘Flu Game’ becoming the most popular colorway within its lineup. To learn more about Michael Jordan’s history and the famous Flu Game, click here to read more. 

When you think it couldn’t get more memorable, the Retro release of the 12 set standards for future releases as it became the first-ever shoe to receive an ‘online exclusive’ in 2004. Those who joined the Jordan Brand’s online group were mailed a personal URL code to purchase the exclusive designs. The power of the internet was fairly new thus Nike wasn’t prepared for the great influx of members to go on the site - ultimately crashing the page. It came back within time and because of its impressive feedback, the beginning of online releases started. 

As we move to the present day, the beloved model receives its newest colorway addition coinciding with the 2021 Super Bowl. Taking place in Florida, the Kansas City Chiefs and Tampa Bay Buccaneers play to obtain the championship title. Releasing on Saturday, February 6th the Air Jordan 12 Retro Low SE ‘Super Bowl’ will be available to the public. Its composition is truly one of a kind as it utilizes a canvas base with a snake-skin textured mudguard adding protection with each step. The Varsity Red colorway can be seen with the overlays as a contrasting confetti patterned fabric liner decorates the sock and inner lining. To commemorate the event a pull-tab with the area code ‘813’ references Tampa Bay’s area code,  paying homage to the Super Bowl LV’s location. To tie everything together, we notice intricate gold metal fixings that accent the color palette while the signature Air Zoom unit supplies heel to toe cushioning. The latest design combines style, comfort, and memorabilia, making it unique and highly sought-after by sneaker enthusiasts. 

Grab a more detailed look at the Air Jordan 12 Retro Low SE ‘Super Bowl’ above. Ready to secure your pair? Follow the instructions below to enter the draw and to shop all of our other current releases. 

Feature Release - Saturday, February 6th

• Visit the “Releases” page on our site.
• Click your size and enter your information.
• You will be notified the night prior if your entry is granted.

Our Feature Release Draw ends Friday, 2/5, at 4 p.m. PST. All winners will receive notice the night before the official launch date if they have won.