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Air Jordan 12 Release Dates
The Air Jordan 12 launched in 1997 and, while not as popular as its predecessor, became a cult classic over time. The 12 also marks the beginning of the Air Jordan line becoming its own brand under Nike. After returning to basketball from a brief hiatus in 1996, Michael Jordan followed up his fourth championship run with a back to back title in the AJ12. This championship would feature the notorious “Flu Game” in which a sick MJ would score 38 points to secure the victory and go up 3-2 against the Jazz in the NBA Finals.
The Air Jordan 12 is yet another iconic Tinker Hatfield design, inspired by Japan's “Rising Sun” flag, while the outsole features an updated carbon fiber plate, much like the AJ 11. Originally released in leather, the Air Jordan 12 has since seen multiple material changes to the upper, suede being one of the most common. The rope laces are secured by a lacing system equipped with metal lace loops at the top of the shoe that resemble what's used on hiking boots.
The Air Jordan 12, much like most Jordans past the AJ8, comes and goes. Do not expect the sneaker to release often, however when it does, stock numbers tend to be high. That being said, expect these sneakers to release on Nike's SNKRS app and website as well as retailers such as Foot Locker, JD Sports, and Dick's Sporting Goods. Smaller stores like Sneaker Politics and Social Status will likely have stock as well.
The Air Jordan 12 was originally released in 5 colorways: Taxi, French Blue, Black/Red, White/Red, and Black/White. By 2004, we'd see the release of low top AJ12s in Obsidian, Taxi, and a women's exclusive White/Pink colorway. Other notable motifs include a Carmelo Anthony themed Baby Blue and White, A tonal white pair with insoles referencing Japan's “Rising Sun” flag, and a special suede version of the original Black/Red pair with details commemorating Michael Jordan's Flu Game.
The Air Jordan 12 runs true-to-size. The inner sock liner molds to the foot to create a snug and secure fit from the heel to the ankle support. The sneaker also comes in a cleated golf version that fits just as well.
The Air Jordan 12 may restock on occasion. Nike's SNKRS app and website are primary sources for securing pairs. Large Air Jordan retailers like Champs, JD Sports, and Foot Locker may also have light restocks. Download the Sole Retriever app to receive any restock info on all of your favorite AJ 12s.
The Air Jordan 12 has only seen a handful of collaborations. The clothing brand Public School released a trio of tonal brown, olive, and burgundy pairs in 2017. A Ma Maniere put their signature touch on two pairs in black and white with maroon accents. Keeping true to its newfound golf connection, Eastside Golf has a pair themed after Georgia's red clay and of course Drake has two pairs of OVO 12s with stingray textured panelling along the midfoot to the toebox.
