The Air Jordan 18 Veterans Day Release
The Air Jordan 18 holds special significance to trainer heads because it symbolizes Michael Jordan's final moments as an NBA player. When MJ joined the Washington Wizards as a player, he signed a two-year contract. By the 2002-2003 season, Jordan's contract was nearing its end, and nothing indicated he would sign on for another season. A third retirement appeared to be imminent.
Along with the launch of the Air Jordan XVIII came a series of print ads and commercials that asked the memorable question, "What is Love?" to which Michael Jordan replies, "Love is playing every game like it's your last." Jordan was making his final bow, which meant the Air Jordan 18 would be the last trainer he wore on the court as a professional basketball player.
Original Air Jordan 18 Colourways
In February 2003, the Air Jordan 18 released the Black/Sport Royal colourway, which incorporated luxurious suede on the upper. White/Sport Royal and White/Varsity Red colourways with premium leather uppers followed.
The Jordan Brand also released two low-top versions and two AJ 18.5s, which shed the built-in lace shroud.
These player-exclusive sneakers made their debut when athlete Jimmy Butler wore them in honour of Veterans Day in 2017. The sneakers take inspiration from traditional, desert-themed camouflage, consisting of several different mottled colours across the sand-coloured upper. They also feature gold-coloured eyelet accents, P3 branding, and Jumpman logos across the lace cover. Like the other Air Jordan 18 Retro releases, the suede upper includes ankle flaps to provide ventilation and to keep the shoes cool and comfortable to wear. The Air Jordan 18 Retro also features black accents along the heel, with a leather tongue and black laces. Finally, the off-white partial gum sole and dark canvas ankle tie the look together. Zoom Air units and a Flight Speed plate in the middle of the sole also stand out.