Jordan 11 “Cool Grey” (2021)

Although inherently compelling, the sneaker enjoys a rich history that has catapulted its importance and popularity to new heights over the last 20 years. Debuted in March 2001, the “Cool Grey” Jordans have been mistaken as an original colorway of Tinker Hatfield’s design from 1995. An instant hit, dozens of local media outlets across the U.S.A. reported on the pair’s in-store releases; the television channel, TLC, even investigated the growing consumer base seen after Michael Jordan’s second retirement from the NBA. As part of its “Buy-ology” series, the Discovery, Inc,-owned network filmed the “Cool Grey” 11 launches at NikeTown Chicago in 2001.

The latest version of the 20-year-old AJ 11 delivers a “remastered” version of Tinker Hatfield’s ninth design for Michael Jordan. In comparison to the 2010 retro, the sneaker’s overall shape and height is much closer to 2001’s Cool Grey 11s. Neutral-colored nubuck still covers most of the upper, while glossy patent leather enters the mix by way of the iconic curved mudguard first seen 26 years ago. Laces and branding on the tongue, lateral heel, and spine deviate from the all-grey arrangement in favor of stark “White” contrast. Underfoot a semi-translucent icy blue outsole arguably steals the spotlight and addresses the yellowing that has plagued both pairs from 2001 and 2010.