About Jordan Brand Basketball
Jordan Brand has defined basketball culture since 1984, creating iconic performance shoes worn by Michael Jordan and today's NBA elite. The brand combines heritage design with cutting-edge technologies like Formula 23 foam and Flight Plate systems.
Current Jordan roster includes Luka Dončić, Jayson Tatum, Zion Williamson, and more. Each signature line is engineered for explosive performance with premium materials and the legendary Jumpman legacy.
From the flagship Air Jordan 38 to position-specific models like the Luka 3, Jordan Brand delivers elite performance for serious hoopers who demand both style and substance.
Popular Jordan Basketball Shoes 2025
Air Jordan 38
Best for: All positions, Elite players
The flagship Jordan combines Formula 23 foam with revolutionary traction for explosive responsiveness.
- Formula 23 foam cushioning
- Leno-Weave upper
- Ground-breaking traction
- Lightweight build
Jordan Luka 3
Best for: Guards, Step-back specialists
Luka's signature shoe engineered for his unique step-back game with Formula 23 foam.
- Formula 23 cushioning
- IsoPlate technology
- Step-back traction
- Supportive structure
Air Jordan 1 Retro High
Best for: Style & casual play
The iconic silhouette that started it all with premium leather and classic design.
- Premium leather upper
- Air-Sole cushioning
- High-top design
- Timeless colorways
Air Jordan 37
Best for: Explosive players, All-around
Previous flagship with Formula 23 and Eclipse Plate 2.0 for elite performance.
- Formula 23 foam
- Leno-Weave upper
- Eclipse Plate 2.0
- Data-informed traction
Jordan Basketball Technologies
Formula 23 Foam
Proprietary cushioning combining lightweight responsiveness with impact protection for explosive energy return.
Flight Plate
Carbon fiber or TPU plate that provides structure and snap for quick movements and explosive jumps.
Leno-Weave
Advanced woven upper material offering durability, support, and breathability in a lightweight package.
Eclipse Plate
Second-generation plate system for improved energy return and stability during cuts and jumps.
Jordan Basketball Price Tiers
Mid-Range ($120-$150)
Models: Jordan Luka 3, Jordan One Take 5
Excellent performance with proven technologies for serious players.
Premium ($150-$200+)
Models: Air Jordan 38, Jordan 37, Jordan Tatum 2
Latest innovations with premium materials. Flagship performance.
Retro ($140-$250+)
Models: Jordan 1, 4, 11, 13 Retros
Heritage designs with classic performance. Limited releases command premium prices.
Jordan Basketball Shoes: Pros & Cons
Pros
- Formula 23 foam offers elite responsiveness
- Premium materials and build quality
- Iconic designs and colorways
- Strong ankle support systems
- Heritage and cultural significance
- Excellent traction patterns
- Wide signature athlete roster
Cons
- Premium pricing ($160-$200+)
- Some models run narrow
- Limited availability on popular colorways
- Retros can be expensive
- Break-in period on some models
- Not as many budget options as Nike
Frequently Asked Questions
Best Jordan basketball shoes: Air Jordan 38 (flagship), Jordan Luka 3 (guards), Jordan Tatum 2 (wings), Jordan Zion 3 (power forwards). All feature Formula 23 foam for responsive cushioning and premium traction patterns.
Formula 23 is Jordan Brand's proprietary foam cushioning that combines lightweight responsiveness with impact protection. Featured in Jordan 38, Luka 3, and other signature models for explosive energy return.
Jordan 38 fits true to size with moderate width. Jordan Luka 3 runs slightly narrow. Jordan Zion 3 has a roomier fit. Some models available in wide sizes. Always check specific model reviews for fit.
Most Jordan basketball shoes run true to size but slightly narrow. Jordan 38: true to size. Luka 3: narrow, go up 0.5 for wide feet. Tatum 2: true to size. Zion 3: runs slightly big. Check model-specific reviews.
Yes! Jordan Retros like the 4, 5, 11, 12, and 13 were designed for basketball. The 11 and 13 are particularly popular for gameplay. While modern shoes have newer tech, retros offer excellent support and traction.
Jordan Brand is a subsidiary of Nike with its own design team. Jordan shoes use Formula 23 foam vs Nike's Zoom Air/ZoomX. Jordan focuses on premium materials and heritage design. Both offer elite performance.