Air Jordan 2
The Air Jordan 2 is Michael Jordan’s second signature model and the Jordan that, in 1986, chose luxury over sporty toughness. It was made in Italy, has no Swoosh on the side and looks more like a smart leather shoe than a basketball shoe as a result. Within Air Jordan the 2 stayed underrated for a long time, but recent retros and collaborations have put it firmly back in the spotlight.
The history of the Air Jordan 2
After the success of the Air Jordan 1, Nike wanted a second model that would work on the court and with a suit. Peter Moore teamed up with Bruce Kilgore, the designer of the Air Force 1. According to Nike, the shoe was produced in Italy, using Italian leather and panels of faux lizard skin.
What stood out was what was missing: the Air Jordan 2 was the first Nike shoe without a visible Swoosh. The ‘Wings’ logo moved to the tongue, so the line had to become recognisable on its own. The original versions in white with red or white with black came out in 1986; years later came retros and a low version.
Design and features
The upper is made of smooth leather with a scaled pattern on the side and toe, plus a moulded heel piece that wraps the back of the foot. The sole contains Air cushioning, although it stays hidden. The high version reaches just above the ankle; the Low has the same lines but wears lighter.
Popular Air Jordan 2 colorways
On WOOVIN these versions are getting the most attention right now:
- Jordan 2 Retro J Balvin – light blue with white and colourful details, made with the Colombian artist.
- Jordan 2 Retro OG ‘Chicago’ (2022) (W) – white leather with red and black, as in 1986.
- Jordan 2 Retro Low ‘UNC to Chicago’ (W) – white with light blue and red, a nod to Jordan’s university and his first pro team.
- Jordan 2 Retro SP Union ‘Grey Fog’ – light grey with red accents, from the collaboration with Union LA.
- Jordan 2 Retro Low SP Off-White ‘Black Blue’ – black with blue and grey, a low version by Off-White.
Air Jordan 2 or Air Jordan 1: how do they differ?
The 1 is a simple basketball shoe with a large Swoosh and a thin sole. The 2 is smoother and more closed in shape, with a moulded heel, more padding and no Swoosh. If you want the classic basketball look, the 1 is the better fit; if you are after a Jordan that looks a little more refined, the 2 is a less obvious choice. From there, the Air Jordan 3 leads you to the work of Tinker Hatfield.
How does the Air Jordan 2 fit?
Major retailers describe the Air Jordan 2 as true to size, just like the Jordan 1. You can therefore order your usual Nike size. The sole is fairly wide, so narrow feet sometimes feel a bit of room; lacing tighter usually solves that. With wide feet the forefoot can feel snug, and half a size up then gives more comfort.
Buy the Air Jordan 2 at WOOVIN
At WOOVIN you will find the Air Jordan 2 in high and low versions, from the original Chicago colours to collaborations with Off-White, Union LA and J Balvin. For the collabs, the offer comes from verified stores that confirm the authenticity of every pair. Choose the High for the original shape and the Low if you want a lighter summer sneaker.
