Behind the Design: Air Jordan 11 Low 'Bred'

Some sneakers don’t just represent moments—they define them. The Air Jordan 11 is one of those silhouettes. First debuted as a player exclusive (PE) that Michael Jordan wore during his 1996 championship run, the Air Jordan 11 Low 'Bred' blends basketball history with modern-day appeal. Now, in 2025, Jordan Brand is bringing it back for its first public release. In this article, we take a look back at the origins of the Air Jordan 11 and explore what makes this release a special one.

History of the Air Jordan 11

The Air Jordan 11's design followed the Air Jordan 10's simplistic approach but added new elements that took the shoe to new heights. Designed by the legendary Tinker Hatfield, the Air Jordan 11 features the same minimalist paneling that started on the Air Jordan 9 but includes new firsts never seen on the Air Jordan line. The first new addition was patent leather, a hallmark of the Air Jordan 11's design. This was incorporated into the design from a request from Michael Jordan himself, who wanted a basketball shoe that had a shine to it. The second new addition was the use of a full-length carbon fiber plate. Hatfield incorporated this into the design after noticing that some performance shoes were too flexible, causing players to over-flex. 

The Air Jordan 11 went on to debut in 1995 for $125 USD. Its debut designs included the now iconic ‘Concord,’ ‘Columbia,’ and ‘Bred’ colorways. The Air Jordan 11's design also reflects the era in which it was released. The late 1990s were a time of innovation and experimentation in the sneaker industry, and the Air Jordan 11 was at the forefront of this movement. This can also be seen in the lesser-known IE version of the shoe, which was released in 1996. The Air Jordan 11 IE was a low-top variant that was designed with lightweight mesh that would help with breathability during the summer. Although the IE version did not reach the same fame as the original Air Jordan 11, its mesh design inspired future footwear design.

Behind the Design: Air Jordan 11 Low 'Bred'

The Air Jordan 11 Low 'Bred' brings a warm-weather twist to a cold-blooded classic. Staying true to the OG blueprint, it features a black ballistic mesh upper, glossy black patent leather mudguard, and a crisp white midsole for contrast. Underfoot, that signature Varsity Red translucent outsole brings heat, both in look and in legacy. But what truly sets this release apart is its historical accuracy—a faithful recreation of the PE that Jordan wore during the 1996 championship run.

Whether you’re after the nostalgia or the clean, iconic style, the Air Jordan 11 Low 'Bred' delivers. It’s a shoe that feels just as good now as it did in a championship tunnel. The Air Jordan 11 Low 'Bred' isn’t just a seasonal favorite—it’s a statement, a piece of history, and a tribute to greatness. As a re-creation of one of the most legendary PEs in Jordan's history, this release cements itself as a must-have for collectors and fans alike. The Air Jordan 11 Low 'Bred' releases on April 26, 2025, and you can find your pair on KICKS CREW.