In an attempt to help professional athletes in their career and promote its brand, Nike signed contracts with top sportsmen in the 80’s. One of these was Michael Jordan, the best basketball player in history. This partnership led to the creation of the Jordan line, to which, Jordan Sneakers were added in 1985.

The first Jordan sneaker, the Air Jordan 1, was released in 1985, being received very well by the basketball fans all over the world. The blue and back or blue and white sneakers became a very common wear for children all over America.

The Air Jordan 2 sneakers issued in 1986 were manufactured mostly in Italy. A distinct trait of this pair was that the famous “winged basketball” logo, present on the back area of the Air Jordan 1, was model moved to the top of the tongue.

Air Jordan Sneaker Of course, the line didn’t stop at these two Jordan sneakers models. The latest model is the Air Jordan 20, launched on 19 February 2005. Interesting design features include a "halo" encircling the ankle and a laser-engraved vamp with dozens of symbols engraved in the vamp.

Nike is preparing a new model, Air Jordan 21 sneaker, which will hopefully be launched this year.

Here’s what Nike has to say about Air Jordans:

"The history of flight. The man that changed the game and the shoes that bear his name."

"We all dream of flight. Releasing ourselves from the shackles of gravity to soar up into the blue. A dream that is embodied by Michael Jordan – not only through his transcendent game, but the rarest of abilities to rise above all challenges in life. And so his namesake Air Jordans become more than just shoes, but an ongoing legacy to the potential that lies within all of us to fly"

Here's a lit of all the Air Jordans that were released over the years:

Air Jordan I - 1985
Air Jordan II - 1986
Air Jordan III - 1988

To find a good pair for yourself, take a look at this selection of Jordan sneakers at Amazon.com.