Air Jordan 13 Retro review

Who should buy the Air Jordan 13 Retro

The Air Jordan 13 Retro might benefit you if:

• You are after a retro basketball shoe that offers a cozy underfoot experience. 
• A shoe that does not take much effort in pairing with various getups is what you prefer. 
• You are after a shoe with enough rearfoot support to prevent unwanted ankle bending. 

Who should not buy the Air Jordan 13 Retro

The Air Jordan 13 Retro might not be for you if a shoe that could stay undamaged for a long time is what you are after. You might be better off with Air Jordan 17 Retro. Also, players who prefer a well-ventilated basketball shoe may have to look elsewhere. The Air Jordan 11 Retro is a solid alternative. 

Pillow for your feet

To provide enhanced underfoot comfort, the Air Jordan 13 Retro features a full-length Phylon midsole with encapsulated forefoot and heel Zoom Air bags. This low-to-the-ground cushioning setup offers remarkable responsiveness so you can outpace your defenders and cruise to the rim.

That said, almost all users are commenting that these Air Jordan basketball shoes are extremely comfortable to wear. They claim that these retros feel like pillows on their feet.

Incredible on-court grip

The Air Jordan Retro 13 has a durable rubber outsole with strategically placed pods that maximize flexibility and traction on a variety of surfaces.

Also, some players observed that this retro basketball shoe provides an incredible outdoor and indoor on-court grip. 

It fits perfectly

These retro basketball shoes fit perfectly, a good number of players declare. They recommend going true to size.

The Air Jordan 13 Retro provides tons of support

These retro Air Jordan basketball shoes feature a hidden lacing system that helps lock the foot down. A carbon fiber midfoot shank plate enhances torsional rigidity while its high-top collar provides a good amount of ankle support and structure that a lot of players appreciate.

Adequate court feel

It has been reported that the low-profile ride of this retro basketball companion offers a better court feel than the Air Jordan 12 Retro.

Neat and gorgeous

When presented with the original design concept, Michael Jordan was quite surprised with what Tinker Hatfield had in store for him.

"He chuckled," Hatfield recounts. "Then there was a tear in his eye. ‘How did you know that’s what they called me? says Jordan. ‘That’s what they called me back in Wilmington.’" Hatfield continued, "it was a fortunate convergence–it was extra meaningful."

The Air Jordan 13 Retro’s unique silhouette perfectly captures Michael Jordan’s “Black Cat” alter ego. Its design includes classic details such as quilted side panels, holographic cat eyes, and a sole fashioned after a black panther’s paw.

These retro Air Jordan basketball shoes have a distinctly unique design that quickly made them a fan favorite. Its on-court history also makes it a must-cop for Air Jordan collectors.

Also, according to most owners, the Air Jordan Retro 13 is a beautiful shoe with a neat-looking design that could easily match almost all outfits. 

Profile of the Air Jordan 13 Retro

During his early days in Wilmington, Michael earned the nickname of “Black Cat” for his creative dexterity and ability to outmaneuver his opponents. He consistently showed his unbelievable deftness en route to his sixth-and-final NBA title.

Fashioned after a black panther, the Air Jordan 13 draws inspiration from his cat-like reflexes and predatory instincts on the court. 

These retro Air Jordan basketball shoes honor the original with classic design details and court-inspired cushioning.

For sturdiness and comfort

The Air Jordan 13 Retro’s upper is made of a combination of either full-grain leather, synthetic leather, textile, or supple suede depending on the colorway. These materials offer enhanced durability and long-lasting comfort.

Special Colorways of the Air Jordan 13 Retro

The Air Jordan 13 was one of the last models Michael Jordan wore on the court during what would become his last season with the Chicago Bulls. He would retire for a second time as a champion, grabbing his sixth NBA title and finishing off a second three-peat.

During its original 1997 release, the Air Jordan 13 was available in seven colorways (five high-tops and two low-tops) that include the Black Toe, Playoff, and Black/True Red.

In 2004, these basketball shoes had their initial retro run. High- and low-tops were made available for both men and women. At the end of its run, a total of 12 different pairs were launched, including the limited edition Altitude Green colorway.

After its first retro run, Jordan Brand would go on and retro these basketball shoes a few more times. Popular colorways include the Bin23, Grey Toe, Quai54, and Doernbecher.

Jordan Brand also released a commemorative pair of the Air Jordan 13 Retro for Ray Allen for breaking the all-time three-point record.