Verdict from 5 experts and 100+ user reviews
6 reasons to buy
- Many Air Jordan 13 Retro owners are immensely satisfied with their purchase. They are asserting that this is one of the greatest shoes ever made and they highly recommend copping a pair.
- 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.
- The Air Jordan Retro 13 is a beautiful shoe according to most buyers. They are saying that it looks really clean and it can be matched with just about any outfit.
- These retro basketball shoes fit perfectly, a good number of wearers declare. They recommend going true to size.
- A lot of players appreciate the good amount of ankle support the high-top collar provides.
- These retro Air Jordan basketball shoes provide an incredible on-court grip, some players observe.
4 reasons not to buy
- Some purchasers are extremely disappointed with the Air Jordan 13 Retro’s poor craftsmanship. They are complaining that these retro basketball shoes have a lot of defects and are not worth its full retail price.
- The materials could be better, several Air Jordan 13 owners complain. They are saying that it creases and tears easily.
- The cushioning setup is not as good as other Air Jordan models, a tester gripes.
- These retro Air Jordan basketball shoes get pretty hot, most testers comment. There are no ventilation holes, and the materials are not that breathable.
Bottom line
Over the years, it seems that the Jordan Brand has been skimping on the quality of their retro releases. Cheaper and weaker materials are being used, there are more glue stains and scratches, and the shoe just does not line up symmetrically.
Performance-wise, the Air Jordan 13 Retro fares much better. Although the cushioning setup is simply adequate, its traction, support, lockdown, and fit are all on point. However, there are better basketball shoes such as the Harden Vol 3 and LeBron 16 that you can get for less.
Tip: see the best basketball shoes.
Good to know
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. It features an outsole molded after a panther's paw and an unconventional cat-like holographic eye. It also boasts of innovations such as forefoot and heel Zoom Air units and a carbon fiber plate.
These retro Air Jordan basketball shoes honor the original with classic design details and court-inspired cushioning
Cushion. The Air Jordan 13 Retro features a full-length Phylon midsole with encapsulated forefoot and heel Zoom Air bags that enhances underfoot comfort for supreme cushioning.
This low-to-the-ground cushioning setup offers remarkable responsiveness so you can outpace your defenders and cruise to the rim.
Traction. The Air Jordan Retro 13 has a durable rubber outsole with strategically placed pods that maximizes flexibility and traction on a variety of surfaces.
Length and Width. The Air Jordan XIII Retro reportedly runs true to size. When ordering, buyers are advised to go with their real size.
Lockdown. 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 added support and structure.
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.
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 it a fan favorite. Its on-court history also makes it a must-cop for Air Jordan collectors.
The Air Jordan 13 was one of the last models Michael Jordan wore on-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 its 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.
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