Air Jordan 12 Retro review

Who should buy the Air Jordan 12 Retro

The Air Jordan 12 Retro is a solid choice if:

• A shoe that takes less time and effort to pair with various outfits is what you prefer.
• You are after a lightweight basketball shoe that also offers a well-fitting experience.
• You are looking for a shoe that locks your heel in place to prevent wobbles and slippage.

Who should not buy the Air Jordan 12 Retro

Looks past the Air Jordan 12 Retro if a basketball shoe that offers comfort on day one is what you prefer. You might want to take a look at the Jordan Why Not Zer0.4. Also, folks with busy lifestyles might have to look elsewhere as this shoe requires frequent cleaning. That said, the Black/Altitude Green Air Jordan 13 Retro might fit the bill.

Cushioned and grippy

When it comes to performance, players are saying that you just can’t go wrong with these basketball shoes. It is a legit hoop shoe and is one of the most playable models out of the retro Air Jordan collection, thanks to its well-cushioned platform and reliable on-court grip.

The Air Jordan 12 Retro features a full-length Zoom Air bag that offers lightweight cushioning. The Zoom Air unit is embedded in a Phylon carrier to keep the feet completely comfortable. A carbon fiber spring plate enhances responsiveness.

These retro Air Jordan basketball shoes have a durable rubber outsole that features a herringbone traction pattern for increased grip on any surface. Some players remark that the traction works perfectly fine, although occasional wipes are needed when playing on dusty courts.

A well-fitting experience

Aside from enhancing the responsiveness of the Zoom Air unit, the carbon fiber shank plate also offers ideal support when performing medial and lateral movements. These retro Air Jordan basketball shoes also feature a quick lacing system that secures the foot firmly into the footbed.

Furthermore, a few owners reported that this basketball shoe fits like a glove while the majority of the reviewers are asserting that the Air Jordan Retro XII is the most comfortable model out of all the Air Jordan retros.

Built like a tank

Depending on the colorway, the Air Jordan XII Retro’s upper is either made of leather or supple suede. Several wearers declare that these Air Jordan basketball shoes are quite durable. They claim that it is built like a tank, thanks to its upper that has been adorned with overlays to enhance its sturdiness.

Also, a good number of owners are pleased with the quality of these retro Jordan basketball shoes while a few users are surprised that this basketball shoe feels light during play. Moreover, nearly all users observe that the shoe’s high-top collar delivers excellent support and lockdown. 

Eye-catching elegance

Several wearers lauded the Air Jordan 12 Retro for its stylish design. According to them, it is one of the best-looking Air Jordans and can be worn with just about anything. Similar to Michael’s very own style, the Air Jordan 12’s design expresses striking elegance.

These basketball shoes take inspiration from the Japanese rising sun flag called Nisshoki and a women’s dress cleat from the 19th century. The overlays feature a lizard print design while stitching on the upper resembles sun rays. Completing the shoe’s signature look is the unique “TWO 3” stitched on the tongue. With its iconic silhouette and the narrative behind it, the Air Jordan Retro 12 has transcended the hardwood and has become a streetwear staple.

Profile of the Air Jordan 12 Retro

In the face of adversity, Michael Jordan put up a heroic performance en route to his fifth NBA Championship when he was able to lead his Chicago Bulls to a crucial Game 5 win against the Utah Jazz in the 1997 NBA Finals. He finished the game with 38 points, seven rebounds, and five assists while suffering from a 103-degree fever.

Famed as the “Flu Game” shoe, the Air Jordan XII Retro has become an all-time favorite among sneakerheads and players alike. Its superior construction has also earned it the reputation of being one the most durable Air Jordans ever made.

These classic Air Jordan basketball shoes are made of premium synthetic leather that offers a luxurious look. It features a carbon fiber shank that increases responsiveness while a full-length Air sole unit cushions your every step.

Special Colorways of the Air Jordan 12 Retro

The five original colorways of the Air Jordan 12 are White/Black-Taxi, White/Varsity Red-Black, Obsidian/White-French Blue, Black/Varsity Red, and Black/Varsity Red-White-Metallic Silver.

Since being retroed in 2003, 2009, and 2016, these Air Jordan basketball shoes have reached over 20 colorways including popular ones such as Nubuck, Flu Game, Bordeaux, Taxi, Obsidian, French Blue, Playoff, Rising Sun, Wings, Wolf Grey, and a women’s edition called UNC.