Verdict from 1 expert and 19 user reviews
10 reasons to buy
- Many are quick to comment that the Air Jordan 17 is one of their all-time favorite Jordans.
- Most owners are saying that these basketball shoes rank as one of the top five on-court performers out of the Air Jordan line.
- The shoes run true to size according to a tester.
- A handful of owners are pleased with the shoe’s premium build.
- The materials require minimal break-in time according to one tester.
- A few wearers love how these Air Jordan basketball shoes look. To them, it is just beautifully designed.
- The neoprene collar is extremely comfortable, a small number of users assert.
- A few players report that the support and lockdown are fantastic.
- One user declares that these basketball shoes are pretty durable and will last outdoors. Playes have the same comment about the retro Air Jordan XII.
- The cushioning feels great and is very responsive, more than a handful report.
3 reasons not to buy
- These Air Jordan basketball shoes are pretty narrow, several wearers observe.
- According to a few, the Air Jordan XVII Retro is quite uncomfortable to wear.
- Like the Air Jordan 33, at least one tester gripes that the heel cushioning feels stiff.
Bottom line
The Air Jordan 17 has a lot of great things going for it - traction, materials, support, lockdown, and cushioning. Although nothing particularly stands out, everything works near to perfection. Nearly all owners agree that these are one of the most court-ready sneakers from the Air Jordan line.
Buyers willing to shell out $250 will get a well-designed and great performing basketball sneaker in return.
Tip: see the best basketball shoes.
Good to know
In 2001, Michael Jordan surprised the world when he decided to grace the hardwood once again. At age 38, he was losing some of his athletic ability. As a result, Designer Wilson Smith III crafted a special Air Jordan basketball shoe to usher in his return.
During its original release, the Air Jordan XVII was the most expensive Air Jordan basketball shoe ever created. These innovative basketball sneakers boast a full-length shank plate, a TPU heel stabilizer, and the brand’s very first Tuned Air system.
Michael would make history once again while wearing his Air Jordan 17s. He became the oldest player to score 50+ points in a game, and he would also become the fourth player in the league’s history to record 30 thousand career points.
Cushion. The Air Jordan XVII Retro is equipped with a Nike Zoom Air bag at the forefoot and a blow-molded Air unit at the heel. Sitting on top of the air units is a full-length carbon fiber shank plate that offers increased responsiveness, impact absorption, and support.
Traction. These Air Jordan basketball shoes have a rubber outsole that features a golf course-inspired design. A herringbone traction pattern is used to provide maximum grip on any surface.
Length and Width. According to reviewers, the Air Jordan 17 Retro runs true to size but is narrow at the forefoot. Normal and narrow-footers will have little to no problems; however, wide-footers may experience some hot spots.
Lockdown. These retro Air Jordan basketball shoes feature a fully adjustable lacing system for a customized fit. Lace locks ensure midfoot lockdown while a TPU heel stabilizer prevents ankle rolls.
The Air Jordan XVII Retro’s upper is constructed with premium leather for enhanced support and durability. A mesh tongue and neoprene collar allow heat to escape for increased comfort.
Wilson Smith III took design cues from jazz music, a golf course, and an Aston Martin. The lace cover features music notes while the outsole mimics the aerial view of greens, sand traps, and fairways of a golf course. The shoe’s premium detailing was inspired by the luxury sports car.
The Air Jordan 17 comes in three different styles - the standard OG, the 17+, and the low. The original Air Jordan XVII is equipped with a heel “bumper” and removable lace cover/shroud. The Air Jordan XVII+ has the same silhouette except for a croc-skin panel on the heel. The low-top version features an extended dynamic fit sleeve. Both the AJ 17+ and AJ 17 Low does not come with the midfoot shroud.
The original Air Jordan 17 saw seven releases.
- Air Jordan 17 OG White/College Blue - Black
- Air Jordan 17 OG Black/Metallic Silver
- Air Jordan 17 OG White/Varsity Red - Charcoal
- Air Jordan 17+ OG White/Black - Metallic Copper - Sport Royal
- Air Jordan 17 OG Black/Metallic Silver Mule
- Air Jordan 17 OG White/Red Mule
- Air Jordan 17 OG White/Black Mule
Aside from these colorways, PEs were also created for Team Jordan athletes Ray Allen and Mike Bibby.
Air Jordan 17+ ‘Bulls’
While playing for the Washington Wizards, Michael scored his 30,000th career point against his former team. The ‘Bulls’ colorway is dressed in a predominantly black upper with gym red accents. A white outsole completes the Bulls-inspired theme.
Trophy Room X Air Jordan 17
Michael Jordan’s son Marcus and his Trophy Room Store released a limited edition AJ XVII. This collaborative sneaker features a regal combination of stoic black, elegant gold, and gray suede. The Trophy Room X Air Jordan 17 is limited to 4,500 pairs and comes with a custom t-shirt designed by Marcus.
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