Jordan 15 Retro 2017 Stealth

Upgrade Your Style with the Jordan 15 Retro Stealth 2017

The Air Jordan 15 was inspired by the X-15 jet, a rocket-powered aircraft capable of reaching hypersonic speeds and altitudes nearing outer space. Using the streamlined look of the X-15, the Air Jordan 15 had a sleek and pointed toe box. Other design elements included a hidden lace system, a combination of woven Kevlar and leather on the upper, and a large protruding tongue created to mimic Jordan's signature tongue-out face that was visible when he took flight.

With a theme that perfectly matched Jordan's style on the court and Tinker Hatfield behind the design, you'd think the Air Jordan 15 would be nothing less than a slam dunk—but it didn't turn out that way. Hatfield had designed every Air Jordan released since 1988 and, after 11 years, some questioned his continued inspiration.

The resulting sneaker was clunky and had a stiff, hard bottom that clicked on floors like a pair of dress shoes. And though they ran true to size, the bootie construction made them difficult to put on.

History of Air Jordan 15

In 1998, Michael Jordan led the Chicago Bulls to a triumphant championship win over the Utah Jazz, completing his second three-peat. It was a storybook ending to Jordan's illustrious career as a player.

With Jordan bowing out of basketball, many thought the Air Jordan would walk off into the sunset with His Airness, but the brand was entering a new phase. Earlier that year, the Air Jordan line became an independent subsidiary of Nike, and the Jordan Brand was founded with Michael Jordan as its CEO. Although MJ traded in his jersey and shorts for a suit, there were more sneakers to come from the brand. One year later, the Air Jordan 15 launched as the first sneaker Jordan didn't wear as an athlete—baseball included.

Jordan 15 Retro Stealth 2017

The Jordan Retro 15 Stealth hit the market on January 7, 2017. Like the original Jordan 15, which was released in 1999, this version takes its design inspiration from the X-15 jet and Michael Jordan's stealth style on the court. The Stealth colorway features all-black uppers made from woven Kevlar and full-grain leather. The ribbed heel panel features a subtle Jumpman logo accent, and the midsole features a dark grey geometric accent panel. One of the most distinctive features of the Air Jordan Black 15 Retro Stealth shoes is the tongue; it extends forward from the ankle, giving the shoe an exaggerated side profile. A bright red stripe runs down the heel of the Retro Stealth, adding an unexpected pop of color.