There are a handful of reasons why the “Aqua” colorway of the Air Jordan VIII is one of the most hyped basketball sneakers ever released, but in the end it probably comes down to several factors. One is rarity. Michael Jordan wore these sneakers just once on the court—in the 1993 NBA All-Star Game—and since the initial launch that same year, we’ve seen it re-released only once.
The other reason is the colorway. This definitely rang true in ’93, however, even now few Air Jordan silhouettes sport colors so far removed from what Jordan wore on the court with the Chicago Bulls.
That’s part of the fun, though, and the fact that it was the Air Jordan VIII that donned the aqua made sense. Among the line’s first 14 shoes, perhaps no Air Jordan is more critiqued than this one and yet at the same time that eccentric aspect is what inspires so much loyalty. Famed Jordan collector Mark Bostic (@JumpmanBostic) isn’t the only fan that considers the Jordan VIII the best Jordan sneaker ever. A unique logo, a rugged look, and straps across the upper gave the VIII an entirely different appearance in a series often celebrated for its streamlined silhouettes.
Without his comeback in the spring of ‘95, the Air Jordan VIII would’ve been the last sneaker Michael Jordan ever played in. Considering the way he ended it, with a record 41 points per game in the NBA Finals against Charles Barkley and the Phoenix Suns, that distinction would’ve turned this shoe into a sensation. As for the “Aqua” edition, it could’ve become one of the 10 greatest Air Jordans ever released.
Now for the first time in eight years, the “Aqua” VIII is back and is releasing on Black Friday at Champs Sports. As part of the newest Game Plan collection, everything from slides to beanies to hoodies will accompany the drop, so get fresh for the winter.
Check the store locator at ChampsSports.com to find your nearest retailer and cop the collection today before the sneakers drop on Black Friday.
Tees/Hoodies
Slides/Sneakers
Accessories
