Your Guide to Buying Jordan 11

Air Jordans are the ultimate shoes for sneaker collectors. The first version debuted back in 1984 and became a big hit, despite being technically "outlawed" by the NBA for not having any white in them. They actually fined Jordan each time he wore them. Still, these shoes really took off, and Nike began releasing a new version every year. The Air Jordan 11 shoes are highly sought after since these were the first shoes Jordan wore after his comeback in 1996. He wore them while filming "Space Jam" as well. While these shoes are a great addition to any sneaker collection, you should first educate yourself and learn more about them before making any purchase.

Your Guide to Jordan 11 Shoe Sizes
Nike offers Air Jordan 11 shoes in various sizes, from youth to adult. When buying basketball shoes for yourself or someone else, the first consideration is obviously size. Nike has standard sizing for most of its shoes.

If you are unsure of your shoe size, there is an easy way to find it. Wear a pair of socks, and then stand on a piece of plain paper. Ask a friend to use a pencil to trace your heel and around your toes. Then, take a ruler and measure the length of your feet from the heel up to the longest part of your toe. This is your heel to toe measurement. It is best to do this in the afternoon, when your feet typically swell to their largest size.

Available Jordan 11 Styles
Although Michael Jordan created the 11th incarnation of his signature shoes as a formal-looking shoe, Nike actually released several different styles over the years. Aside from the classic white and black patent leather version, there was the white Columbia Jordan 11s, which Michael Jordan first wore in the 1996 NBA Playoffs, the first season he played after his initial retirement from basketball. The name came from the Columbia blue logo on the shoe, and this shoe featured a blue outsole. Aside from the original 1996 version, Nike brought back the style in 2001 and 2014. Nike also released several low-cut versions of the shoe.

Choosing Jordan 11 Designs
Air Jordan 11 shoes are available in several colors and designs. The most iconic of all these designs is the classic Concord shoe, which Jordan wore to Bull's games, despite the NBA levying fines for uniform code violations. This shoe featured a patent black leather stripe on the upper sole and an icy white sole. The patent leather detail added a formal feel to the shoe, and the singing group Boyz II Men actually wore these shoes with their tuxedos to the 1996 Grammy Awards. However, this shoe's most famous appearance was in the movie "Space Jam."

For those looking for shoes that can match almost any outfit, check out Jordan 11 Low shoes. These shoes come in a variety of colors and patterns, and you can wear a different pair depending on your mood or outfit. For example, the White/Varsity Maize-Assure version features a fun and funky green and yellow motif, while the Retro 11 Pink Snakeskin brings out your wild side.

Other Tips for Buying Jordan 11 Shoes
Aside from choosing the right size, style, and color, there are a few other tips to remember when buying Jordan 11 shoes. First is condition. Since Nike only releases certain Jordan 11 shoes during certain times, you most likely have to purchase these shoes from a reseller. Make sure you understand the different terms these sellers use when describing the shoe. For example, DS or "Deadstock," refers to shoes that are completely new out of the box and never worn, while VNDS or "Very Near Deadstock," models have slight wearing, but are very close to new. Before you buy any collector's shoes, make sure you consult a current price guide to ensure you are paying the right amount.