Jordan fans, the wait is over! The iconic Air Jordan 9 "Olive" is making its much-anticipated return on November 9, 2024. Originally launched in 1993, this beloved sneaker marks a unique chapter in Jordan Brand history as it debuted when Michael Jordan temporarily stepped away from basketball to pursue baseball. This year’s release pays homage to the original design, bringing back a classic look and feel that Jordan enthusiasts have been waiting for.

A Brief History of the Air Jordan 9

The Air Jordan 9 holds a special place in sneaker history. Although Michael Jordan never wore this model on the court as a member of the Chicago Bulls, its design captures the essence of his global impact and stardom. Tinker Hatfield, the legendary designer behind many of Jordan’s iconic silhouettes, aimed to capture Jordan's worldwide influence, especially following his unforgettable 1992 “Dream Team” performance. The Air Jordan 9 features a globe emblem on the heel, symbolizing Jordan’s influence beyond basketball.

Over the years, Jordan Brand has reintroduced the “Olive” colourway multiple times but received mixed reviews. The first retro in 2002 was well-received for its close resemblance to the original, though the 2012 release had quality control issues that disappointed fans. In 2017, a “Winterized” version and in 2023, a unique “Aqua” colourway dropped which drew mixed reactions. Now, the upcoming release promises a return to the true-to-original Olive colourway fans have long been hoping for.

What to Expect from the 2024 Air Jordan 9 “Olive”

This latest iteration of the Air Jordan 9 "Olive" sticks to the timeless Black, Light Olive, and Varsity Red palette that made it a favourite in the first place. The upper features smooth black leather, complete with perforations that offer breathability and comfort. The light Olive suede overlays are seen on the mudguards, extending up to the ankle and heel, adding depth and contrast to the dark leather.

The pops of Varsity Red bring vibrancy to the otherwise muted palette, with red detailing on the tongue’s branding, the globe emblem on the heel, and the Jumpman logos on the midsole and outsole. Rounding out the design, the inner lining, midsole, and rubber outsole are black, ensuring the colour scheme is cohesive and balanced. This true-to-original release stays as close to the classic design as possible, capturing the same vibe that made the Air Jordan 9 “Olive” an iconic colourway in the Jordan lineup.

A Sneaker for True Jordan Fans

What makes the Air Jordan 9 “Olive” special is its timeless look and deep-rooted history. Although MJ never wore this model on the court with the Bulls, it’s still a unique symbol of his legacy, especially given its ties to his baseball days with the Binghamton Barons. The “Olive” colourway represents not just Michael Jordan’s versatility but also the global appeal of the Jordan brand. This full family sizing makes it a perfect choice for Jordan fans of all ages, and the classic colourway ensures it’s as stylish as ever.

Also, the Olive colourway has always been a fan favourite in the Air Jordan line, bringing a unique twist to classic silhouettes with earthy tones and stylish detailing. Some of the most hyped Olive releases include the Air Jordan 1 Retro Low OG x Travis Scott WMNS ‘Olive’ and the Jordan 1 Retro Low OG SP Travis Scott Medium Olive. Both Air Jordan x Travis Scott collaborations, these sneakers stand out with their signature reversed Swoosh and premium materials. The Travis Scott Women’s Olive features richer hues, giving it a bold, distinctive style that’s instantly recognizable, while the Medium Olive pairs soft Olive tones with black and white accents, creating a sleek look. These Olive colourways add variety to the Air Jordan lineup and capture the streetwear edge that Travis Scott brings to every design.

Wrap-Up: Don’t Miss Out!

The Air Jordan 9 “Olive” is set to be one of the most exciting retro releases of 2024. With its true-to-original design and full family sizing, this sneaker brings together nostalgia and style in one iconic package. Mark your calendars for November 9 and keep an eye out for it at trusted retail stores and at select Jordan Brandretailers.

If you’re looking for more classic and newer sneaker drops, don’t forget to check out Mad Kicks for an incredible lineup of sneakers that you won’t want to miss.