words // Luis Sanchez
Today's release of the 'Infrared 23' Air Jordan 2 Retro was more than just a tribute to the Air Jordan VI as part of their 23rd Anniversary. The vibrant Air Jordan II is also a celebration of one of Nike's most popular tones, Infrared.
The vibrant color first became widely popular throughout the early '90s over classics such as the Air Jordan VI of course, and none other than the Air Max 90 runner. We've seen the classic infrared hue go from just accenting shoes, to covering classics entirely such as the 'Infrared 23' Air Jordan VI released earlier this year.
Infrared might be most commonly recognized for its use over the Air Max 90 and the Air Jordan VI, but there's still plenty of both old and new models that have done the vibrant mix of orange and red justice. Check out the list below for a look at some of best sneakers to use infrared, and be sure to share your favorites in the comments.
10. Nike Air Max 90 - Black/Infrared
This modern take on the Air Max 90 provided fans with a remix of the iconic 'Infrared' colorway. The new look stayed true to the original with a mesh and suede build covered in black and infrared accents.
9. Nike Air Structure Triax
Although not an Infrared-heavy colorway, the original Air Structure Triax wouldn't really be as appealing without the subtle Infrared hits. Often overlooked by many, the Air Structure Triax probably features the most unique use of Infrared in comparison to other favorites.
8. Nike Air Trainer 1 - Infrared
Last year Nike Sportswear celebrated some of their most classic runners with cross-training models in familar running colorways. The pack included this Air Trainer 1 inspired by the timeless 'Infrared' Air Max 90.
7. Air Jordan 3 Retro - Infrared 23
This year's 23rd Anniversary celebration for the Air Jordan VI also included this fresh new take on the Air Jordan III. Undoubtedly one of the most popular Air Jordan models out there, the Air Jordan 3 borrowed the Air Jordan VI's most recognizable feature in the Infrared hue.
6. Air Jordan 6 Retro - Infrared 23
Definitely the most successful Infrared 23 release yet has to have been this all new Air Jordan 6 Retro. The debut model in the Infrared 23 Collection was released as part of All-Star Weekend earlier this year, celebrating the iconic model rocked by MJ as he captured his first-ever NBA title.
5. atmos x Nike Air Max 90
Longtime Nike collaborators atmos raised the bar even further last year with this new take on the 'Infrared' Air Max 90. atmos kept the classic runner familar with hits of infrared in all the right places, working together perfectly with duck camo overlays and snakeskin Swoosh logos.
4. Air Jordan VI - White/Infrared
The recently reissued White/Infrared Air Jordan 6 Retro really needs no explanation. Just like its black-based counterpart, Infrared might not be as popular if these classics didn't exist. As previously mentioned, the Air Jordan VI was laced up by Michael as he captured his first ever NBA title back in 1991.
3. Nike Air Flight 89 High
Although not exactly recognized as "infrared,' the vibrant hue on this amazing Flight '89 High is close enough to make the cut. The use of the vibrant hue was perfectly executed on these, sprayed across the eyestay, collar lining and outsole. Although nearly impossible to find at this point, these definitely count as one of the best Air Flight '89 colorways as well.
2. Nike Air Max 90 - Infrared
If it wasn't for the Air Jordan VI's on-court significance, the Air Max 90 would have easily been number one on this list. The timeless TInker Hatfield runner has just as much to do with the success of Infrared as the Air Jordan VI, as it was released prior to the arrival of Michael's latest signature Air Jordan back in the early '90s.
1. Air Jordan VI - Black/Infrared
Standing tall at number one is an original Air Jordan model that's been nothing but appreciated in the 23 years since their original release. Sought after for many reasons including on-court history and their overall design, the Black/Infrared Air Jordan VI brought a level of flashiness to the NBA that had never been seen before. The Black/Infrared Air Jordan VI was on Michael's feet as he kicked off his dominance of the NBA in the '90s with his first-ever title with the Bulls.
