Photo Credit: Nike & Jumpman23

Air Jordan 2009 - A New Numbering Scheme

The Air Jordan 2009's predecessor, the Air Jordan XXIII (23) was the last Air Jordan sneaker to use roman numerals. Jordan Brand decided that the first 23 Air Jordan sneakers would use the number scheme (Air Jordan I to Air Jordan XXIII) in order to honor Michael Jordan's number. The new numbering scheme used by Jordan Brand, starting with Air Jordan 2009, used the year number that the sneaker was released.

Jason Mayden's First Air Jordan

Jason Mayden, Jordan Brand's Senior Footwear Designer was chosen to design the Air Jordan 2009. Jason Mayden decided to incorporate Articulated Propulsion Technology (APT) into the sneaker. Articulate Propulsion Technology is most famous for its appearance on prosthetic legs of several Paralympics athletes. April Holmes, a Team Jordan track and field athlete, was the inspiration behind the Air Jordan 2009.

A Focus on Defense

Satin sheets were used on the Air Jordan 2009 and inspired by Michael Jordan's belief that man on man defense in basketball is very similar to the art of defending oneself in the sport of fencing. The sheets are meant to remind athletes of the importance of defense in light of the weird attire worn by fencers.

A Stylish, Complex, and Clean Sneaker

A diamond shaped hologram is included under the ankle support and premium leathers are used on the Air Jordan 2009 so that it is not only functional on the courts, but also looks good off the courts. The outsole includes multi-directional patterns which help to increase grip, and the stitching on the upper is purposely sewn in two rows and three rows below it in order to represent Michael Jordan's famous number 23.

Blown Glass Inspiration

The Air Jordan 2009 used a Thermo Plastic Urethane (TPU) chassis on the outsole. The TPU was inspired by blown glass and ensured that each pair of Air Jordan 2009 would be individually unique. The Air Jordan 2009 was released in 2009. The limited release featured only 2009 shoes. Of the 2009 models, 1005 were for sale in the US and 1004 were for sale elsewhere. After the initial limited release, the Air Jordan 2009 was released to the general public in February 2009.

Air Jordan 2009 In The Media

Air Jordan 2009 Commercial - Lead The Charge

Air Jordan 2009 Launch Event

Air Jordan 2009 Promotional Poster