History of the Jordan 6 Rings Sneakers
Initially released in 2008, the Jordan 6 Rings became the third hybrid model from Jordan Brand. Following the releases in 2005-06 and the Spizike releases in 2006-07, sneaker fans were already acclimated to the concept of combining elements from different shoes.
While the previous releases honored Tinker Hatfield and Spike Lee, respectively, the Jordan 6 Rings honored Michael Jordan's most impressive accolade.
The 6 Rings Championship Roots
Michael Jordan won six NBA Championships for the Chicago Bulls over the course of his career, and the Jordan 6 Rings were built from the seven signature sneakers he wore during those winning seasons — Air Jordan 6, 7, 8, 11, 12, 13 and 14.
The most prominent inspiration comes from the Air Jordan 11, the sneaker MJ wore during the 1996 Bulls iconic 72-10 season. The Jordan 6 Rings features the Jordan 11's patent leather mudguard and the same mesh upper. The second most recognizable part is the Air Jordan 13's midsole and outsole.
There are many other smaller details featured throughout the design. The Air Jordan 6's influence can be seen on the Porsche spoiler-inspired heel tab and lace locks. The Air Jordan 7's Huarache-style bootie is found on the inside, while its perforations are featured on the outside of the Jordan 6 Rings. The Air Jordan 8's chenille Jumpman logo and Velcro straps also have a notable presence on the outside of the shoe. The Air Jordan 12 influenced the metal lace loops at the top and the "T W O 3' stitching down the tongue. Lastly, the Jumpman logo on the toebox comes from the Air Jordan 14 — the sneaker MJ wore for the legendary "Last Shot".
Jordan 6 Rings: Collectibility and Resale Value
The Jordan 6 Rings has always been made widely available, so its collectibility is mainly based on its significance rather than its rarity. Since 2008, the sneaker has been released in a handful of classic Air Jordan colorways like "Black/Red," "Concord," "Cool Grey" and "Space Jam," as well as many new iterations. The shoe was even adapted into a winterized boot.
Regardless of the year, size or condition, you can find nearly any pair of Jordan 6 Rings for under $200. This isn't the sneaker for resellers to cash in on. For people who simply want the look of the best Jordans without breaking the bank on seven different pairs, that's a good thing.
Original 6 Rings Colorways
In August 2008, the Jordan 6 Rings debuted in the "Black/Varsity Red" or "Bred" (322992-071) colorway for $160. The sneaker features nearly identical color-blocking as the Air Jordan 11. The women's "Medium Grey/White/Vivid Blue/Concord" (323399-041) colorway was released alongside it for $100. A month later, Jordan Brand released an "Olympic" (322992-161) colorway to represent Team USA at the 2008 Summer Olympics.
"Cool Grey" (322992 015)
"Concord" (323399-041)
In October 2008, the 6 Rings was released in the "Concord" (322992-151) and "Pale Blue" (323399-111) colorways as general releases. That same month, Jordan Brand released a limited-edition 6 Rings with laser-etched details similar to the Jordan 20. Roughly 500 pairs were released to the public. The sneaker took on the "Nelly" (332157-101) nickname after the rapper wore them.
In November 2008, the 6 Rings released an "Army" (332157-011) colorway. Although the silhouette was subject to countless knockoffs, these were the only official colorways from its first year of production.
Who Should Buy the Jordan 6 Rings?
Everything about the Jordan 6 Rings is rooted in Michael Jordan's ability to perform at the highest level. The sneaker holds an important meaning and timeless Air Jordan styling.
If you're on a budget but want the look of some of the most iconic Jordan silhouettes, or you simply want to celebrate His Airness's accomplishments, then the Jordan 6 Rings make for a great addition to most collections.
Cultural Significance of the Jordan 6 Rings
As with any hybrid Jordan model, its perception has been polarizing. The meaning behind the design is an important part of celebrating Michael Jordan's greatness and educating younger fans who didn't live through the 1990s Bulls era. Aside from true sports fanatics and sneakerheads, the average person may not have known how many championship titles MJ won, but the 6 Rings makes it clear. For that reason alone, it's one of the best examples of Jordan Brand's strong storytelling through design.
However, its close resemblance to the Air Jordan 11, arguably the most popular Air Jordan model ever, makes it less desirable for some collectors. It's worth noting that the Jordan 6 Rings released in a "Bred" colorway just a few months before the fan-favorite "Bred" 11s were re-released as part of the 2008 11/12 Countdown Pack. The point of comparison between the two models has existed since its inception.
Sizing and Fit of the Jordan 6 Rings
Although the Jordan 6 Rings is a hybrid of seven Air Jordans, the sizing is straightforward. It's recommended to go with your true size for an accurate fit. With the upper from the Air Jordan 11 and the tooling from the Air Jordan 13, you can use both models to gauge your sizing.
Jordans Release Dates, News and Articles
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