Air Jordan XX1

Air Jordan XX1

Designer: D'Wayne Edwards

Released: 2006

D'Wayne Edwards began a two-shoe run as a lead designer on the Air Jordan line, taking the helm for the Air Jordan XX1. Maintaining the theme of sporty and/or luxurious automobiles that was popular throughout the Jordan line, Edwards drew his inspiration from a Bentley Continental GT coupe. The embodiment of premium style and elegance featured a seamless diamond-quilted bootie, clean upper, and a lower foot air grille. The double-lasted Phylon lightweight-foam midsole lent a low-profile feel, while a carbon fiber shank plate allowed for maximum midfoot and arch support. One innovative component of the AJ XX1 was the evolution of the Independent Podular Suspension technology. The wearer could choose between Zoom Air or encapsulated Air cushioning in the heel. Two original colorways of the Air Jordan XX1 released in 2006. The White/Red model consisted of full-grain leather, while the Red/Black was constructed of rich suede. Two low versions also were released in white and in black. The commercial for the AJ XX1 featured young athletes reenacting famous moments from Michael's career, including the shot on Craig Ehlo, recreations from the Slam Dunk contests, the "Last Shot," and the "Michael shrug." The tagline of the commercial was "Let your game speak."