Air Jordan XX2

Air Jordan XX2

Designer: D'Wayne Edwards

Released: 2007

D'Wayne Edwards returned for his second turn as the lead designer for a Jordan signature model. For the Air Jordan XX2, he drew his inspiration from the F-22 Raptor fighter jet, an apt embodiment of the lethal speed and agility of the game's greatest player. The sharp lines of the XX2's upper were patterned after the sharp maneuverability of the F-22, and the shoe's efficient sculpted design and a stable extended heel counter made it lightweight and supportive, similar to the jet. The shoe featured a triangular quilted pattern on the collar and a seamless bootie that maximized comfort and breathability. It featured zigzag stitching inspired by the jet. The first titanium-coated shank plate was built into the XX2, as were titanium lace loops/lace locks. An invisible Independent Podular Suspension system, updated from the previous Air Jordan cushioning system, offered responsive double-stacked Zoom Air low-profile cushioning or shock-absorbing encapsulated Air. A fresh chevron pattern was introduced to the outsole to improve traction. The XX2 was released during the 2007 All-Star weekend on MJ's 44th birthday, Feb. 17. Fifteen original colorways of the XX2 included a special edition made out of basketball leather. Other colorways represented Atlanta, Dallas, Denver, Detroit, and Seattle. Joe Johnson, Josh Howard, Carmelo Anthony, Richard Hamilton, and Ray Allen all wore the XX2 during the 2007-08 season. At the 2007 All-Star game in Las Vegas, Hamilton and Allen each wore an XX2 Player Exclusive.