Watch: Michael Jordan names his favorite iconic Air Jordan sneakers says, 'It's like saying which one of your kids you like...'

Michael Jordan is right up there as an All Time Great in basketball World, The man has been a testimony of Brilliance and is loved Globally. Even though it’s been more than two decades since Jordan last played professionally, his signature sneaker line continues to thrive. Every year, new performance models are introduced, while retro Air Jordans are re-released in popular colorways, keeping sneaker culture alive and well.

While athletes and fans often rank their favorite Air Jordans, has anyone asked the GOAT himself about his top picks? A resurfaced video reveals Jordan's personal list of his four favorite sneakers.

Jordan's Top 4 Favorite Air Jordans

In the video on social media, Jordan explains how difficult it is to choose his favorite Air Jordans, saying, “That's hard, you know? It's like saying which one of your kids you like the most.” Nonetheless, Jordan settled on these four models:

1. Air Jordan 11
“The 11s are my favorite.”
The Air Jordan 11 is one of the most iconic models, especially recognized for its association with Space Jam and Jordan’s return to the NBA after a brief baseball stint. First released in 1995, Jordan wore the 11s during the Chicago Bulls' loss to the Orlando Magic, but it was later instrumental in helping him lead the Bulls to another NBA Finals championship in 1996. Today, the Air Jordan 11, known for its mesh upper and patent leather mudguard, remains a fan favorite, with limited annual releases that consistently sell out. You can find them on resale platforms like eBay, StockX, and GOAT.

2. Air Jordan 3
“The 3s are my next favorite.”
The Air Jordan 3 holds a special place in Jordan’s heart, as it is credited with saving the Air Jordan line after the less successful Air Jordan 2. Designed by Tinker Hatfield, the AJ3 debuted in 1988 and featured a leather upper with elephant print detailing. This model is iconic not only for its aesthetics but also because it marked Jordan's first dunk contest victory during the 1988 All-Star Weekend. Available in several colorways, the Air Jordan 3 remains a must-have for sneakerheads, with resale options found across various platforms.

3. Air Jordan 12
“Probably the 12s or 13s come in third.”
The Air Jordan 12 is known for its powerful design and role in Jordan’s success on the court, including leading the Bulls to a championship in 1996. The model debuted in November of that year and is widely remembered for its variety of colorways, with one of the most famous being the “Flu Game” colorway, inspired by Jordan’s legendary performance during Game 5 of the 1997 Finals. Like the AJ11 and AJ3, the Air Jordan 12 sees limited releases, often with retro versions. Resale options for the Air Jordan 12 are readily available for those who missed its original drop.

4. Air Jordan 13
“The 13s are probably third.”
Released in November 1997, the Air Jordan 13 was inspired by Jordan’s catlike agility on the court, with design elements like the hologram on the upper resembling a panther’s eye and a paw-like outsole. This model is tied to Jordan's sixth NBA Championship and is also the shoe he wore during the iconic "Last Shot" in the 1998 Finals. Since its release, the Air Jordan 13 has seen a variety of colorways, and it’s a popular choice for sneaker enthusiasts. Resale websites carry a wide selection of the AJ13, making it easy for fans to find the model in their desired colorway.

Jordan's Approach to His Sneakers

Jordan also shared insights into why he went through so many pairs of shoes during games, explaining, “If you ever were a kid, and you put on those shoes for the first time, it's like you feel energetic. You feel like you got something you can actually showcase. I wanted that feeling every game.” This love for his shoes and the energy they gave him on the court played a key role in making the Air Jordan line what it is today.

Michael Jordan’s lasting influence on the sneaker industry and basketball is undeniable. With each of his favorite models—the Air Jordan 11, 3, 12, and 13—still commanding attention and love from fans worldwide, it’s clear that his legacy continues to shape both sports and sneaker culture. Jordan is a cult figure globally and no one can deny the fact that "Sneakerheads" are a thing because of Jordans.