Air Jordan 11 OG 'Bred' 1996 130245-062 #

The Air Jordan 11 OG 'Bred' (130245-062) . released in 1996 . is a hallmark of both Michael Jordan's basketball legacy and sneaker culture. This colorway . often referred to as "Bred" (a combination of "Black" and "Red") . holds significant meaning as it was the shoe worn by Jordan during his 1996 NBA Championship win with the Chicago Bulls . making it one of the most iconic sneakers in the Air Jordan lineup.

Design and Materials:

Upper: The upper of the Air Jordan 11 OG 'Bred' features a combination of black ballistic nylon mesh and the signature glossy patent leather mudguard that wraps around the shoe. The black mesh provides breathability and durability . while the patent leather adds a premium and sleek touch. The high-cut patent leather was a revolutionary design element . offering both style and support.
Color Scheme: The predominantly black upper is complemented by striking Varsity Red accents and a White midsole . creating a bold and powerful contrast. The black and red combination is a nod to the Chicago Bulls' team colors . making this model even more significant in Jordan's career.

Signature Elements:

Patent Leather Mudguard: The black patent leather extends around the lower part of the sneaker . giving it a distinctive shine and creating a luxurious yet performance-ready look. This element was a game-changer in the design of basketball shoes at the time.
Jumpman Logo: A small red Jumpman logo is embroidered on the lateral side of the shoe near the ankle . standing out against the black upper and serving as an iconic branding detail.
23 Branding: The heel features the number “23” in white . referencing Jordan's jersey number. This is another classic detail that makes the Air Jordan 11 OG 'Bred' instantly recognizable.

Midsole and Cushioning:

Phylon Midsole: The white midsole houses the full-length Air-Sole unit . which provides excellent cushioning and responsiveness. This lightweight foam midsole was designed to offer superior comfort and shock absorption . making it suitable for high-performance on the court.
Carbon Fiber Shank Plate: The midsole also incorporates a carbon fiber spring plate that enhances stability and support during quick cuts and lateral movements. This feature was essential for Jordan's style of play.

Outsole:

Red Rubber Outsole: The outsole is a bright Varsity Red . with translucent sections that provide a glimpse of the carbon fiber shank. The vibrant red outsole contrasts sharply with the black upper . giving the sneaker its distinctive "Bred" nickname.
Herringbone Traction: The outsole features a herringbone traction pattern . offering excellent grip and control on the basketball court. The combination of the carbon fiber plate and herringbone design ensured that Jordan had maximum support and traction during games.

Performance:

Air-Sole Cushioning: The full-length Air-Sole unit provides responsive cushioning that helps absorb impact . making it ideal for high-intensity basketball games. The Phylon midsole adds an extra layer of comfort and support.
Fit and Support: The patent leather mudguard and the padded collar create a snug fit that offers ankle support and a secure lockdown feel. The mesh upper allows for flexibility and ventilation . balancing both comfort and performance.

Legacy and Cultural Impact:

The Air Jordan 11 OG 'Bred' was worn by Michael Jordan during the 1996 NBA Playoffs and the Finals . where he led the Bulls to their fourth NBA Championship. The "Bred" colorway became synonymous with Jordan's dominance during this era . and it remains one of the most beloved and coveted models in the Air Jordan collection.

Not only did this shoe perform exceptionally on the court . but it also became a cultural icon . blending luxury and performance in a way that had never been done before in basketball footwear. The Air Jordan 11 . particularly the 'Bred' colorway . set new standards for both athletic performance and fashion . making it a staple in sneaker culture for years to come.

Conclusion:

The Air Jordan 11 OG 'Bred' (1996) is a timeless classic . combining sleek design with cutting-edge performance technology. Its black mesh and patent leather upper . paired with the bold Varsity Red outsole . make it an unforgettable and historically significant sneaker. As a shoe that played a pivotal role in Jordan's career and cemented his place in basketball history . the Air Jordan 11 'Bred' remains one of the most sought-after models by sneakerheads and fans alike.