The latest Air Jordan 12 pays tribute to one of Michael Jordan’s memorable moments in Japan — and it is proving that sneaker storytelling is still alive and well.
Jordan Brand is looking to Japan once again for inspiration with a new Air Jordan 12 “Sumo”, a limited release that pays homage to Michael Jordan’s 1996 visit to the country.
During that trip, Jordan famously took part in a basketball session alongside sumo wrestlers — a moment that has now become the inspiration behind the latest sneaker.
A Bold Black And Purple Makeover
The “Sumo” Air Jordan 12 arrives in a predominantly black and purple colour scheme, with laser-etched detailing adding texture to the black leather upper.
Jordan Brand has also given the sneaker several Japan-specific touches.
The familiar “23” branding on the tongue has been replaced with kanji characters, while the heel pull tab receives another Japanese-inspired detail. A special Jumpman logo also features on the tongue.
The special packaging includes paper printed with Michael Jordan’s regular-season statistics, giving collectors another piece of basketball history alongside the shoes.
A Japan-Only Release
The Air Jordan 12 “Sumo” was released exclusively in Japan on 23 August, through Atmos Japan and the Tokyo23 store operated by Atmos.
The retail price was set at 34,100 yen, equivalent to roughly US$214.
For sneakerheads outside Japan, however, getting a pair may prove considerably harder.
As of 25 August, official product images had appeared on Nike’s website, but the sneaker was still not expected to receive a wider international release.
Main Image: Sneaker Files
