Jordan Retro IX

Lost Ones

The Jordan IX has never been one of those shoes that "brought it out" in people.I'm guessing because on it's initial release Jordan was busy striking out.So no real memories to attach to the shoe until the 2002 retro and even that was a bit foggy.So people tend to overlook the IX's. You had Pippen pointing at the sole of his shoe telling Mike to come back with the X's and we don't really need to get into the XI's and their place in the overall landscape of Air Jordans.So I decided to bring this shoe back out and give it a couple runs to see if it was a good thing that Mike took a year off.

Figure1
If you look closely on the button on the heel you will notice the jumpman logo and the globe signifying Jordan's international appeal.

At first glance the shoe looks extremely simple compared to previous years.The simple lines of the shoe were inspired by european dress shoes.Although it is cut a bit higher compared to most basketball shoes it doesn't have an overly restrictive feel to it.It is lined with padding to prevent discomfort on the ankle bones.Although the cut is a bit higher than normal it provides above average ankle support.You would expect it to be a bit more due to the cut but it does the job.Inside there is a dynamic fit sleeve made of lycra and mesh which helps with moisture management and support.

figure2
Note the simplistic design of the shoe and the speed lacing system.

To support the forefoot there are phylon supports on the medial and lateral side to prevent your foot from sliding off the footbed.Unfortunately while it prevents your foot from sliding off the footbed it does nothing to prevent your foot from sliding within the shoe.The speed lacing system allows you to really synch in your laces with one pull and adds to total support.Cushioning is provided by heel and forefoot Air.While not responsive like Zoom Air it provides average impact protection.

figure3
the outsole features words in different languages which represent Jordan

figure4
Another look at the outsole

The outsole is interesting it feature words in different languages that describe Jordan.See air-jordans.com for translations of the words on the soles.Traction is good on clean courts.I found myself constantly wiping my soles for optimum traction.

figure5
a look at the speed lacing system

Overall the shoe was solid.Compared to today's standards it holds it's own.I'm sure there are other "sexier" choices out there when it comes to picking a year for Jordans.While the IX doesn't really have too many memories behind it,the shoe performs well enough not to be forgotten.

Comfort and Fit-3.5/5
Cushioning-3.5/5
Ankle Support-4/5
Traction-3/5
Overall-3.5/5


The shoe lost points in the comfort/fit department because my forefoot kept on sliding back and forth.If the review had been done in 1993 it would have received top marks but still the shoe didn't embarrass itself on the court.On a side note Jordan never wore the shoe in a Bulls uniform but the statue outside the United Center has Jordan wearing IX's