k i c k s t a r t m o n d a y s: a i r j o r d a n X I I I

Welcome back to this week's edition of KickStart Mondays! Its been a while since our last KSM post but we've returned this week with a feature on the Air Jordan XIII.

The Air Jordan XIII was first released back in '98 when the Bulls were still on top of the NBA during their second 3peat. The Air Jordan XIII which was inspired by the black panther, the nickname given to MJ by his friends in the NBA. The Air Jordan XIII which features a podular outsole is considered one of the more well built and comfortable sneakers in the line. The upper features paneling which is meant to resemble the paw of the panther. With all the various colourways, we've seen materials like cloth w/ 3M, pebbling as well as traditional leather used in these panels. Another key trait of this iconic shoe is the heal tab area which is predominately adorned by a suede like material. The AJ XIII is considered to many to be one of the best basketball sneakers in the line and also quite memorable. If there is one defining feature of this shoe it will have to be the hologram found on the ankle area of the shoe, designed to resemble the eye of the panther! Jordan brand has dropped some rumours that this model will experience a retro this year with two classic colourways. The AJ XIII was definitely a success and a great second shoe to be released under the Jordan Brand umbrella.

I personally have very fond memories of this AJ XIII as it was released during the same time as the Air Penny II. I still remember that my buddy in high school would rock these joints, switching between these and the Pennys. Same trend as always, I loved them but couldn't afford them back in the day but I was fortunate to score a pair a couple years back with the Flint (Team Reds). Many ppl don't like any J's past XI but these joints are definitely sick! I would consider them to be in my top 10 sneakers of all time and you should definitely cop these when and if they release again this year. Don't sleep on these bad boys, they really are a classic!