Nike introduces the Air Jordan 13 Retro Wings, a black edition that connects the original basketball silhouette with the Jordan Wings program. Jordan Brand uses a wear away denim upper that changes through regular use. Scuffs gradually reveal a collage of colors, Jumpman graphics and artwork linked to the development of the Wings initiative. The material gives each pair a different appearance over time and turns everyday wear into part of the design.
SNEAKERS
The upper begins in black from heel to toe, allowing the hidden artwork to appear in stages. Jordan Brand adds a black metal Jumpman logo to the tongue and places Wings branding along the eyestay. The company also replaces the AJ13’s familiar holographic cat eye with a “23” emblem that incorporates Jordan Wings graphics. These details connect the shoe with the students, scholars and young creatives who participate in the program.
The edition keeps the rugged character of the Air Jordan 13 while changing one of its best known visual features. Tinker Hatfield created the original model in 1997 and drew from Michael Jordan’s “Black Cat” nickname. He shaped the outsole to resemble a panther paw and added a holographic eye near the ankle. Nike equipped the model with Zoom Air cushioning and a carbon fiber plate, supporting the quick footwork and agility that defined Jordan’s game during the 1997 to 1998 season. Jordan wore the silhouette during the campaign that ended with his sixth NBA championship.
The Wings edition redirects the cat eye reference toward education and youth development. Jordan Brand runs Wings to create access to education, mentorship and professional opportunities for young people. The initiative now works with more than 30 partners globally and includes the Scholars Program, Design Program, Intern Program and Beyond Basketball. Each program addresses a different part of education, creative development, career experience or life skills.
Jordan Wings marked ten years of global activity in 2025. By that point, the initiative had supported more than 4,000 scholars. The Design Program had worked with more than 1,400 students, and the Intern Program had placed 36 participants in Nike internships. Nike and Jordan Brand employees had also contributed more than 146,000 volunteer hours. Those figures give the graphics beneath the denim a direct connection to a long running education program and its students.
The Air Jordan 13 Retro Wings launches through SNKRS on August 6 for $215.
Name: Air Jordan 13 Retro Wings
Colorway: Black, Atomic Red, Medium Olive-Noble Red
SKU: IX1872-001
Price: 215 USD
Release Date: August 9
Available at: Nike and select retailers
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