It was a historic landing for the 20th anniversary of Air Jordan 11 “Space Jam” Monstar Mash sneakers. The retro-inspired kicks are now sold out on Nike.com after dropping online today at 10 a.m. ET.
Demand was also high at retailers around the country, including Detroit’s Elite Mr. Alan sneaker store, where eager shoppers remained undaunted despite long lines and freezing temperatures.
In fact, one customer stood in line for 18 hours — queuing up at 2 p.m. on Friday for a chance at scoring a pair. Asked by a reporter what he liked about the “Space Jam” style, he responded that it’s just business as usual for Brand Jordan fans awaiting yet another release.
“To tell you the truth, I get down with every one that comes out … everyone wants one for a Christmas present,” he responded, pointing out that he worked an extra shift and that the $220 price tag was worth his time and money.
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Meanwhile, sneakerheads camped outside a San Francisco Nice Kicks store during heavy rainfall ahead of the release, an observer recorded on Instagram. “RAIN, HAIL, SLEET OR SNOW ITS ON WITH THE SHOW!!! THIS IS WHAT PEOPLE BEEN CAMPED OUT IN TO GET THESE SPACE JAMS!!!” he captioned the video.
Nostalgia is also another factor behind the frenzy. Sneaker boutiques celebrated the 20th anniversary of the shoe with a screening of the footwear’s companion “Space Jam” movie that starred Michael Jordan opposite Bugs Bunny. Among the stores creating buzz behind the release, Shoe Palace hosted a screening at the storied TCL Chinese Theatre in Los Angeles — where in 1996, Jordan hit the red carpet at the comedy’s premiere.
The sneakers feature a leather upper with a full-length synthetic overlay that enhances conditions for comfort and durability, and Jordan’s number “45” is stitched on the heels. The encapsulated Air-Sole unit incorporates material for cushioning. The shoes are a nod to the same pair Jordan debuted during the 1995 NBA postseason and feature Concord detail.
