Michael Jordan Celebrates 40 Years of Greatness with Air Jordan Book

Back in 1985, Michael Jordan entered the NBA and forever changed the league. His dominance on the court is still studied today, as is his success in the footwear and sportswear game through Jordan Brand. This year marks the 40th anniversary of MJ’s original Air Jordan 1 silhouette, and the celebration continues with a brand-new book, Air Jordan, written by Adam Bradley.

Throughout the six chapters, split up this way to honor MJ’s six championships, Air Jordan breaks down the legendary partnership between Nike and Michael Jordan that shaped the global footwear industry, as well as streetwear culture. There are plenty of unseen images from Jordan’s personal archives, ranging from mementos from his childhood and apparel pieces he wore during famous photoshoots. Nike even dug into the archives to contribute rarities like sketches by legendary Nike and Jordan footwear designer Tinker Hatfield.

Chapter 1 breaks down the evolution of the Air Jordan signature sneaker series, including a gatefold of all 40 Air Jordan models. Chapter 2 is all about the business side of MJ’s life and how he went from an NBA athlete to the chairman of the multi-billion-dollar Jordan Brand. Chapter 3 explores the significance of MJ in pop culture and society as a whole, from his classic Space Jam film to the “Be Like Mike” Gatorade campaign and everything in between. Chapter 4 focuses on Jordan’s tunnel walks and style off the court, while chapter 5 delves into Jordan Brand’s wide focus across sports. Finally, chapter 6 dissects his philanthropy and the impact it has made on the world, like the Wings program and his long-standing partnership with Make-A-Wish.

Not only does the book offer insight into the man behind Jordan Brand but it also highlights all those who were influenced by MJ. Gatefolds throughout the book showcase iconic advertisements and hip-hop lyrics that reference His Airness. Throughout, there are quotes from celebrities like Rihanna, Travis Scott, Spike Lee, and more, each of whom has been impacted by Michael Jordan’s success.

The cover showcases a never-before-published photo of Jordan in the iconic Jumpman pose by Annie Leibovitz. Every copy will feature this, but there’s 1,000 limited hand-numbered editions of the book that feature an intricately toolled clamshell with ornate Baroque detailing designed by Jason Mayden and inspired by the laser graphics of the Air Jordan 20. It will also come with an Italian-made silk scarf mirroring the clamshell, a poster of MJ doing the famous Wings pose, and packaged in a special black and red tote bag.

The Air Jordan book will be released today, October 15, 2025 through Assouline and select retailers. Retail is set at $123 for the standard version and $2,300 for the limited edition 1-of-1000 Ultimate format. Check below for some scans of the imagery featured in the book, and download the Sole Retriever mobile app for more updates on the latest from Jordan Brand.

Nicholas Vlahos

Sneakerhead from South Florida who turned his passion into a career. When not writing for Sole Retriever, I enjoy attending concerts and catching the latest movies. Email: nick@soleretriever.com