Air Jordan Spizike Release Dates

The Spizike was originally released on October 21, 2006 at a retal price of $175. It was conceived as a commemoration of filmmaker Spike Lee's contribution to the Air Jordan brand and was named "Spizike" as a fusion of "Spike" and "Mike", referring to Spike Lee and Michael Jordan. Spike Lee's Mars Blackmon character, which he played himself in his movie "She's Gotta Have It," and later in numerous Nike commercials, became synonymous with the Air Jordan brand, creating an enduring legacy in the sneaker world.

The Spizike was designed by the inimitable Tinker Hatfield, the legendary Nike designer behind some of the most memorable Air Jordan models. The sneaker is a hybrid design that combines elements from several different Air Jordan models that were featured in Spike Lee's commercials for the brand, including the Air Jordan III, IV, V, VI, and XX. This blend of designs was intended to pay homage to Spike Lee's influence on the Air Jordan brand while creating something completely new and unique.

Spike Lee's association with the Air Jordan Spizike goes beyond just his name being on the shoe. He was directly involved in the creation process, providing input on the design and aesthetic. Spike Lee's character, Mars Blackmon, even features on the lace lock and heel of the shoe, reiterating his enduring influence on the Air Jordan brand.

From the unique mash-up design to the influential associations, the Air Jordan Spizike is more than a sneaker - it's a piece of cultural history. Whether you're a sneaker collector, a basketball fan, or a devotee of popular culture, the Spizike offers a tangible link to a transformative era in sports and style. Find Jordan Spizike releases new and old right here on Sole Retriever!