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Air Jordans: 26 years of the coveted collectible sneaker

Nike has a tradition of creating shoes that inspire a cult following.

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Air Jordan XI

The Air Jordan XI was the first basketball shoe to have patent leather. Nike aimed for a "formal look." The Air Jordan XI was first released in the 1995-96 season for $125. The shoe was rereleased in 2011 for $180. Nike revenue, 1996: $6.5 billion.

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Flexing their muscles

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