The Best Holiday Air Jordan 11 Releases of All-Time

As the year draws to a close, Jordan Brand loyalists eagerly anticipate the annual holiday tradition of Air Jordan 11 releases. A symbol of both celebration and nostalgia, these releases have become a cherished part of the sneaker calendar, offering a fitting way to close out the year in style.

This year's offering, the Air Jordan 11 "Gratitude," pays homage to the legendary Concord and DMP colorways that have left an indelible mark on sneaker culture. With a Concord-based build and white uppers, the 2023 version takes it up a notch with premium tumbled leather in place of the original mesh. The striking black patent leathers and championship-celebrating metallic gold accents elevate the design, making it a standout addition to the Air Jordan 11 lineage.

What sets the "Gratitude" edition apart is not just its stunning design but also its heartfelt message. The moniker is expressed on the inner tongue and special packaging, which reads "Thank You" in a multitude of languages. This term serves a dual purpose: expressing gratitude to us, the consumers, for years of unwavering support and paying homage to the man himself, Michael Jordan, who has blessed the world with incredible entertainment in sports and an undeniable legacy in footwear.

With pairs set to drop on December 9, 2023, you'll want to make sure that you're one of the lucky ones to secure a pair — and you can get them early, on, and after drop day on StockX.

A Look Back at Recent Classics

As we celebrate the forthcoming release of the Air Jordan 11 "Gratitude," let's take a moment to revisit some of the standout holiday releases from recent years. These sneakers have not only defined the holiday season but have also become iconic in their own right.

Air Jordan 11 "UNC" (Win Like ’82)

Year: 2017

Inspired by Michael Jordan's alma mater, the University of North Carolina, this release adorned the classic silhouette with the university's Navy and University Blue hues.

Air Jordan 11 "Cherry"

Year: 2022

Known for its vibrant red accents, the "Cherry" colorway added a bold and festive touch to the Air Jordan 11, all whilst linking back to the brand’s long-standing association with the Chicago Bulls.

Air Jordan 11 "Concord"

Year: 2018

The OG "Concord" colorway returned in 2018 in it’s original glory; high-cut black patent leather and white mesh upper. Arguably the best Air Jordan 11 colorway ever made, the pair remains a fan-favorite and one of the most iconic Air Jordan sneakers of all time.

Air Jordan 11 "Space Jam"

Year: 2016

Made famous by the movie "Space Jam," the 2016 re-release brought the beloved silhouette back to OG specs with higher-cut patent leathers.

Air Jordan 11 "Cool Grey"

Year: 2021

The one-time PE made for Mike while playing for the Wizards was released for the second time in 2021 — A bonafide classic colorway.

Air Jordan 11 "Gamma Blue"

Year: 2013

The most called-for retro outside of the original colorways, 2013's "Gamma Blue" Air Jordan 11 remains one of the most sought-after colorways in the silhouette's history.

Air Jordan 11 "Pantone"

Year: 2014

How do you follow up on 2013's "Gamma Blue" Air Jordan 11? With something as brilliant as the Pantone Air Jordan 11 — and still fetching over $1k on the aftermarket.

Air Jordan 11 "72-10"

Year: 2015

Celebrating the Chicago Bulls' historic 72-10 season, this release featured premium materials not often seen on the silhouette and was the pivotal release that turned the Holiday Air Jordan 11 release into a mainstream attraction.