Air Jordan, the brand that emerged through its collaboration with top singer Drake
Air Jordan, the brand that emerged through its collaboration with top singer Drake
1. Air Jordan 3 “Anaconda”
Veteran Nike designer Mark Smith got creative with the Air Jordan 3 by using an eye-catching transparent membrane covering the classic elephant leather pattern on the upper. “I didn’t think anyone would pay attention to it, because I don’t either, but it was cool to design it for Drake,” Smith said in an interview. And he was right, most people don’t remember it.
2. Air Jordan 3 “Drake vs Lil Wayne”
This never-before-released duo was made specifically for Drake when he co-headlined a tour with Lil Wayne in 2014. Two considered very simple versions were created – one predominantly white, The other is covered in black with suede and a custom insole.
3. Air Jordan 3 “Gold”
Year of release: 2014
One thing that sets Drake in high esteem from Jordan Brand is the use of gold for his custom shoes. This one-of-a-kind pair of Air Jordan 3s was crafted just for him to take his career one step further. It’s dipped in gold, emblazoned with “6IX” on the tongue – a nod to his nickname in his hometown of Toronto, and the final touch is a touch of pink on the outsole. First seen at OVO Fest 2014, these shoes were never released at retail.
4. Air Jordan 10 “White OVO’
Release date: September 12, 2015
After initial exclusivity, Very Own and Jordan Brand officially launched the Air Jordan 10 “White OVO” in October 2015, marking the partnership between the two sides. The shoe features a white leather upper that blends perfectly with stingray leather overlays and a translucent outsole with gold rubber pieces throughout. The OVO plus sign is printed on the bottom, no obvious distinction exists on these shoes, if you don’t know this is an agreement between sneakerheads and Drake’s fan club
5. Air Jordan 10 “Black OVO”
Release date: February 15, 2015
Drake first introduced the OVO x Air Jordan 10 Retro ‘Black’ at the “Drake Night” event during a Toronto Raptors game in 2014. It was the perfect way to present a pretty cool-looking shoe . It features a black leather upper with stingray overlays, accented by a translucent sole. The Drake Effect made the Jordan 10, often considered one of the least loved retro models, suddenly popular.
Jordan Brand added more marketing punch by releasing a short video featuring the shoes, accompanying apparel and “Jumpman” while also featuring Drake x Future’s hit What a time to be alive as the soundtrack. It is certainly a perfect way to make the most of a partnership for both parties.
6. Air Jordan 12 “White OVO”
Release date: October 1, 2016
Many people believe that the Air Jordan 12 “White OVO” is the most effective collaboration between OVO and Jordan. The color scheme is very flexible, not fussy or complicated, it’s simple but effective. Unlike many others, Drake never had too much hand in the designs. He mostly revolves around a limited color palette mixed with metallic elements like gold.
7. Jordan Hydro Slide “OVO”
Release date: October 1, 2016
OVO Hydro Slides were released as an accessory with the Jordan 12 Retro “White OVO”. Has the same white color tone and is accentuated by yellow details of brands such as OVO and Jumpman. The leather and OVO lettering on the strap give the Hydro Slide a bit more appeal than other pairs of slides used after matches.
