This specific nomenclature refers to a particular colorway of a Nike basketball shoe model. The shoe design represents a distinct era in athletic footwear and connects to a specific period in a celebrated athlete’s career. Colorways, like the one described, often acquire significance within sneaker culture and can become highly sought-after by collectors.
The value of such shoes derives from a combination of factors. These include historical significance, limited availability, association with peak athletic performance, and distinctive aesthetic features. Specific color combinations can become iconic, representing cultural moments and trends. Furthermore, these products can appreciate in value over time, transforming into coveted collector’s items.
This discussion provides a foundation for understanding the multifaceted aspects of these products. It allows for a deeper exploration of topics such as design history, the influence of athletic endorsements, the evolution of sneaker culture, and the economics of the collectible market. Each of these areas merits further investigation.
1. Model
The “Air Jordan 45” designation signifies the specific shoe model within the larger Air Jordan line. It serves as the foundation upon which the “Air Jordan 45 Flight High Concord Red” is built. Understanding this model’s characteristics is crucial for comprehending the complete product description. The Air Jordan 45 represents a distinct design, incorporating performance features and aesthetic elements relevant to its release period. The “Concord Red” colorway, applied to the Air Jordan 45 silhouette, creates the specific product identified by the full name. Without the Air Jordan 45 model as a base, the “Concord Red” colorway would lack a canvas for expression. For example, the same “Concord Red” colorway applied to a different Air Jordan model, like the Air Jordan 11, results in an entirely different shoe. This distinction highlights the importance of the model as a core component.
The Air Jordan 45 itself carries its own historical context within the Air Jordan lineage. Released following Michael Jordan’s return to professional basketball, the model represents a specific period in his career. This association contributes to its significance and differentiates it from earlier and later models. Therefore, the “Air Jordan 45 Flight High Concord Red” inherits this historical context. The model’s performance characteristics, design features, and public reception all play a role in shaping the perception of the “Concord Red” iteration. Understanding this interplay allows for a more nuanced appreciation of the final product.
In summary, the Air Jordan 45 serves as the foundational model upon which the “Concord Red” colorway builds its identity. Recognizing this relationship is fundamental to understanding the full context and significance of the “Air Jordan 45 Flight High Concord Red” as a distinct and historically relevant product within the Air Jordan legacy. The model’s own history and design influence the overall perception and value of this particular iteration.
2. Colorway
The “Concord Red” colorway forms a crucial component of the “Air Jordan 45 Flight High Concord Red” designation. This specific combination of colors applied to the Air Jordan 45 silhouette distinguishes it from other iterations of the same model. Understanding the “Concord Red” colorway is therefore essential for comprehending the complete product.
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Visual Identity
The “Concord Red” colorway creates a distinct visual identity for the Air Jordan 45. The predominantly white upper, contrasted with black accents and strategic use of Concord purple, creates a recognizable aesthetic. This color scheme borrows from the iconic Air Jordan 11 “Concord,” a highly sought-after shoe, thus linking the Air Jordan 45 to a legacy of popular designs. This visual connection contributes to the overall appeal and market value.
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Cultural Significance
Colorways often carry cultural significance within the sneaker community. The “Concord” color scheme, with its history tied to Michael Jordan’s championship runs, holds a particular weight. Applying this established color palette to the Air Jordan 45 imbues it with a sense of heritage and connects it to a broader narrative within basketball and sneaker culture. This association further amplifies its desirability among collectors and enthusiasts.
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Market Value
The “Concord Red” colorway directly influences the market value of the Air Jordan 45. The popularity and historical significance of the “Concord” color scheme often translate into higher resale prices compared to other colorways of the same model. This added value underscores the importance of colorways in determining the overall worth of a shoe within the collector’s market. The limited availability of specific colorways further contributes to this phenomenon.
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Collectibility
The “Concord Red” colorway contributes to the collectibility of the Air Jordan 45. Limited releases and connections to significant cultural moments make specific colorways more desirable for collectors. The established popularity of the “Concord” color scheme enhances the Air Jordan 45’s appeal as a collectible item. This, combined with the model’s own place within Air Jordan history, strengthens its position within the wider sneaker collecting landscape.
The “Concord Red” colorway functions as more than just a visual element; it adds layers of cultural meaning, market value, and collectibility to the Air Jordan 45. These factors combined create the complete profile of the “Air Jordan 45 Flight High Concord Red,” demonstrating how a specific color application can significantly impact a product’s overall significance within the sneaker market and its cultural context.
3. Era
The mid-1990s holds significant relevance to the “Air Jordan 45 Flight High Concord Red,” representing a specific period in basketball and sneaker culture. This era influenced the shoe’s design, marketing, and reception, connecting it to broader cultural trends and historical events. Examining this context provides crucial insights into understanding the shoe’s overall significance.
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Basketball’s Golden Age
The mid-1990s is often considered a golden age for basketball, with Michael Jordan’s dominance and the rise of new rivalries captivating audiences worldwide. The Air Jordan 45, released during this period, benefited from the heightened interest in the sport. This association with peak athletic performance contributes to the shoe’s enduring appeal and connects it to a period of intense excitement and innovation within basketball.
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Emerging Sneaker Culture
Sneaker culture, as it exists today, began to take shape in the mid-1990s. Limited releases, collaborations, and the rise of sneaker collecting as a hobby all contributed to this evolution. The Air Jordan 45, particularly in limited colorways like “Concord Red,” became a part of this burgeoning culture. Its release contributed to the growing recognition of sneakers as valuable commodities and cultural artifacts.
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Technological Advancements
The mid-1990s witnessed advancements in sneaker technology, influencing the design and performance features of athletic footwear. The Air Jordan 45 incorporated design elements reflective of this period. These features, though standard now, represent innovations of the time, placing the shoe within a specific technological context.
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Fashion Trends
Fashion trends of the mid-1990s, characterized by bold colors and athletic-inspired styles, influenced the aesthetic of the Air Jordan 45. The “Concord Red” colorway, with its vibrant hues, reflects the fashion sensibilities of the era. This connection to broader fashion trends places the shoe within the larger cultural landscape of the time.
These facets of the mid-1990s shaped the reception and legacy of the “Air Jordan 45 Flight High Concord Red.” The shoe’s connection to peak athletic performance, emerging sneaker culture, technological advancements, and fashion trends solidifies its place as a product of its time. Understanding this context provides a richer appreciation for its significance within both sneaker history and the broader cultural landscape of the mid-1990s. Further exploration could examine how these factors interact and influence the current market value and collectibility of the shoe.
4. Athlete
Michael Jordan’s connection to the Air Jordan 45, and specifically the “Concord Red” colorway, is fundamental to understanding its significance. The Air Jordan line exists as a direct result of his endorsement and embodies his influence on basketball and popular culture. The “Air Jordan 45 Flight High Concord Red” derives its value, in large part, from this association. Jordan’s return to professional basketball in 1995, after a brief foray into baseball, marked the era of the Air Jordan 45’s release. This timing directly connects the shoe to a pivotal moment in his career, further amplifying its historical relevance. While Jordan did not wear the “Concord Red” colorway extensively on the court, its resemblance to the iconic Air Jordan 11 “Concord,” a shoe synonymous with his championship success, creates an implicit link. This association reinforces the narrative of the Air Jordan 45 as a symbol of Jordan’s enduring legacy.
The very existence of the “Air Jordan 45 Flight High Concord Red” as a collectible item hinges on Jordan’s cultural impact. His status as a global icon transcends sport, influencing fashion, music, and advertising. This broader cultural influence elevates the Air Jordan line beyond mere athletic footwear, transforming it into a symbol of aspiration and achievement. The “Concord Red” colorway, by virtue of its connection to the Air Jordan brand and Jordan himself, inherits this cultural significance. For example, the limited release and subsequent high resale value of the “Concord Red” demonstrate the tangible impact of Jordan’s association. The scarcity and demand for the shoe reflect the desire to own a piece of his legacy. This phenomenon illustrates how Jordan’s influence translates into real-world market value.
In conclusion, Michael Jordan’s connection to the “Air Jordan 45 Flight High Concord Red” is not merely incidental but rather the defining element of its significance. His on-court dominance, coupled with his broader cultural impact, transforms the shoe from a functional athletic product into a coveted collectible. Understanding this connection provides crucial insight into the dynamics of the sneaker market, the power of athlete endorsements, and the enduring legacy of Michael Jordan. The “Concord Red” colorway, by extension, becomes a tangible representation of this legacy, its value inextricably linked to the athlete who inspired its creation.
5. Rarity
The limited release strategy employed for certain Air Jordan models, including the “Air Jordan 45 Flight High Concord Red,” significantly impacts their market value and cultural cachet. Scarcity drives demand within the sneaker collecting community, transforming these items into coveted commodities. This section explores the multifaceted connection between rarity and the “Air Jordan 45 Flight High Concord Red,” analyzing its influence on perceived value, collectibility, and market dynamics.
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Supply and Demand Dynamics
Restricting the supply of a product inherently increases demand, especially when that product holds cultural significance or desirability. The limited release of the “Air Jordan 45 Flight High Concord Red” created an environment of scarcity, driving up prices in the resale market. This dynamic illustrates a fundamental economic principle applied to a culturally relevant commodity. The scarcity generated by a limited release transforms the item into a sought-after commodity, with prices often exceeding the original retail value significantly.
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Increased Collectibility
Rarity fuels the desire to own and preserve exclusive items. The “Air Jordan 45 Flight High Concord Red,” due to its limited availability, becomes a more desirable collector’s piece. Collectors are motivated by the exclusivity and potential for future value appreciation. This contributes to the broader cultural phenomenon of sneaker collecting, where limited releases hold a privileged position. The scarcity contributes to a sense of prestige and accomplishment among collectors who manage to acquire these limited-edition items.
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Marketing and Hype Generation
Limited releases often generate heightened interest and “hype” surrounding a product. The scarcity of the “Air Jordan 45 Flight High Concord Red” contributes to pre-release anticipation and post-release discussion within sneaker communities. This marketing strategy leverages the principles of scarcity to amplify desirability and generate buzz. This controlled release strategy creates a sense of urgency among potential buyers, contributing to the rapid sell-out of available stock and driving up resale market prices.
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Long-Term Value Appreciation
Limited release items, particularly those associated with iconic figures or brands like Air Jordan, often appreciate in value over time. The “Air Jordan 45 Flight High Concord Red,” due to its scarcity and connection to Michael Jordan’s legacy, exhibits the potential for long-term value growth. This potential for appreciation further incentivizes collectors and investors, contributing to the shoe’s market value. Factors such as condition, provenance, and continued cultural relevance influence the long-term price trajectory of these limited-edition items.
The limited release strategy employed for the “Air Jordan 45 Flight High Concord Red” plays a pivotal role in shaping its market dynamics and cultural relevance. The scarcity resulting from this strategy influences its perceived value, desirability among collectors, and potential for long-term appreciation. Understanding this interplay between rarity and value offers crucial insights into the complex landscape of the sneaker market and the factors contributing to the enduring appeal of limited-edition footwear.
6. Design
The “Air Jordan 45 Flight High Concord Red” designation includes “Flight High,” highlighting the shoe’s high-top design. This design element, characteristic of many basketball shoes of the mid-1990s, plays a crucial role in the shoe’s functionality, aesthetics, and cultural significance within the broader context of basketball and sneaker history. Examining the high-top design provides insights into the shoe’s intended purpose, its connection to contemporary trends, and its place within the evolution of athletic footwear.
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Ankle Support and Stability
High-top basketball shoes offer increased ankle support and stability, crucial for the dynamic movements inherent to the sport. The elevated height of the shoe provides additional support and protection against lateral movement, reducing the risk of ankle injuries. This functional aspect directly relates to the shoe’s intended purpose as performance footwear designed for the demands of professional basketball. The “Air Jordan 45 Flight High Concord Red” inherited this design feature, reflecting the emphasis on performance and injury prevention prevalent in basketball shoe design during that era.
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Aesthetic Appeal and Style
The high-top design contributes to the overall aesthetic appeal of the shoe. The elevated silhouette creates a visually distinct profile, differentiating it from low-top or mid-top designs. This design element became a stylistic hallmark of basketball shoes in the 1990s, influencing fashion trends and contributing to the shoe’s cultural appeal. The “Air Jordan 45 Flight High Concord Red,” with its high-top construction, participated in this stylistic trend, aligning it with the prevailing aesthetic preferences of the era. This contributes to its recognition as a product of its time and reinforces its place within the larger history of sneaker design.
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Cultural Significance and Association
High-top basketball shoes hold cultural significance, associating them with athleticism, competition, and style. The high-top design, popularized by basketball stars like Michael Jordan, became a symbol of performance and aspiration. The “Air Jordan 45 Flight High Concord Red,” bearing this design element, benefits from these cultural associations, connecting it to a broader narrative of athletic achievement and style. This connection contributes to its desirability and reinforces its value within sneaker culture.
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Evolution of Basketball Shoe Design
The high-top design represents a specific stage in the evolution of basketball shoe design. While high-tops were prevalent in the mid-1990s, subsequent trends have seen variations in height and construction. The “Air Jordan 45 Flight High Concord Red,” as a product of its time, exemplifies the design principles prevalent during that era. Analyzing its high-top construction allows for a deeper understanding of how basketball shoe design has evolved over time, reflecting changes in technology, playing styles, and aesthetic preferences. This historical perspective enhances appreciation for the “Air Jordan 45 Flight High Concord Red” as a representative of a specific period in footwear design.
The high-top design of the “Air Jordan 45 Flight High Concord Red” intertwines with its functionality, aesthetics, cultural relevance, and historical context. Understanding the role of this design element provides valuable insights into the shoe’s significance within the broader narrative of basketball, sneaker culture, and the evolution of athletic footwear. The “Air Jordan 45 Flight High Concord Red” serves as a tangible example of how design choices can reflect cultural trends, technological advancements, and the enduring influence of athletic icons like Michael Jordan.
7. Material
The “Air Jordan 45 Flight High Concord Red,” like many athletic shoes of its era, utilizes a combination of leather and synthetic materials. This material composition reflects the technological advancements and design principles prevalent in footwear manufacturing during the mid-1990s. Analyzing this material combination provides insights into the shoe’s performance characteristics, durability, aesthetic qualities, and its place within the broader context of footwear technology.
Leather offers durability, flexibility, and a premium aesthetic. Its use in the “Air Jordan 45 Flight High Concord Red” likely contributes to the shoe’s structural integrity and overall quality. Synthetic materials offer benefits such as lighter weight, increased breathability, and resistance to wear and tear. The combination of these materials allows for a balance between performance, comfort, and durability. For example, the upper might utilize leather for support and structure, while synthetic materials in the lining enhance breathability and comfort. The midsole might incorporate synthetic materials for cushioning and responsiveness, while the outsole might utilize rubber for traction and durability. Other shoes from the same period, like the Nike Air Max 95, also utilized a combination of leather, synthetic mesh, and other materials, demonstrating the prevalence of this approach in athletic footwear design.
Understanding the material composition of the “Air Jordan 45 Flight High Concord Red” provides a more comprehensive understanding of its design and intended purpose. This knowledge informs discussions about the shoe’s value, collectibility, and its place within the history of athletic footwear. Further analysis might explore the specific types of leather and synthetic materials used, their properties, and how they contribute to the overall performance and aesthetic of the shoe. Such analysis could also extend to comparisons with contemporary materials and manufacturing techniques, illustrating the evolution of footwear technology.
8. Cultural Impact
The “Air Jordan 45 Flight High Concord Red,” while not achieving the widespread recognition of other Air Jordan models, nonetheless holds a significant cultural impact within specific communities. This impact stems from a confluence of factors, including its association with Michael Jordan, its connection to the iconic “Concord” colorway, its limited release status, and its placement within a pivotal era in sneaker culture. The shoe acts as a cultural artifact, reflecting the trends, technologies, and aspirations of the mid-1990s.
The shoe’s cultural impact manifests in several ways. Within the sneaker collecting community, the “Air Jordan 45 Flight High Concord Red” represents a desirable acquisition, its rarity and historical context contributing to its value and prestige. Its presence in online forums, dedicated websites, and social media discussions underscores its ongoing relevance within this subculture. Furthermore, the shoe’s design and colorway can influence subsequent footwear designs, demonstrating a ripple effect within the broader industry. For example, the “Concord” colorway, initially popularized by the Air Jordan 11, continues to appear on various footwear models, indicating its enduring cultural influence.
However, it is crucial to acknowledge that the “Air Jordan 45 Flight High Concord Red” occupies a specific niche within the larger cultural landscape. Its impact, while significant within certain circles, does not reach the pervasive influence of iconic models like the Air Jordan 1 or Air Jordan 11. Understanding this nuanced impact requires acknowledging the complexities of sneaker culture, market dynamics, and the evolving legacy of Michael Jordan. Recognizing the shoe’s cultural impact allows for a deeper appreciation of its historical context, its value within specific communities, and its place within the ongoing evolution of sneaker culture. This understanding provides a framework for analyzing the broader cultural forces shaping consumer preferences, market trends, and the enduring power of athlete endorsements.
Frequently Asked Questions
This section addresses common inquiries regarding the Air Jordan 45 Flight High Concord Red, providing concise and informative responses.
Question 1: What distinguishes the “Concord Red” colorway?
The “Concord Red” colorway draws inspiration from the iconic Air Jordan 11 “Concord,” featuring a similar white, black, and Concord purple palette. Its application to the Air Jordan 45 silhouette creates a unique aesthetic, linking it to a celebrated design legacy.
Question 2: Why is the Air Jordan 45 less popular than other models?
The Air Jordan 45 represents a transitional period in Michael Jordan’s career, following his return from baseball. Its design, while innovative for its time, did not achieve the same iconic status as earlier or later models, contributing to its relative lower popularity.
Question 3: What is the significance of the “Flight High” designation?
“Flight High” denotes the shoe’s high-top design, a feature providing ankle support and reflecting the design conventions of basketball shoes in the mid-1990s. This design element contributed to both performance and aesthetic appeal.
Question 4: How does the limited release impact value?
Limited availability creates scarcity, driving demand and increasing market value. The “Air Jordan 45 Flight High Concord Red,” as a limited release, benefits from this dynamic, making it a desirable collector’s item.
Question 5: What materials comprise the shoe’s construction?
The shoe utilizes a combination of leather and synthetic materials, reflecting the manufacturing practices of the era. Leather provides durability and structure, while synthetic components offer benefits such as lighter weight and breathability.
Question 6: Where does this model fit within Air Jordan history?
The Air Jordan 45 marks a specific period in Michael Jordan’s career and represents a distinct design era within the Air Jordan lineage. While not as iconic as some models, it holds historical significance and contributes to the overall narrative of the brand.
Understanding these key aspects of the Air Jordan 45 Flight High Concord Red provides a more nuanced appreciation for its place within sneaker culture and history. Further research into specific details, market trends, and collector perspectives can enhance this understanding.
This FAQ section provides foundational knowledge. Subsequent sections will explore these topics in greater depth.
Collecting and Caring for Limited Edition Sneakers
Preserving the value and condition of limited-edition sneakers requires careful consideration and proactive measures. The following tips offer guidance for collectors and enthusiasts seeking to maintain their investments.
Tip 1: Proper Storage is Essential
Store sneakers in a cool, dry, and dark environment away from direct sunlight and humidity. Utilize acid-free tissue paper within the shoe to maintain its shape and absorb moisture. Original boxes offer optimal protection and preserve their value.
Tip 2: Regular Cleaning Maintains Appearance
Clean sneakers regularly using appropriate cleaning products and methods specific to the materials. Gentle brushing and targeted cleaning solutions prevent dirt and grime from becoming embedded, preserving the original color and finish. Avoid harsh chemicals and abrasive materials.
Tip 3: Rotation Prolongs Lifespan
Avoid excessive wear on any single pair. Rotating sneakers allows materials to recover and minimizes wear and tear, extending their lifespan and preserving their condition.
Tip 4: Protect from the Elements
Limit exposure to harsh weather conditions. Rain, snow, and excessive heat can damage materials and compromise structural integrity. Consider protective sprays designed for sneakers to repel moisture and stains.
Tip 5: Authentication Verification Protects Investments
Verify the authenticity of purchases, especially for high-value sneakers. Counterfeit products are prevalent in the market. Utilizing reputable authentication services protects investments and ensures the legitimacy of the collection.
Tip 6: Documentation Supports Value
Maintain records of purchases, including receipts, authentication documentation, and condition reports. Thorough documentation supports provenance and substantiates value, particularly for insurance purposes or resale.
Tip 7: Handle with Care
Avoid unnecessary handling and minimize contact with surfaces that could cause damage or discoloration. When handling, support the shoe’s structure to maintain its shape and prevent creasing.
Adhering to these guidelines contributes to the long-term preservation of limited-edition sneakers, ensuring they remain valuable assets and cherished collectibles. Consistent care and attention safeguard their condition, protecting investments and preserving their historical and cultural significance.
These preventative measures provide a foundation for maintaining the value and appearance of collectible footwear. The subsequent conclusion will synthesize key takeaways and offer final recommendations.
Conclusion
Exploration of the Air Jordan 45 Flight High Concord Red reveals a complex interplay of factors contributing to its significance within sneaker culture. Analysis of its constituent elementsmodel, colorway, era, associated athlete, rarity, design, and material compositionilluminates its position within the broader historical narrative of athletic footwear. Limited release strategies contribute significantly to market dynamics, impacting collectibility and value appreciation. The shoe’s connection to Michael Jordan’s legacy and the iconic “Concord” colorway further amplify its cultural relevance.
The Air Jordan 45 Flight High Concord Red serves as a microcosm of the forces shaping the sneaker market and collecting landscape. Careful consideration of these factors informs collecting practices, preservation strategies, and market analysis. Continued examination of these dynamics contributes to a deeper understanding of the cultural, historical, and economic forces at play within the ever-evolving world of athletic footwear.
