Air Jordan 17 Low “Lightning” Returns

Jordan Brand is finally bringing back the Air Jordan 17.

The AJ17 originally launched during the ’01-’02 NBA season, when Michael Jordan returned following his second hiatus to play with the Washington Wizards. Besides its on-court history, the AJ17 is remembered for its high retail price ($200 was a lot in 2002), and for its peculiar packaging. The shoes came in a metallic silver suitcase alongside a promotional CD-rom.

The Air Jordan 17 has re-appeared throughout the years for special releases, such as in 2008 for the Countdown Pack, and more recently, limited editions collabs with SoleFly and Trophy Room. However, OG colorways have yet to make their return, that is, until now.

Kicking off the return of the Air Jordan 17 in 2024 is the release of the Air Jordan 17 Low “Lightning.” This colorway is fondly remembered as the shoe Michael Jordan wore during the 2002 All-Star Game.

The 2024 retro of the Air Jordan 17 Low “Lightning” looks virtually the same as the 2002 OG. White leather uppers are paired with a black Dynamic Fit inner sleeve. Bright pops of Lightning yellow are found on the toe cap and midfoot shank. The model’s signature chrome hits are found on the top eyelets and around the heel.

Interestingly, the 2024 Air Jordan 17 Low “Lightning” will come in the same silver briefcase that the OG Air Jordan 17s came in, even though the 17 Lows did not come with this special packaging when they released in 2002. This may help justify the new $300 price point.

Other Jordan 17 colorways expected to return in 2024 include the “University Blue” Low and OG “Varsity Red.” There is also a rumored A Ma Maniére collab on the Air Jordan 17 Low on the way that is reportedly tied to the retailer’s new Beach resort.

The Air Jordan 17 Low “Lightning” officially drops on May 30th. These will be available at Jordan NHBD retailers only and will not receive a SNKRS release. UNION LA will have an exclusive in-store early launch of May 25th.

Check out the official images below.

Air Jordan 17 Low “Lightning”
Color: White/Lightning-Black-Chrome
Style Code: FJ0395-100
Release Date: May 30, 2024
Price: $300 USD
Resell: StockX

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Union Los Angeles (@unionlosangeles)