Originally released in 1996, the Air More Uptempo is known most for the striking way in which the word “Air” is inscribed onto the upper as well as the blow molded visible Air Sole units. It was worn by Bulls star Scottie Pippen on his way to his fourth NBA title, sixth All-Star Game, and 1996 Olympic gold medal.

On the unusual design of the shoe, Pippen has commented that at first, “I was pretty shocked. I thought it was a little overwhelming. But I felt like it was something I could handle on the basketball court because I was very confident in the way that I was playing … It was kind of the graffiti basketball shoe — making a statement in real big letters. So it stood on its own.”