If you had to spell Chicago with a sneaker, it would be the Air Jordan 11 ‘Cherry’ (Style Code: CT8012-116). These red-and-white retros aren't one of the OG colorways, but looking at them, they probably should've been. Originally released in December 2022 as the crown jewel of Jordan Brand's annual holiday lineup, the ‘Cherry’ 11s were an instant hit. Years later, they remain one of the best colorways ever to touch Tinker Hatfield's legendary creation. Let's get into it.
Key Facts at A Glance
Key Facts |
Details |
Sneaker |
Air Jordan 11 Retro ‘Cherry’ |
Release Date |
December 10, 2022 |
Retail Price |
$225 |
Style Code |
CT8012-116 |
Colorway |
White/Varsity Red/Black |
What Makes the Air Jordan 11 ‘Cherry’ Stand Out?
Air Jordan 11s have always stood out for their glossy patent leather mudguard and precision color blocking. This 2022 iteration takes both of those elements to another level, delivering a premium retro that rivals the OGs.
The Air Jordan 11 ‘Cherry’ pairs a white ballistic mesh upper with a Varsity Red patent leather mudguard and matching Jumpman branding. A white Phylon midsole with full-length Air cushioning sits atop an icy translucent rubber outsole, while the iconic "23" on the heel serves as the cherry on top of a simple yet spectacular design.
Why The Air Jordan 11 ‘Cherry’ Matters
When the Air Jordan 11 ‘Cherry’ (Style Code: CT8012-116) dropped in 2022, it marked the first time the colorway appeared in a high-top. Before that, 'Cherry' only existed on the Air Jordan 11 Low. As an Air Jordan 11 enthusiast, I love a low-top, but when I saw the ‘Cherry’ in its traditional high-cut form, it hit harder than prime Mike Tyson.
House of Heat h/t Shoe Sagas
Largely regarded as one of the best non-OG Air Jordan 11s ever, the ‘Cherry’ perfectly captures Chicago Bulls energy with a colorway that resembles the team's iconic home jerseys. Even without being an original release, it has earned its place among the most stylish and wearable Air Jordan 11s ever made.
Where Can You Buy the Air Jordan 11 ‘Cherry’ Now?
Due to their overwhelming popularity, the Air Jordan 11 ‘Cherry’ is one of the most counterfeited sneakers I've ever seen. If you're in the market for an authentic pair, trusted resale platforms like Flight Club, StockX, and GOAT offer verified listings.
What you'll pay depends on the size and seller, but prices currently range from around $246 to over $400. Below are direct links so you can check availability in your size.
- Buy them on Flight Club
- Buy them on GOAT
- Buy them on Stock
Should You Buy the Air Jordan 11 ‘Cherry’?
The answer is an emphatic yes. Depending on your size, you might even be able to snag a pair close to retail. With current sneakers like the Air Jordan 7 ‘Miro’ set to release at $255 and the AJ8 ‘BIN 23’ costing an elevated $355, paying a little over the original $225 retail price does not seem bad.
When I got my Air Jordan 11 ‘Cherry’ in 2022, I was genuinely surprised by how much better they looked in person. As a premium sneaker, the white-and-red color blocking gives them an OG feel, making them a natural addition to any Air Jordan 11 collection.
