So, the Jordan 11 Low Space Jam finally happened. For years, it felt like one of those "urban legend" colorways that Nike just wouldn't pull the trigger on. We saw the high-tops in 2000, 2009, and that massive 2016 remaster. We even got that weird IE version in 2019 that basically looked like a different shoe entirely. But the actual, patent-leather-dripping Jordan 11 Low Space Jam? It took until May 18, 2024, to officially hit the pavement.
Honestly, the hype was weird on this one. Some purists hated the idea of a low-top "Grail" colorway. Others—mostly people who actually have to walk around in their shoes all day—were ecstatic. You’ve probably noticed that high-top 11s can feel like wearing ski boots after four hours. The low-top version basically solves that while keeping the "movie star" energy.
The Details People Miss
Most people look at this shoe and just see "black and blue." But if you’re a real nerd about this stuff, there are a few things that make the Jordan 11 Low Space Jam stand out from the 2016 high-top release.
First off, let’s talk about the blue. It’s "Varsity Royal." If you look at the 2016 high-tops, those used "Dark Concord," which has a distinct purple tint. Why the change? Because the original 2000 retro and the actual shoes Michael Jordan wore in the Space Jam movie leaned more into that true blue. It's a subtle nod to the history of the colorway, rather than the 1995 "Concord" PE (Player Exclusive) that Jordan wore against the Magic.
The materials are exactly what you'd expect, but the execution feels tighter. You've got:
- Ballistic Mesh: The same durable stuff from the OGs.
- Patent Leather: It’s cut high on the mudguard, similar to the "Remastered" shape we’ve seen lately.
- The Sole: It’s that icy, translucent blue that looks incredible for exactly three weeks before it starts to turn yellow. That's just the tax you pay for greatness.
- The Heel: You get a white embroidered "23" instead of the "45" we saw on the 2016 pairs.
It’s a clean look. Period.
Why the Low-Top Version is Actually Better
Look, I love a high-top 11 as much as the next guy. They’re iconic. But unless you’re actually playing in the 1995 Eastern Conference Semifinals, they’re a lot of shoe.
The Jordan 11 Low Space Jam is just more wearable. You can throw these on with shorts and not look like you’re headed to basketball camp. They don’t rub your ankles raw. Plus, the $190 retail price was a bit easier to swallow than the $225+ we usually see for the December 11 High releases.
There's also the "I.E." factor. Back in 2019, Jordan Brand dropped a Space Jam version of the 11 Low I.E. (International Exclusive). It had no patent leather. It had elephant print. It was... fine. But it wasn't this. For the people who wanted the shiny mudguard and the movie-star aesthetic in a summer-ready silhouette, this 2024 release was the long-awaited "W."
Performance vs. Style
Can you hoop in these? Technically, yes. They still have the full-length Air-Sole unit and the carbon fiber shank plate. That plate is actually legit—it provides a ton of stability and "spring" when you're moving.
But let’s be real. Most people buying the Jordan 11 Low Space Jam are wearing them to the mall or a summer BBQ. The patent leather is a magnet for creases if you're doing heavy lateral movements on a court. If you want to play ball, buy some LeBrons. If you want to look like you know your sneaker history, stick to the 11s.
The Resale Reality
If you missed the May 2024 drop, you're looking at the secondary market. The good news? They aren't skyrocketing yet. As of early 2026, you can usually find pairs on StockX or GOAT for somewhere between $220 and $280 depending on the size.
It’s not like the 2016 release where people were literally fighting in malls. The market has cooled off, and Nike produced a decent amount of these. That’s a win for the fans. You can actually get your hands on a "Space Jam" for a relatively "normal" price.
How to Keep Them Fresh
Since you're dropping over $200 on these, don't let them turn into beaters in two months. The Jordan 11 Low Space Jam has two main enemies: dust and oxygen.
The icy sole is going to oxidize. It’s chemistry; you can't stop it, but you can slow it down. Wipe the soles after every wear. Seriously. If you leave dirt and moisture on that translucent rubber, it’ll yellow way faster. For the patent leather, don't use harsh chemicals. A damp microfiber cloth is usually all you need to keep that shine popping.
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Making the Call
Is it worth it? If you grew up watching MJ beat the Monstars, the answer is usually yes. It’s a piece of culture you can wear. It fits better than the highs and looks better than the IEs.
If you're looking to grab a pair now, here is the move:
- Check the Sizing: 11s usually run true to size, but the patent leather doesn't stretch. If you have wide feet, go up half a size.
- Verify Authenticity: If a deal looks too good to be true on eBay, it probably is. Use platforms with a verification process.
- Storage: Keep them in a cool, dry place. Avoid leaving them in a hot car, or that glue holding the patent leather to the midsole might start to give up.
Grab some cedar shoe trees to keep the toe box from collapsing and you're good to go. These aren't just shoes; they're the closest most of us will ever get to being on the Tune Squad.