You’ve seen them on the street or glowing under the harsh LED lights of a resale shop. That shimmering, almost liquid-gold mudguard wrapped around a pristine white leather upper. It’s a look that stops people in their tracks. But honestly, if you call them the "jordan 13 gold and white," you’re only scratching the surface of what this sneaker actually represents.
Most people are actually looking for the Air Jordan 13 "Defining Moments Pack" (DMP).
Released back in June 2017, this shoe wasn't just another colorway tossed onto a shelf to meet a quarterly goal. It was a victory lap. It’s a physical manifestation of the 1998 NBA Finals—the "Last Dance" for the Chicago Bulls dynasty. While the 13s are often associated with the "He Got Game" or "Bred" versions, the white and gold iteration is the one that leans into the prestige of Michael Jordan's sixth and final ring.
📖 Related: Why the Designer Leather Backpack Purse Is Actually Better Than Your Tote
The Story Behind the Gold
Why gold? It’s not just because it looks flashy.
The jordan 13 gold and white was designed to celebrate the Larry O’Brien Trophy. When Jordan stepped onto the court in 1998, he actually toggled between the Jordan 13 and the Jordan 14. This specific pair honors that transition. If you look closely at the "cat eye" hologram on the ankle—the signature feature of any 13—you’ll notice something different on the DMP version. Instead of the usual Jumpman and "23," it features the number "98" and an image of Jordan.
It's those tiny, nerdy details that drive collectors wild.
Inside the tongue, there's a hidden message. One side reads "They Can't Win," and the other says "Until We Quit." It’s a quote that basically sums up the psychological warfare Jordan played with the rest of the league. He wasn't just better; he was inevitable.
Is a 2026 Restock Happening?
If you’re hunting for a retail pair right now, I have some news.
Currently, in early 2026, the rumor mill is buzzing, but not necessarily about a straight re-release of the 2017 DMP. We know the original "Chicago" 13 is slated for March 13, 2026, and the "Flint" 13 is expected in June. But the white and gold? That remains a white whale for many.
Because it was originally released in a two-shoe pack alongside a black and gold Jordan 14, finding a "deadstock" (brand new) pair means either shelling out for the full $500+ pack or finding a reputable reseller who broke the pack apart.
Spotting a Fake in the Wild
Kinda scary how good the "reps" have gotten lately. Since the jordan 13 gold and white uses metallic patent leather, that’s usually the first place to check.
On an authentic pair, the gold mudguard should have a deep, reflective luster. It shouldn't look like cheap yellow plastic. The "dimples" on the white leather upper should be deep and well-defined, not shallow or faint. And that hologram? It should be crisp. If the "98" looks blurry or the transition between the images is muddy, you’re likely looking at a fugazi.
How to Style Them Without Looking Like a Trophy
Let's be real: wearing gold shoes is a choice.
👉 See also: Why Abide With Me Lyrics Still Hit So Hard After 170 Years
You’ve got to let the sneakers do the heavy lifting. If you wear them with a metallic gold tracksuit, you’re going to look like a C-3PO cosplayer.
- Go Neutral: Black joggers or slim-fit raw denim allow the gold to pop without clashing.
- The Sock Choice: Clean white crew socks are the standard. Don't overthink it.
- Vintage Vibes: A vintage Bulls tee with just a hint of red can tie the "Defining Moments" theme together without being too "matchy-matchy."
The varsity red accents on the outsole of the jordan 13 gold and white are subtle, but they provide a nice anchor if you want to pull in a little bit of red elsewhere in your outfit.
The Investment Value
Sneaker prices are a roller coaster.
In 2017, people complained about the $500 price tag for the pack. Now? You’d be lucky to find the 13s alone for under $350 in good condition. The metallic gold finish is notoriously hard to keep perfect—it can crack if stored in a hot attic or peel if you’re too aggressive with the cleaning brush.
If you own a pair, keep them in a cool, dry place. Honestly, use shoe trees. The 13 has a relatively high toe box that can look like a crumpled napkin if you don't maintain the shape.
What to Do Next
If you're serious about adding this piece of history to your rotation, don't just jump on the first "steal" you see on a random marketplace.
- Check Verification Services: Stick to platforms like GOAT, StockX, or eBay’s Authenticity Guarantee. The gold patent leather is a high-risk material for fakes.
- Inspect the Hologram: Ask for a video of the ankle jewel. It needs to "flip" cleanly between the images.
- Watch the 2026 Calendar: While the DMP isn't confirmed for a solo return this year, Jordan Brand loves surprise "Shock Drops" via the SNKRS app, especially around championship anniversaries.
Owning the jordan 13 gold and white is about more than just a color scheme. It's about owning the final chapter of the greatest run in basketball history. Treat them with respect, keep the gold shiny, and definitely don't wear them in the rain.