FORGED IN FLIGHT. The Air Jordan 9 Retro Boot combines elements from the Special Field Boot and MJ's iconic ninth signature game shoe, originally designed by Tinker Hatfield and released in 1993. The rugged design is built to handle rough weather without breaking from its classic style. It's outfitted with durable leather in the upper, a gusseted tongue, metal eyelets and heavy tread. Air Zoom cushioning in the heel and forefoot add a bouncy buffer between your feet and the ground beneath you.