World luxury sneakers both art and history and fashion. Rare, iconic and culturally important the most expensive sneakers fetched staggering prices at auctions. Let’s take a closer look at the ten most expensive sneakers ever sold, along with their approximate value in Indian Rupees (INR) and US Dollars (USD).
Dynasty Collection – Rs 66 crore ($8 million)
The Dynasty Collection is a set of six Air Jordan sneakers worn by Michael Jordan during his six NBA Championship wins between 1991 and 1998. Each sneaker represents a pivotal moment in Jordan’s career and the Chicago Bulls dynasty, making them the ultimate collectible. This Rs 66 crore collection is a testament to Jordan’s unparalleled heritage and the cultural influence of the Air Jordan brand.
“Bred” Air Jordan 13 – INR 18.2 crore ($2.2 million)
Michael Jordan’s “Bred” Air Jordan 13 from the 1998 NBA Finals has immense historical value. These sneakers, worn during the second game of his last championship season with the Chicago Bulls, became the peak of his career. 18.2 crore auction price underlines its status as a cherished part of sports history.
Solid Gold OVO x Air Jordans – 16.5 crores ($2 million)
Created by artist Matthew Cena in collaboration with Drake, the solid gold OVO x Air Jordans redefine luxury footwear. Crafted from 24k gold and weighing over 50 pounds each, these shoes are a combination of art and opulence. Priced at INR 16.5 crore, they show how sneakers can transcend functionality and become works of art.
Kanye West Nike Air Yeezy 1 “Prototype” – 14.8 crores ($1.8 million)
Kanye West’s Nike Air Yeezy 1 ‘Prototype’ debuted during his electrifying performance at the 2008 Grammys, which marked the launch of the Yeezy brand. These sneakers bridged the gap between streetwear and luxury fashion, cementing Kanye’s influence in the sneaker world. In 2021, it was auctioned for INR 14.8 crore, cementing its place in history.
Game-Worn ‘Flu Game’ Air Jordan 12 – 11.4 crores ($1.38 million)
Few sneakers carry as much symbolic weight as the “Flu Game” Air Jordan 12. Worn by Michael Jordan during his iconic 1997 NBA Finals performance while battling illness, this shoe epitomizes determination and excellence. Its 11.4 crore sale reflects its legendary status in both sports and sneaker culture.
Michael Jordan’s Used Nike Airship – 12.2 Crores ($1.47 Million)
The Nike Airship, worn by Michael Jordan in the early days of his NBA career, is a cornerstone in sneaker history. As the forerunner of the Air Jordan line, this pair laid the groundwork for a global phenomenon. Auctioned for Rs 12.2 crore, it is a precious piece of basketball heritage.
Nike Air Jordan 1 Retro ‘Kobe Pack’ – 6.6 crores ($800,000)
Designed in the colors of the Los Angeles Lakers, the “Kobe Pack” Air Jordan 1s were made exclusively for Kobe Bryant during his sneaker free agency in the early 2000s. This rare sneaker honors the legacy of two basketball icons, making it a sought-after collector’s item with a price tag of Rs 6.6 crore.
“Shattered Backboard” Air Jordan 1 – 5 crores ($615,000)
The Air Jordan 1 ‘Shattered Backboard’ celebrates Michael Jordan’s legendary backboard-shattering dunk during a 1985 exhibition game in Italy. Featuring a vibrant orange, black and white design, these sneakers capture a moment in basketball folklore. It was sold for Rs 5 crore, cementing its place in sneaker history.
Air Jordan 1 “Chicago” Game Worn – ₹4.6 crore ($560,000)
The Air Jordan 1 ‘Chicago’ worn by Michael Jordan in 1985 is an iconic part of sports and fashion history. Its bold red, black and white colors symbolize the beginning of Jordan’s heritage. Auctioned for Rs 4.6 crore, they remain one of the most recognizable and valuable sneakers in the world.
Nike ‘Moon Shoe’ – ₹3.6 crore ($437,500)
Designed by Nike co-founder Bill Bowerman for the 1972 Olympic Games, the Nike ‘Moon Shoe’ is part innovation and part history. With a waffle sole, these handmade sneakers have revolutionized running shoes. Its price tag of 3.6 crore reflects its status as one of Nike’s earliest and most innovative designs.
These sneakers are more than just shoes; they are symbols of art, history and culture. Their staggering prices reflect their rarity and the stories they carry, proving that the right pair of sneakers can be a timeless treasure.
