Whenever the number 45 appears on a Jordan product in place of the customary 23, it's a clear sign that MJ's baseball days are being referenced. The six-time NBA champion famously took a two year hiatus from basketball to pursue his passion for baseball, playing for a minor league affiliate of the Chicago White Sox called the Birmingham Barons and wearing the number 45. During his time with the club, Nike ensured its star athlete could continue to represent the brand in style with a PE edition of the Air Jordan 9, outfitted with baseball cleats and the colors of the Barons. Now the shoe is undergoing its third conversion, as the AJ9 "Barons" makes a first-ever appearance on the golf course in time for spring.
Comparing it to its predecessor, the golf version of the "Barons" colorway shares a number of similarities, with the entirety of the upper and mudguards enveloped in black, allowing the white laces to stand out against the dark backdrop. The number 45 appears embroidered on the heels in a gothic style font, then again on the black and white pinstriped insoles. For those who prefer an all-black look across the instep, a change of laces is provided, and finally Softspikes designed for golf are preferred over molded baseball cleats on the bottoms.
Those looking to add the AJ9 Golf "Baron" to their rotation can expect it to drop on May 17 via Nike for $230 USD.
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