Boyz II Men have brought fresh attention to the Air Jordan 11 after wearing their own exclusive pairs during MLB All-Star festivities in Philadelphia. The group’s connection to the model has long been tied to the story of them pairing the sneakers with suits, helping prove that Michael Jordan and Tinker Hatfield’s formal-inspired design could work beyond the basketball court.
Their latest pairs were created through a detailed sampling process that included several very different takes on the classic black-and-white color scheme. Boyz II Men ultimately selected a design with a black upper, white patent leather mudguard and icy translucent accents, but Jordan Brand gave them plenty of other options to consider.
New behind-the-scenes footage offers a closer look at those unused samples. Some featured molded sound-wave patterns across the upper, while others experimented with polka dots, flannel prints and alternate color blocking around the collar. Each version remained mostly black and white, keeping the collection connected even as the materials and patterns changed.
One detail appeared across the entire lineup. The traditional sideways “JUMPMAN” lettering near the ankle was replaced with “BOYZ II MEN,” giving every sample a personal finish made specifically for the legendary R&B group.
Check out the full behind-the-scenes video below for a closer look at the design and selection process.
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