Hey sneaker fans, I’m excited to share my thoughts on one of the most legendary sneakers ever made—the Air Jordan 12 Retro “Flu Game”. This shoe isn’t just about style; it’s about a story of courage and an unforgettable moment in sports history. After nine years, this iconic colorway is back, and I’ve got a full Air Jordan 12 Retro “Flu Game” review for you. We’ll cover everything from its premium materials and design specs to my honest take on comfort and sizing. If you’re wondering whether this release is worth adding to your collection, you’ve come to the right place.
The Legend of the “Flu Game”
Every great sneaker has a story, but few are as powerful as the Air Jordan 12’s. The legend began during the 1997 NBA Finals. The Chicago Bulls were battling the Utah Jazz, with the series tied at two games apiece. The night before Game 5, Michael Jordan became seriously ill with what was initially believed to be the flu. Years later, we learned it was actually food poisoning from a late-night pizza delivery. Regardless of the cause, Jordan was in a bad way—feverish, dehydrated, and weak.
Despite his condition, he famously laced up his black and red Air Jordan 12s and stepped onto the court. What followed was a performance for the ages. Jordan scored 38 points, grabbed 7 rebounds, and dished out 5 assists, all while struggling to stay on his feet. The image of Scottie Pippen helping him off the court became one of the most iconic moments in sports history.
The Bulls went on to win the game, and eventually the championship. From that day on, those black and red sneakers were forever christened the “Flu Game” 12s. This story of perseverance and courage is what makes this shoe a must-have for any true fan.
Specifications and Key Features of the Jordan 12 “Flu Game”
The Air Jordan 12 Retro “Flu Game” is a marvel of both design and performance technology, a testament to Jordan Brand’s craftsmanship. The silhouette, inspired by the Japanese Rising Sun flag, is bold and unique.
Here are some of the key features and specifications that make this shoe stand out:
Specifications
- Colorway: Black / Varsity Red
- Style Code: CT8013-006
- Original Release Date: November 1997
- Latest Release Date: March 1st, 2025
- Retail Price: $210 (Men’s)
- Sizing: True to Size (TTS)
Key Features
- Upper: The sneaker features a premium tumbled black leather upper, which provides a plush, comfortable feel. The radial stitching across the side panels mimics the sun’s rays and adds a distinct visual flair. The mudguard is crafted from a durable varsity red leather with a texture that some call “basketball grain” or “reptilian,” giving it a premium and rugged look.
- Midsole and Cushioning: The Air Jordan 12 was a groundbreaking shoe for its time. It was the very first Air Jordan signature model to feature a full-length Zoom Air unit, which is nestled within a phylon foam midsole. This setup delivers incredibly responsive and low-profile cushioning, making it a favorite for both on-court performance and off-court comfort.
- Outsole: The outsole is made from a combination of black and red rubber pods with a classic herringbone traction pattern. This design provides excellent multi-directional grip. The Jumpman logo and the number 23 are prominently featured on the bottom, adding to the shoe’s classic appeal.
- Support: A key feature is the visible carbon fiber shank plate, located in the midfoot. This plate provides crucial torsional rigidity and arch support, helping to prevent the shoe from twisting during aggressive movements.
- Branding and Details: The shoe is full of subtle yet iconic branding. On the tongue, the words “TWO 3” are embroidered down the center with a red Jumpman logo at the top. The heel pull tab reads “Jordan Quality Inspired by the Greatest Player Ever” and features the number 23 underneath, a nod to Jordan’s legacy.
Air Jordan 12 Retro “Flu Game” Review: Pros and Cons
No sneaker is perfect, and it’s important to be realistic about what you’re getting. Here’s a quick rundown of the pros and cons of the Air Jordan 12 Retro “Flu Game”:
Pros:
- Iconic Colorway & History: The story behind the shoe is legendary, making it a must-have for any true fan.
- Premium Materials: The quality of the leather and construction on this 2025 retro is excellent and a step up from previous versions.
- Classic Design: The unique design, inspired by the Rising Sun flag, is timeless and a standout silhouette in the Jordan catalog.
- Full-Length Zoom Air: The cushioning technology is still top-tier and provides a comfortable, responsive feel underfoot.
- Attention to Detail: The return to OG-style packaging and a more accurate shape show a genuine commitment to recreating the original.
Cons:
- Break-in Period: Due to the shoe’s sturdy build and leather materials, it can feel stiff and a bit clunky at first. It takes some time to break in and mold to your foot.
- Heavier Feel: Compared to modern performance sneakers, the Air Jordan 12 is on the heavier side, which may not appeal to everyone.
- Limited Availability: While not an extremely limited release, the high demand for this iconic colorway means it can still be difficult to get your hands on a pair.
2025 vs. 2016 Retro: A Head-to-Head Comparison
If you’re wondering how this latest Air Jordan 12 Retro “Flu Game” stacks up against its predecessors, you’re not alone. Many collectors have been eager to see the differences, especially compared to the 2016 retro. I’ve had a chance to examine both, and the improvements in the 2025 version are notable.
First, let’s talk about the overall shape and build. The 2025 model has a slightly sleeker, more refined silhouette that feels truer to the 1997 original. The toebox, in particular, is more rounded and less bulky than the 2016 version. This small change makes a huge difference in how the shoe looks on foot.
The materials are another key point of comparison. While the 2016 retro also used tumbled leather, the quality of the leather and the vibrancy of the red on the 2025 pair feel superior. The newer version’s red leather has a richer hue and a more pronounced texture. The black tumbled leather also feels more premium to the touch.
Finally, the packaging on the 2025 retro is a fantastic nod to the shoe’s origins. It comes in a classic brown Nike box with a black Swoosh and red trim—the same style used for the original 1997 release. The 2016 version came in a standard black Jordan Brand box, which felt less special. These little details show that Jordan Brand is truly listening to collectors and making an effort to bring back the original experience.
How to style the “Flu Game” 12s
The Air Jordan 12 Retro “Flu Game” isn’t just for collectors; it’s a versatile sneaker that can elevate any outfit. Its classic black and red colorway is easy to pair with both casual and sporty looks. For a clean, timeless vibe, try rocking them with a pair of slim-fit black jeans or comfortable joggers.
The dark tones of the shoe will complement a simple white or black tee. If you want to lean into the shoe’s history, throw on a vintage-style Chicago Bulls jersey or a graphic t-shirt with red accents. The bold color blocking makes a statement on its own, so you don’t need to overdo it. The key is to let the sneakers be the centerpiece of your fit.
FAQs
Here are some of the most common questions I’ve seen about the Air Jordan 12 Retro “Flu Game”:
Does the Air Jordan 12 “Flu Game” fit true to size?
A: Yes, for most people, the Air Jordan 12 fits true to size. I’d recommend sticking with your usual size. However, if you have very narrow feet or prefer a super snug, one-to-one fit, you might consider going down half a size.
Is the new 2025 retro comfortable for all-day wear?
A: The Air Jordan 12 is built for performance and durability. While the full-length Zoom Air provides great cushioning, the shoe’s weight and solid construction can take some getting used to. It’s a great shoe for casual wear, but may not be the best for long walks right out of the box.
Why are the Jordan 12s called the “Flu Game”?
The nickname comes from Michael Jordan’s iconic performance in Game 5 of the 1997 NBA Finals. Despite battling severe flu-like symptoms (later confirmed to be food poisoning), he wore his black and red Air Jordan 12s and scored 38 points to lead the Bulls to victory. The heroic performance cemented the shoe’s legacy and gave it its famous name.
How many pairs of Jordan 12 “Flu Games” were made?
The exact production number for the Air Jordan 12 Retro “Flu Game” is not publicly disclosed by Nike or Jordan Brand. However, this colorway is highly sought after, and while there were a decent number of pairs available, they sold out quickly due to immense demand. The resale value remains a testament to its popularity.
Final Thoughts
The Air Jordan 12 Retro “Flu Game” review shows that this isn’t just another retro release; it’s a meticulously crafted tribute to a timeless moment. Jordan Brand truly delivered, giving us a shoe that honors its legacy with premium materials, an improved shape, and authentic packaging. If you’re a collector or a fan of the story, this is a must-cop.
Looking to get your hands on the Air Jordan 12 Retro “Flu Game” or other hard-to-find sneakers? I’m here to help.
Contact me directly on WhatsApp for insider tips and to discuss pre-orders or other sneaker-related services. Don’t miss out on this iconic release!
