The Air Jordans 12 was released in 1996/1997. And in this season Jordan was bounced off the MVP throne by Karl Malone. But Jordan took his revenge in the finals though, and led the Chicago Bulls to win the Finals Championship. The Air Jordans 12 was again something totally new in its design. Air Jordans 12's unique design was partly inspired by "Nisshoki", the Japanese flag in which the red circle is surrounded by a "sunset". Though the Air Jordans 12 is not as light as previous Air Jordans, the construction and firmness of this shoe is widely considered to be the most durable and sturdy shoes from the Air Jordans line ever made. Air Jordans 12 was one of the most durable Air Jordans to date. Nike launched the Jordan Brand in 1997, and the Air Jordans 12 became the first Air Jordans that didn't have a swoosh or Nike logo on the shoes. The Air Jordans 12 is perfect! The Air Jordan 12 (XII) Original (OG) - Playoffs (Black / Varsity Red) were released in 1997, and retailed for $135. They feature a black and red color scheme, which are official colors of the Chicago Bulls. The arch features two large rands, which run along the midsole, and feature embossed lizard skin, similar to the Air Jordan 2 (II). The purpose of these rands is to provides some sort of structural support to the uppers. The outsole of the shoe features a modified herringbone pattern, which provides great traction and grip. They also feature Nike's patented Zoom Air technology, providing added cushioning, and were the first Air Jordans to do so.