Rare Jordan 12 Air Jordan XII (1996) The Jordan XII was a completely new design for Air Jordan shoes with ribbed leather that matched and blended with the midsoles. This unique design was inspired by the flag of the Japanese Army & Navy in which the red circle is surrounded by a sunset. The Jordan XII was the most durable Air Jordan to date, but they did have one major flaw. The Jordan XII attracted dirt easily and were hard to clean. In September 1997 Nike decided to launch a new sub-brand of Nike called Jordan Brand. The Jordan XII was the first Jordan shoe of the new Jordan brand and was also the first Air Jordan that did not have a Nike logo or Swoosh.