Jordan 12
Air Jordan 12 Retro ‘Taxi’ 2013 Review: A Timeless OG Returns in True Form
Introduction
Few sneakers carry the weight of history like the Air Jordan 12 Retro ‘Taxi’. First debuted in 1996 and famously worn by Michael Jordan during the 1996–97 NBA season, the ‘Taxi’ colorway represents one of the most iconic original Jordan releases. With the 2013 retro, Jordan Brand gave fans another chance to grab a pair of these timeless kicks, staying true to the original design while updating comfort and quality.
Whether you’re a sneaker purist, a basketball fan, or someone searching for stylish sneakers that stand the test of time, the Air Jordan 12 ‘Taxi’ 2013 is a must-know release.
Design Overview: White, Black & Bold History
The Air Jordan 12 ‘Taxi’ features a bold and minimalist color scheme: white leather upper, black mudguard, and golden eyelets that pop just enough.
Design Highlights:
- Premium white tumbled leather upper with signature stitched sunburst pattern
- Contrasting black pebbled leather mudguard wrapping around the shoe
- Metallic gold eyelets for a luxurious touch
- Red Jumpman logo and Taxi-colored tabs on the heel
- Carbon fiber shank plate with black outsole
Everything about the design screams retro Jordan elegance—with a strong visual identity that remains unforgettable.
Materials & Build Quality
The 2013 edition remains one of the better retros in terms of build quality—durable and performance-focused, as originally intended.
- Full-grain leather upper offers a premium feel and structure
- Textured black leather on the mudguard gives depth and contrast
- Full-length Zoom Air cushioning provides responsiveness and support
- Carbon fiber arch plate enhances midfoot stability
- Rubber herringbone outsole ensures grip and durability
From playgrounds to streetwear collections, the ‘Taxi’ holds up beautifully.
Comfort & Fit
While retro in design, the comfort and build of the Air Jordan 12 Retro ‘Taxi’ are surprisingly modern.
Fit and Feel:
- True to size for most wearers
- Padded tongue and collar enhance comfort around the ankle
- Zoom Air unit delivers plush cushioning
- Good lockdown with traditional lacing system and structured leather
Whether on-court or off, the AJ12 Taxi offers solid all-day wear with retro performance DNA.
Who Should Cop the AJ12 Taxi?
The 2013 Air Jordan 12 Retro ‘Taxi’ is not just for collectors—it’s also great for those who appreciate timeless, high-quality sneakers.
Ideal for:
- Sneaker collectors who want OG Jordan colorways
- Fans of authentic Nike shoes with historical value
- Those building a fashionable sneaker rotation
- Anyone who appreciates bold yet wearable colorways
Styling the Taxi 12s
This sneaker is surprisingly versatile despite its high-contrast look. The white and black base allows it to pair well with a range of outfits.
Style Tips:
- Pair with black joggers or track pants for a clean streetwear look
- Match with denim and a bomber jacket for retro vibes
- Add gold or red accents to echo the detailing
- Wear with athleisure fits for modern athletic style
The AJ12 Taxi can go from classic to contemporary with ease.
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| OG colorway with deep Jordan legacy | Can be pricey on the resale market |
| Premium leather and full-length Zoom cushioning | Leather may require upkeep to stay bright |
| Easy to style, bold yet versatile | May feel stiff out of the box due to structured leather |
| Strong collector appeal and resale value | Heavier than modern sneaker designs |
Where to Buy
Since this is a 2013 release, retail pairs are long gone—but authentic pairs are still available on trusted marketplaces.
- TheenStyle – Offers authentic retros including limited Air Jordan releases
- StockX – Real-time pricing and authentication for sneaker collectors
- GOAT – New and pre-owned pairs with verification and buyer protection
Be sure to verify condition and sizing before buying from resale platforms.
Final Verdict
The Air Jordan 12 Retro ‘Taxi’ (2013) stands tall as one of the cleanest and most iconic OG Jordan colorways ever released. With a rich backstory, premium construction, and unmatched styling power, it remains a top-tier sneaker even a decade after its release.
Bold. Timeless. Legendary. The Taxi AJ12 is a must-have for serious sneakerheads.