Jordan 12
(GS) Air Jordan 12 Retro ‘Flu Game’ 2016 Review: A Legendary Story in Every Step
Introduction
Some sneakers are just sneakers—others are history. The Air Jordan 12 Retro ‘Flu Game’ is the latter. Inspired by Michael Jordan’s legendary performance during Game 5 of the 1997 NBA Finals, where he battled illness and still dropped 38 points, this colorway became instantly immortalized.
The 2016 (GS) re-release brings that legacy to younger sneaker fans and collectors, preserving every detail in a bold, black-and-red silhouette. This pair isn’t just a throwback—it’s a timeless reminder of resilience, dominance, and iconic style.
Design: Bold, Battle-Tested Aesthetics
The Flu Game colorway is instantly recognizable thanks to its aggressive use of black and varsity red, paying homage to the Chicago Bulls while reflecting MJ’s warrior mentality. The (GS) version keeps all the key visuals intact from the men’s sizing—just scaled down.
Key Design Elements:
- Textured black leather upper with stitched panels
- Red pebbled leather mudguard that wraps the entire forefoot
- Jumpman branding on tongue, heel, and outsole
- Metallic lace eyelets add subtle detail and durability
- Heel tag with “23” and “Jordan” branding as a signature touch
The color blocking is aggressive yet clean, making this one of the most fashionable sneakers in the Jordan 12 lineup.
Material & Craftsmanship
Nike ensured that the (GS) Flu Game maintained premium craftsmanship, even in youth sizing. The mix of materials—smooth leather, pebbled overlays, and carbon fiber-inspired detailing—creates a tactile and visual richness rarely seen in kids’ releases.
Material Breakdown:
- Upper: Full-grain leather with stitched paneling for structure
- Mudguard: Tumbled leather in varsity red with excellent texture
- Midsole: Phylon foam with full-length Zoom Air for impact protection
- Outsole: Solid rubber with herringbone traction pattern
- Heel Tab: Rubber pull tab with Jordan and “23” branding
For fans of authentic Nike shoes, this release stays true to the quality and legacy of the OG.
Comfort & Performance
Originally designed for elite on-court performance, the Air Jordan 12 Retro still holds its own in comfort—even off the hardwood. With its Zoom Air cushioning, this sneaker offers more responsiveness than many other retro Jordans.
Comfort Features:
- Full-length Zoom Air unit gives soft, responsive cushioning
- Padded ankle collar offers support without stiffness
- Foam midsole ensures shock absorption and comfort for all-day wear
- Fit: True to size; snug in midfoot but flexible at toe box
While its chunky profile may not be for everyone, wearers will appreciate how solid and secure it feels—especially compared to other GS models.
Style Versatility
Despite its bold red-and-black palette, the Flu Game 12 pairs surprisingly well with everyday streetwear and sporty looks. It’s a statement sneaker—but one that complements rather than overwhelms.
Styling Suggestions:
- Casual streetwear: Joggers, zip hoodie, and varsity jacket
- All-black outfits: Let the red pop from the ground up
- Basketball-inspired fits: Mesh shorts, oversized tee, and crew socks
- Monochrome layering: Black denim with a red flannel for symmetry
A classic Bulls colorway like this remains timeless—whether you’re heading to class or out on the weekend.
Who Should Buy the GS Flu Game 12?
This sneaker is perfect for:
- Young Jordan fans discovering retro heat
- Collectors building their GS rotation
- Parents gifting a meaningful sneaker with history
- Style-conscious youth who want something bold and iconic
- Sneakerheads looking to match with a men’s Flu Game pair
It bridges generations by connecting basketball lore with modern street fashion.
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Iconic design with deep basketball history | Slightly bulky for those who prefer slim sneakers |
| Great materials and build even in GS sizing | Creases easily with extended wear |
| Full-length Zoom Air for comfort and performance | Can feel stiff at first break-in |
| Versatile in streetwear and athletic looks | Not ideal for hot weather due to leather build |
Comparison Table
| Sneaker | Legacy Factor | Compared to GS Flu Game 12 |
|---|---|---|
| GS Air Jordan 1 Mid ‘Chicago’ | Classic AJ1 style | More lightweight, less padded |
| GS Air Jordan 11 ‘Bred’ | Glossy upper + championship story | AJ12 has more structure and more aggressive stance |
| Nike Dunk Low GS ‘Panda’ | Everyday versatility | AJ12 is more iconic, less minimal |
| GS Air Jordan 4 ‘Black Cat’ | Triple black stealth | Flu Game 12 is bolder and more storytelling-focused |
Where to Buy
To own a piece of Jordan history in a wearable size, you can secure the (GS) Air Jordan 12 Retro ‘Flu Game’ 2016 from trusted platforms below:
- TheenStyle – Reliable drops and authentic Jordan GS sizing
- StockX – Real-time pricing and verified pairs
- GOAT – Ideal for comparing new and used pairs with condition details
Use Style Code: 153265-002 to find the correct listings online.
Final Verdict
The (GS) Air Jordan 12 Retro ‘Flu Game’ 2016 isn’t just a sneaker—it’s a moment in basketball history, retold through leather and laces. With its striking colorway, quality materials, and legendary backstory, it’s a perfect blend of performance and style.
Historic. Bold. Unforgettable.
If you’re looking for a stylish sneaker with substance and soul, the Flu Game 12 brings it all—shrunk to fit young icons in the making.