The Air Jordan 12 was release in 1997, Inspired by a women's fashion shoe and the Japanese flag, it was clean and simple. The Jordan retro 12 shoes was widely considered to be the most durable and sturdy shoes from the Air Jordan line. The rich leather upper was stitched to resemble a rising sun, while the toe and accent overlays were made of faux reptile leather. The Air Jordan 12 featured the slogan "TWO 3" down the tongue, metal lace loops with Jumpman logos and a pull tab that ran up the entire heel that read, "QUALITY INSPIRED BY THE GREATEST PLAYER EVER."