Air Jordan XI "Gamma Blue"

I got these shoes when they were released on Saturday December 21st.  I was aware that lots of people were anticipating the release of these shoes when I noted that people on the Wednesday BEFORE the release were already waiting in line.  Keep in mind that week, it was freaking cold, and it rained several times while these people slept on the sidewalk.  When I did pick them up on Saturday, I actually had a confrontation with a fellow "sneakerhead".  Needless to say, I got my shoes and I doubt he got his.  I saw this article from the NY Daily News and there were actually fights that broke out.

http://www.nydailynews.com/news/national/release-nike-air-jordan-gamma-blue-11s-brawls-shoe-stores-nationwide-article-1.1556245

So here we go with the unboxing.

The box was interesting.  It says Jordan on the left in yellow and on the right it says "Jumpman" but you have to look at it sideways.  On the top it is obviously has a 23.

"Gamma Blue"  $185.  Not cheap!

Nice plastic casing.  If you look closely you can see several messages.

"TINKER MAKE THEM SHINE"

This is a reference to the shoe designer Tinker Hatfield.  He is responsible for making one of the most memorable and my favorite Air Jordan shoes to date.

Well, duh!

"YOU MADE THEM ICONIC"

At least they gave credit to all the people that coughed up their hard earned cash to buy these shoes!

The tissue paper was unique and carried the Carbon Fiber theme.

And here we have the first glimpse of the AJ XI "Gamma Blue"

Here we are.  Patent leather!  I like patent leather!

Normally, I do not like non-original colorways, but in this case, 

this is the BEST looking non O.G. colorway of recent memory.

Note the yellow 23 in the back.

Yellow Jumpman.  Too bad they come off easily.

Note the textured carbon fiber and clear icy blue sole.