Even when the commercials told me to, I never REALLY wanted to “Be Like Mike.” But lately I’m starting to rethink my decision.

Nike is set to release the 23rd version of it’s popular shoe, the Air Jordan, at the end of January. 23 was Michael Jordan’s number for most of his NBA career, and so to honor the man with the foot, the AJXX3 will be the first shoe in the company’s history designed to reduce waste and incorporate environmentally friendly materials.

For example, instead of the AJXX3 requiring the usual nasty glue and ozone layer crushing adhesives, Nike is coming up with an innovative new system of interlocking panels which will do the job without causing as much harm. In fact, they built brand new machines just to make this shoe an environmental success.

Tinker Hatfield (the worst name maybe ever), Nike’s V.P of Innovation Design and Special Projects, said, “We pissed off a lot of people at the factory because this wasn’t business as usual,” and estimates that “Within six months, you’ll see other [basketball shoe] companies following our lead.”

So how do you get Jordan’s new eco-sneaks? Wait the hell in line like everyone else, dammit! Starting on Jan. 25, 23 retailers will each receive 23 pairs of AJXX3’s that will cost you $230. They’re really obsessed with this 23 theme, huh? And then on Feb. 23rd (again with the 23) they’ll be available on mainstream shelves.

Are you as impressed as I am? Tell Ecorazzi what you think about this new green shoe! I expect 23 comments!

via: linton at hugg.com