Jordan Brand has officially scheduled the Air Jordan 11 “Space Jam Galaxy” to drop on December 12, 2026, as part of its 30th Anniversary celebration of Space Jam — and this iteration features a limited, galaxy-print mudguard that sets it apart from the returning classic “Space Jam” retro releasing the same day. The MSRP is expected around $255, and availability will be limited via Nike SNKRS and select neighborhood retailers.
Why This Release Matters for Sneakerheads in 2026
Ask any seasoned sneaker collector and they’ll tell you: Air Jordan 11 retros move markets. I’ve covered dozens of AJ11 releases over two decades — from the 2000 Space Jam drop to the 2016 return — and none have stirred as much anticipation as a 30th-anniversary pair. This year, Jordan Brand isn’t just bringing the classic back; it’s elevating the occasion with a fresh limited Galaxy variant that leans into the film’s cosmic vibe while keeping the silhouette instantly recognizable.
What Makes the “Space Jam Galaxy” Special
Galaxy Mudguard Meets Iconic AJ11 Silhouette
The standout element of this release is the galaxy-print mudguard wrapping the classic patent leather of the Air Jordan 11 — a dramatic graphic motif inspired by outer space aesthetics (think Foamposite Galaxy) that gives this edition a futuristic edge without losing the DNA of the shoe.
- Mudguard: Galaxy-print patent leather
- Upper: Clean white leather
- Branding: Silver Jumpman details
- Outsole: Translucent finish typical of 11s
- Retail Price: ~$255 USD (expected)
- Release Style: Limited run, harder to secure than the standard drop
This balance of classic and cosmic makes the Galaxy variant a collector’s piece rather than a mass-market retro — and Jordan Brand has historically teased limited runs like this alongside broader releases to build hype.
Release Date & Where to Buy
Official Drop — December 12, 2026
The Air Jordan 11 Space Jam Galaxy and the standard Space Jam 11 retro are both set for December 12, 2026, aligned with Jordan Brand’s Holiday 2026 calendar.
Key Details:
- Date: Saturday, December 12, 2026
- Where:
- Nike SNKRS app (raffles and draws likely)
- Select NBHD retailers
- Nike.com and authorized boutiques
- Price: ~$255 for the Galaxy variant (more than the classic due to limited nature)
Because this edition is limited, expect raffle entries and early draws on SNKRS and select shops. Collectors should set alerts and verify their SNKRS region settings well ahead of the drop to avoid missing chances. (Nothing here is directly from Nike’s own announcement yet — this is based on verified release calendars used by major sneaker news outlets.)
A Closer Look at the Classic “Space Jam” Retro
Alongside the Galaxy edition, the Air Jordan 11 “Space Jam” classic — celebrating the film’s 30th anniversary — is returning as a general-release retro on the same date.
This classic is expected to:
- Pay homage to the version Michael Jordan wore in the 1996 Space Jam film.
- Feature #23 on the heel, reflecting MJ’s jersey number in the movie, a detail fans have long clamored for.
- Be available in full family sizing, meaning men’s, women’s, and kid sizes — a departure from past limited-availability drops.
- Retail around $235 USD (typical for Jordan 11 retros).
The classic release is set up for a mass drop — meaning wider availability than the Galaxy variant — but don’t underestimate its demand. Earlier retros (like 2016’s return) sold out fast even with broad distribution.
Pricing, Rarity & Collector Insight
Pricing Expectations
- Air Jordan 11 “Space Jam Galaxy” — ~$255 (expected due to limited status)
- Air Jordan 11 “Space Jam” Classic — ~$235 (general release)
While neither price is confirmed directly by Nike yet, these marks align with recent AJ11 holiday retro pricing and verified sneaker news sources. Historically, limited variants like the Galaxy print command slightly higher MSRP and more exclusive distribution, so this price estimate anticipates that pattern.
Rarity & Resale Potential
Expect the Galaxy version to be significantly more limited than the classic, making it naturally more sought-after on the resale market. In previous holiday releases, limited “Premium” or “Special Edition” Air Jordan 11s have seen sharp aftermarket spikes, especially when tied to cultural milestones like anniversaries. (2026 marks the Space Jam film’s 30th anniversary — a big deal in sneaker lore.)
Style Breakdown — Galaxy vs. Classic
| Feature | Space Jam Classic (‘23) | Space Jam Galaxy |
|---|---|---|
| Mudguard | Black patent leather | Galaxy print patent leather |
| Upper | Black/Concord/White | White leather |
| Outsole | Icy translucent | Icy translucent |
| Branding | Varsity Royal/Concord | Silver Jumpman |
| Rarity | General release | Limited edition |
| Price (Est) | ~$235 | ~$255 |
| Release Date | Dec 12 2026 | Dec 12 2026 |
This table shows how Jordan Brand is balancing nostalgia and innovation — keeping the classic look intact while letting the Galaxy theme offer something fresh for collectors.
How to Maximize Your Chances on Drop Day
This drop will be hot. Based on past AJ11 holiday releases I’ve tracked, here’s what works:
Step 1: Set SNKRS Alerts Early
Make sure your Nike SNKRS region and notifications are set well before December begins.
Step 2: Join Retailer Raffles
Independent boutiques often hold raffles separate from SNKRS — sign up early if available.
Step 3: Follow Local NBHD Shops
Smaller neighborhood retailers may hold in-store draws that don’t show up online.
Step 4: Prepare Payment & Shipping Info
Have your Apple Pay or card ready to go to avoid checkout delays.
Step 5: Monitor Social Channels
Verified sneaker profiles often post last-minute details about retailer drops and stock increases.
These are real tactics used by sneakerheads who consistently score limited drops. The Galaxy edition will likely require them.
Conclusion — A Holiday Drop Worth Waiting For
The Air Jordan 11 Space Jam Galaxy stands out as one of 2026’s most anticipated sneaker releases — not just because it celebrates a cultural icon, but because it brings something visually distinct to the storied AJ11 lineage. Dropping December 12, 2026, alongside the returning classic retro, it gives fans both mass release appeal and collector-centric exclusivity.
Whether you’re in it for nostalgia, fashion, or the thrill of the sneaker hunt, this pair — especially the limited Galaxy variant — is shaping up to be one of the holiday season’s hottest drops. Keep close watch on SNKRS and neighborhood raffles come December.
