Cap and Gown
The Air Jordan 11 “Cap and Gown” is a bold, luxurious twist on one of the most beloved models in the Air Jordan line. Released in 2018, this premium version of the Air Jordan 11 reimagines the iconic silhouette in sleek, all-black formalwear aesthetics—bridging the gap between athletic performance and ceremonial style.
In this article, we’ll explore the Cap and Gown 11s in full detail, including their design, materials, performance features, and cultural significance.
1. Overview
- Model: Air Jordan XI Retro “Cap and Gown”
- Release Date: May 26, 2018
- Retail Price: $250 USD
- Colorway: Black/Black-Black
- Style Code: 378037-005
2. Design Inspiration
The “Cap and Gown” theme draws direct inspiration from graduation ceremonies—specifically the traditional black academic regalia worn during high school and college graduations. Jordan Brand intended this version to be worn not only on the court but also for special occasions, including formal events and graduations.
This release is a reinterpretation of the classic “Prom Night” Jordan 11 sample, long sought after by collectors.
3. Upper Construction
Patent Leather Mudguard
- One of the most iconic features of the Air Jordan 11 is its high-cut patent leather mudguard.
- On the Cap and Gown, the patent leather is ultra-glossy and jet black, giving it a sleek, tuxedo-like look.
- Slightly higher cut than traditional versions—similar to the original OG shape.
Nubuck Upper
- Replaces the traditional ballistic nylon mesh found on most 11s.
- The Cap and Gown features premium black nubuck on the upper, offering a softer, more formal texture.
- Tonal stitching throughout enhances the monochromatic elegance.
Thick Rope Laces
- A significant visual departure from the flat laces typical of most Jordan 11s.
- Thick, round rope laces resemble those found on graduation gowns or dress shoes—another nod to the theme.
4. Branding and Detailing
- Jumpman Logo: Embroidered in black-on-black on the ankle—subtle but premium.
- 23 on Heel: Gloss black “23” stamp on the heel tab, consistent with the minimal theme.
- Tongue Tag: Classic Jordan XI strip with “Jumpman Jordan” text, subtly stitched between the laces.
5. Midsole and Cushioning
Phylon Midsole
- Lightweight and responsive foam midsole provides all-day comfort.
- Smooth black finish complements the rest of the shoe.
Full-Length Air-Sole Unit
- Standard in most Jordan 11s, the Cap and Gown includes a full-length encapsulated Air unit.
- Delivers plush, responsive cushioning suitable for casual wear or limited play.
6. Outsole and Traction
Translucent Outsole
- Icy black-tinted translucent outsole, darker than the traditional blue seen on Concords or Space Jams.
- Maintains the classic Jordan 11 herringbone traction pods for grip and court responsiveness.
- Carbon fiber shank plate visible through the outsole adds stiffness and stability—essential for performance.
7. Fit and Comfort
- Fits true to size for most wearers.
- The nubuck upper and thick laces provide a snug but flexible fit.
- Despite the formal appearance, it maintains the on-foot comfort and support the Air Jordan 11 is known for.
8. Styling and Versatility
Unlike typical basketball sneakers, the Cap and Gown 11 was designed to blur the line between sportswear and formalwear. It’s one of the few sneakers that:
- Looks appropriate with a suit or dress attire
- Can be worn to events like graduations, proms, and weddings
- Still holds up on the court if needed
Its monochromatic black palette makes it easy to style, while its shine gives it a dress-shoe vibe with sneaker comfort.
9. Cultural Impact
The Cap and Gown 11 became an instant hit not just for its luxury looks, but for its emotional connection to milestones like graduation. It’s one of the rare Jordan releases designed with a lifestyle-first mindset, yet it retained all the DNA of a performance basketball shoe.
- Widely worn by graduates and prom attendees across the U.S.
- Considered by many as a “formal Jordan”, ideal for sneakerheads who want to dress up without sacrificing their style.
- It helped open doors for more versatile Jordan colorways that push beyond sport and streetwear.
10. Packaging
- Comes in a special edition black Jordan XI box, with a slide-out drawer.
- Inside includes a plastic shoe shield and branded tissue paper.
- Premium unboxing experience to match the elevated aesthetic.
Conclusion
The Air Jordan 11 “Cap and Gown” is more than just another retro release—it’s a bold, luxurious reinterpretation of a timeless silhouette. With premium materials, elegant detailing, and a meaningful theme, it stands out in the Air Jordan legacy as both a fashion-forward statement and a nod to life’s milestone moments.
Whether you’re walking across the graduation stage or the city sidewalk, the Cap and Gown 11 delivers a combination of sophistication, history, and sneaker culture that’s hard to beat.
1. Inspiration
The shoe is inspired by graduation ceremonies, where students wear black caps and gowns. It was made to match that formal look — a sneaker you can wear with a suit, tuxedo, or on your big day. Think of it as a dress shoe disguised as a sneaker.
2. Upper Materials
Patent Leather
- The shiny, glossy material that wraps around the bottom of the shoe.
- On this version, it’s extra shiny and fully black — meant to look elegant, like polished leather shoes.
Nubuck
- Instead of the regular mesh, this version uses black nubuck (a soft, suede-like material).
- It gives the shoe a more luxurious, formal look than typical Jordan 11s.
Rope Laces
- Instead of flat laces, it uses thick rope laces — like the cords you see on graduation gowns.
- They add to the premium, dressy feel.
3. Branding
- Jumpman Logo: All black, stitched into the side of the shoe — subtle but sharp.
- “23” on the Heel: Just like other Jordan 11s, the number 23 is printed on the back heel in glossy black.
4. Midsole
- Made of Phylon foam – a lightweight, cushioned material.
- Inside, it has a full-length Air unit that runs from heel to toe.
- This combo makes the shoe very comfortable for walking, standing, or casual wear.
5. Outsole
- The bottom of the shoe uses a black translucent rubber outsole (looks icy but darker).
- Includes herringbone traction pads — the textured areas that help with grip on different surfaces.
- A carbon fiber plate is visible through the sole. This adds strength and bounce, a performance feature from the original Jordan 11 design.
6. Fit and Feel
- Runs true to size for most people.
- The materials feel soft but supportive, and the high top gives good ankle coverage.
- Though it’s more of a lifestyle shoe, you could still play basketball in it thanks to the full performance setup inside.
7. Packaging
- Comes in a special black Jordan 11 box with a drawer-style pull-out.
- Includes custom inserts and packaging paper — matching the shoe’s premium theme.
8. Style and Wearability
The Cap and Gown 11 is made for more than just basketball:
- Wear it with a suit or tux at formal events.
- Rock it with jeans or joggers for a clean, classy streetwear look.
- Popular at graduations, proms, weddings, and more.
9. Release and Price
- Release Date: May 26, 2018
- Retail Price: $250 USD
- This was a higher retail price than regular Jordan 11s due to the upgraded materials and concept.
10. Why It’s Special
The Cap and Gown 11 is unique because:
- It’s all black, unlike most Jordan 11s which have white midsoles or colorful uppers.
- It blends style and function—something rare in sneakers.
- It’s linked to life milestones like graduating — giving it meaning beyond fashion.
Final Thoughts
The Air Jordan 11 “Cap and Gown” is a clean, elegant take on one of the greatest sneakers ever made. It keeps the legacy of the Jordan 11 but updates it for a more formal, modern look.
You don’t have to be graduating to wear them—but if you are, there’s probably no better sneaker to walk across the stage in.