Released in 1982, the Air Force One Mid was intended for sportswear sales by shoe company Nike. It was produced as a plain white sneaker first before custom made by manufacturers and sold worldwide. In 1986, Michael Jordan was commissioned by Nike to endorse these custom Air Force Ones and its popularity zoomed overnight. People from all walks of life became instant fans of the Air Force Ones and sales soar within a few weeks. The Air Force One Mid was designed just above the ankle for a more stabilized wear and in effect ankle sprains are avoided. Limited editions were released in different countries and special editions coincide with different celebrations held around the world.