How to Style Jordan 9 'University Blue': Outfits for Everyday & Techwear

Quick answer: The Jordan 9 "University Blue" looks best with simple, darker clothes, like black cargo pants, grey joggers, or relaxed jeans, plus one light blue or white piece on top to tie it together. Choose pants that sit just above the high collar, or cuff them, so they don't bunch on the shoe.

The Air Jordan 9 is a bold high-top with a white leather upper, a black base, and light blue hits. Its outsole has words printed in different languages, a nod to Michael Jordan's worldwide fame. That sporty, rugged shape works well with techwear (clothes made from tough, weather-ready fabrics), but it's just as easy to wear with jeans and a tee. Want comfort tips first? Read our guide, "How to Break In Jordan 9s."

The Jordan 9 is a chunky high-top, so your pants decide whether the outfit works. Skinny pants can make the shoe look huge, and very long, wide pants can swallow it.

The sweet spot is pants with a slight taper, or a cuff that sits just above the collar. The black base of the shoe blends with black or charcoal pants and makes your legs look longer, while the light blue details give the eye a place to land.

• Quick tip: Keep most of your outfit dark or neutral, then add one light blue or white piece, like a cap, tee, or jacket, to match the shoe.

We asked JD's stylists the questions shoppers ask most about wearing Jordan 9s.

• Question: What colors go with the Jordan 9 University Blue?

• Answer: Black, grey, white, navy, and olive all work. Black and grey are the easiest because they match the shoe's base. Add light blue in small doses. Too much blue can look like a costume.

• Question: Can I wear Jordan 9s in the rain?

• Answer: They handle light rain better than suede sneakers because the upper is mostly leather. Wipe them dry when you get home and don't soak them. For heavy rain or snow, a boot is still the better choice.

Here are five easy looks from our JD stylists:

• The techwear look: Black tapered cargo pants with ankle toggles and a grey weatherproof jacket. The black cargos blend into the shoe's black base, and the blue pops against the grey.
• Everyday denim: Relaxed jeans cuffed above the collar with a boxy white tee. The white tee ties back to the white leather upper.
• Sporty and simple: Grey joggers with ankle cuffs and a light blue hoodie or crewneck.
• Layered streetwear: Charcoal track pants, a black hoodie, and a light blue cap.
• Summer fit: Black shorts, a white tee, and white crew socks. Easy and clean.

• Sizing: Jordan 9s fit true to size for most people. They feel snug at first, so wide feet should go up a half size.
• Comfort: The sole is firm and softens over the first week or two. For tips, see our guide "How to Break In Jordan 9s."

• What pants go with Jordan 9s? Tapered cargos, joggers with ankle cuffs, and relaxed jeans cuffed above the collar.
• Should you tuck your pants into Jordan 9s? Not usually. A clean cuff or a light stack above the collar looks better than tucking.
• Are Jordan 9s good for everyday wear? Yes. They're sturdy and supportive, and the leather upper is easy to clean.
• Can I still buy the Jordan 9 University Blue? It's a past release, so new pairs can be hard to find. Check JD's Jordan retro page for current Jordan 9 colorways with a similar look.

• Buy the University Blue Jordan 9 if: you want a sturdy high-top with clean, easy-to-match colors that works with both techwear and everyday denim.

• Skip it if: you like slim, low-profile sneakers. A Jordan 1 Low or a classic court shoe is an easier match for slim pants.

• Can't find this pair? Any Jordan 9 in white, black, and blue works with these outfits. The styling rules are the same.

• Ready to shop? Browse Jordan retro shoes at JD Sports for current Jordan 9s, and check the release calendar for upcoming drops.

1. Nike Product Information: Air Jordan 9 design details, including the speed lacing system and multilingual outsole.
2. Brand History: The 1993 Air Jordan 9, designed by Tinker Hatfield, and its global theme.
3. JD Sports Style Guidance: Outfit ideas from JD Sports stylists.
4. JD Sports Fit Feedback: Sizing and comfort feedback from JD Sports store teams across North America.