The Alpha Force, best known for being worn by Charles Barkley in his younger days, was a bit different. It featured a mid cut design, and cushioning support in back of the heel. As opposed to the usual strap at the ankle, it featured one in the middle of the shoe, at the beginning of the lacing system. Worn by the grimiest player the league had seen up to that point, the shoe coincided with the man. It was fierce, raw, and had attitude, just as did Charles Barkley. If Jordan was the main character in the NBA storyline, then Barkley was his antagonist.