The paper in the box DOES lead to yellowing, unlike all these "I heard" stories, I can verify this first hand. My pair of retail 2009 Space Jam 11s have been kept fresh in the box since release and not worn (yet), they were wrapped inside with the paper, just as it came from retail. The soles have some yellowing on the bottom, albeit limited to around the pods. The paper has yellow stains on it! On the areas that were touching the sole, so from this I take it as the paper does have an effect on the soles yellowing. I took the paper out now, and do the same for all kicks with an icey sole.