The Air Jordan 1 isn’t just a trainer; it’s a proper cultural legend. Since hitting the shelves in 1985, the Air Jordan 1 has not only shaken up the world of athletic footwear but also left a lasting mark on fashion and pop culture. In this piece, we’ll dive into the cracking story behind this iconic model, from how Michael Jordan ended up with Nike to why the Air Jordan 1 got banned.
Michael Jordan’s Move to Nike
Back in 1984, Michael Jordan was a talented young lad fresh out of the University of North Carolina, gearing up for his NBA career. Little did he know, a choice he made reluctantly would not only change his life but completely revolutionise the trainer game.
Nike? Not on Your Nelly!
Jordan was a man with his heart set on Adidas. To him, their three-stripe kicks were the business—more stylish and suited to his fast, explosive style on the court. Problem was, Adidas were a bit of a shambles and couldn’t sort him a decent deal.
To top it off, Converse, the NBA’s official sponsor at the time, who kitted out legends like Magic Johnson and Larry Bird, weren’t fussed about Jordan. “We’ve got our top blokes, we don’t need a rookie,” they reckoned. Enter Nike, a brand known for running shoes, not basketball. Jordan wasn’t having any of it.
Mum Knows Best
The story could’ve ended there, but for one key figure in Jordan’s life: his mum, Deloris Jordan. When Michael dug his heels in and said he wasn’t even going to meet Nike, she put her foot down: “You’re getting on that plane and at least hearing them out!”
Like any good son, Jordan did as he was told (or at least didn’t fancy a row with his mum). Off he went to Oregon, Nike’s HQ, and the rest, as they say, is history.
An Offer Too Good to Turn Down
Nike knew they had to pull out all the stops to win Jordan over, and they didn’t hold back. Phil Knight, the brand’s founder, and Sonny Vaccaro, one of their top strategists, had a bold plan: create an exclusive line of trainers just for Michael Jordan—something no other brand was willing to do. The result? A five-year, $2.5 million deal (massive money back then), plus royalties on sales.
Jordan was sceptical, but Nike sealed the deal with a masterstroke. They showed him a concept model called the Air Jordan 1, which not only carried his name but had a bold, innovative design. That was enough to convince the young star he was on the right track.
The Birth of the Air Jordan 1
The Air Jordan 1 was the first trainer in Michael Jordan’s signature line. Designed by Nike’s team, led by Peter Moore, it’s got the iconic look we all know today. Launched in 1985, it was built as a high-performance basketball trainer but with a striking style that also caught the eye of fashion fans.
The trainer stood out for its bold design, featuring the famous “Wings” logo and eye-catching colour combos. The original included the “Chicago” colourway (white, red, and black), a nod to the Chicago Bulls, and “Bred” (black and red), which became massively popular.
Nike went all out with a cracking ad campaign to push the Air Jordan 1. The ads showed Jordan in action, highlighting the trainer’s performance on the court, cementing his image as a top-tier athlete and the Air Jordan 1 as a high-performance product.
Where the Name “Air Jordan” Comes From
The name “Air Jordan” blends Michael Jordan’s surname with Nike’s “Air” cushioning tech. Naming a product line after a famous athlete was a bit out there at the time, but Nike bet that tying it to Jordan would create a proper emotional connection with punters.
“Air Jordan” was chosen to reflect Jordan’s personality and playing style, plus the trainer’s cutting-edge tech. Nike’s “Air” technology, with air pockets for cushioning, was a key feature that set the Air Jordan 1 apart from other basketball trainers on the market.
The Air Jordan 1 Ban
One of the most legendary moments in Air Jordan 1 history was its ban by the NBA. In 1985, NBA commissioner David Stern banned the trainer because of the league’s strict uniform rules. Players had to wear trainers matching their team’s main colours. The Air Jordan 1’s “Bred” (black and red) colourway didn’t play ball with those rules.
The ban caused a right kerfuffle and only made the trainer more popular. Nike jumped on it, creating an ad campaign that leaned into the “banned” vibe, marketing the Air Jordan 1 as a rebellious, game-changing product. The slogan “Banned” featured in a series of ads, cementing the Air Jordan 1’s status as a proper icon.
The Role of Jordan Brand at Nike
Jordan Brand, the Nike division handling Air Jordan products, was officially set up in 1997. Born from the mega-successful partnership between Michael Jordan and Nike, it was created to manage and grow Jordan’s signature line. Since then, Jordan Brand has become one of the most iconic and influential names in sports footwear and fashion.
Jordan Brand isn’t just about trainers; it also offers a cracking range of clothing and accessories. The brand keeps releasing new Air Jordan editions and other product lines, keeping the range fresh and culturally relevant.
The Cultural Impact of the Air Jordan 1
The Air Jordan 1 isn’t just a basketball trainer; it’s a cultural phenomenon that’s redefined how we see and wear trainers. Since its debut in 1985, it’s gone from a performance shoe to a global fashion icon. This article dives into the Air Jordan 1’s cultural impact and highlights some of the top collaborations with artists and brands that have embraced this legendary silhouette.
The Air Jordan 1 played a massive role in making trainers a fashion staple. In the ‘80s, trainers were mostly for sports, but the Air Jordan 1 changed all that. With its bold design and vibrant colours, it quickly became a street style icon, kicking off the trend of wearing trainers as fashion pieces rather than just athletic gear.
The Air Jordan 1’s influence on fashion is clear—it’s a regular in fashion shows and style editorials. Its classic design and cultural clout make it a must-have for many fashion enthusiasts.
Influence on Hip-Hop Culture
During the ‘80s and ‘90s, Nike and the Air Jordan line started making waves in hip-hop culture, especially among the new generation of artists and fans diving into basketball and streetwear. Michael Jordan and his Air Jordans became a symbol of status and success, influencing young people who were open to fresh trends.
The Air Jordan 1’s impact on hip-hop is evident in music videos, album covers, and even song lyrics. It’s become a symbol of success and style in the hip-hop community, bridging sport and music.
The Role of the Air Jordan 1 in the Sneakerhead Movement
The Air Jordan 1 is a major player in the rise of the sneakerhead movement. Sneakerhead culture, all about collecting and appreciating exclusive and limited-edition trainers, was fuelled by the Air Jordan 1’s success. New editions and collaborations spark massive excitement among collectors and sneakerheads.
The Air Jordan 1’s popularity helped kickstart the trainer resale market, where rare models can go for a bomb. Its impact on sneakerhead culture is clear in the ongoing demand for new releases and their status as collectibles.
The Air Jordan 1 in Film and Media
The Air Jordan 1’s influence stretches to film and media too. The trainer has popped up in loads of films, TV shows, and music videos, cementing its place in pop culture.
It’s been featured in several ad campaigns and documentaries, including the iconic “The Last Dance”, which dives into Michael Jordan’s career and his partnership with Nike. These media appearances have kept the Air Jordan 1 relevant and influential over the years.
Here’s a rundown of some films and series where the Air Jordan 1 shines:
“The Last Dance” (2020)
This documentary about Michael Jordan’s career shows him rocking the Air Jordan 1 in iconic matches.
“Everybody Hates Chris” (2005-2009)
Highlight: Characters sport Air Jordan 1s in several episodes, showcasing their impact on ‘80s street fashion.
“Lupin” (2021)
Highlight: The main man, Assane Diop, wears Air Jordan 1s in several scenes, reflecting his urban, modern style.
“Ballers” (2015-2019)
The series starring Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson features characters in Air Jordan 1s, tying into the sports and luxury lifestyle of American football players.
Main Air Jordan 1 Colourways and Their Silhouettes: Low, Mid, and High
The Air Jordan 1 has won over fans worldwide, not just for its link to Michael Jordan but for its countless colourways and silhouette variations. Let’s take a look at the main models and what sets them apart!
Top Air Jordan 1 Colourways
The Air Jordan 1 has been released in hundreds of colours, but some stand out and have left their mark on trainer history:
- Bred (Black/Red): One of the most iconic, banned by the NBA in 1985, but Jordan wore it anyway.
- Chicago: Red, white, and black, capturing the essence of the Chicago Bulls and one of the most sought-after models.
- Royal: Black and vibrant blue, a proper favourite among sneakerheads.
- Shadow: Black and grey, subtle and versatile.
- UNC: Blue and white, a tribute to the University of North Carolina, where Jordan played.
- Shattered Backboard: Inspired by the game where Jordan smashed the backboard, with orange and black tones.
These are just a few of the legendary colourways, but there are loads of other collaborations and special editions that make the AJ1 even more desirable.
The Different Silhouettes: Low, Mid, and High
The Air Jordan 1 comes in three main versions, each with its own vibe and audience.
- Air Jordan 1 High: The original model Jordan wore on the court. It’s the most coveted by collectors and usually gets the most iconic colourways.
- Air Jordan 1 Mid: A mid-height version, a bit shorter than the High. It’s often more affordable, making it a great pick for those wanting an AJ1 without breaking the bank. Launched in the 2000s as an alternative to the High, the Mid was designed to reach a wider crowd with better availability and lower prices. Initially, some sneaker purists turned their noses up, but it’s gained traction with exclusive editions and collabs.
- Air Jordan 1 Low: More laid-back and perfect for everyday wear. It’s ideal for those after comfort and style without losing the AJ1’s identity.
Top Jordan 1 Collaborations with Artists and Brands
Nike keeps the Air Jordan 1 fresh and desirable through collabs with artists and brands. These partnerships create limited-edition trainers that spark exclusivity and demand, reaching new audiences and markets. They reinforce Nike and the Air Jordan 1’s identity as innovative and cultural while creating buzz through campaigns and events. Collabs also boost consumer loyalty, tap into new markets, and drive up resale value. Influencer marketing amplifies the Air Jordan 1’s visibility, cementing its place in fashion and pop culture.
What Are the Most Iconic Jordan 1 Collaborations?
Off-White x Air Jordan 1: Virgil Abloh redefined deconstruction with his take on the AJ1, featuring oversized labels, exposed stitching, and the iconic “AIR” printed on the midsole. A proper game-changer in trainer fashion.
Travis Scott x Air Jordan 1: Travis Scott’s “Reverse Swoosh” model won over sneakerheads with its bold design and earthy tones. The hidden ankle pocket added a functional, stylish twist.
Dior x Air Jordan 1: When luxury meets streetwear, you get a trainer that costs a fortune. The Dior and Jordan Brand collab brought an AJ1 with premium leather and refined details, making it one of the most exclusive models ever.
Union LA x Air Jordan 1: Inspired by a vintage vibe, Union LA gave the AJ1 a DIY feel, mixing different colourways creatively. The result? A trainer that looks like it’s straight out of an ‘80s dream.
Fragment Design x Air Jordan 1: Hiroshi Fujiwara turned a simple black, white, and blue colour scheme into one of the most coveted Jordan 1s ever. Top-notch materials and exclusivity made this collab an instant classic.
The Social and Philanthropic Impact of the Air Jordan 1: How Nike and the Michael Jordan Foundation Support Good Causes
The social impact and charitable efforts tied to the Air Jordan line, especially the Air Jordan 1, are a big part of Nike’s strategy and Michael Jordan’s legacy. The Michael Jordan Foundation, set up by Jordan himself, focuses on initiatives like education, health, and youth development. Sales of Air Jordan trainers, including the Air Jordan 1, help fund projects and programmes, often teaming up with organisations to support mentoring, scholarships, and community outreach for kids and teens.
In some cases, special editions and collabs of the Air Jordan 1 have been created with a charitable purpose, with a chunk of the proceeds going to good causes. Limited releases often include fundraising campaigns for charities focused on kids, education, or social justice.
The Nike Foundation, part of Nike’s global social responsibility efforts, supports projects promoting health, education, and equality. Sales of Nike products, including Air Jordans, help fund these initiatives. Nike invests in community centres and youth sports events in underserved areas, with a portion of sales contributing to these efforts.
Nike and the Michael Jordan Foundation often run awareness and fundraising campaigns for various causes, tying them to specific product releases, including the Air Jordan 1. Nike’s also committed to promoting diversity and inclusion, and the Air Jordan line, including the Air Jordan 1, plays a role in these broader efforts for equality and social justice.
Some special edition Air Jordans support educational projects, like literacy and skills programmes for young people in underserved communities. Nike also organises basketball events and tournaments in local communities, funded through sales of products like the Air Jordan 1, to encourage youth participation and promote health and well-being.
The social impact of Air Jordans, including the Air Jordan 1, goes beyond their status as a fashion item. Nike and the Michael Jordan Foundation use sales to support a range of social and charitable causes, making social responsibility a key part of the Air Jordan legacy.
What Is the Air Jordan 1?
The Air Jordan 1 is the first trainer in the Air Jordan line, created by Nike in collaboration with basketball legend Michael Jordan. Launched in 1985, it quickly became an icon in both sport and fashion.
Why Is the Air Jordan 1 So Famous?
The Air Jordan 1 stood out for its bold design and for breaking NBA rules at the time, as the league had strict limits on trainer colours. Michael Jordan was fined for wearing it, which generated massive buzz. Plus, it’s got a strong link to sneakerhead and streetwear culture.
How Many Air Jordan 1 Models Are There?
Since its 1985 debut, hundreds of Air Jordan 1 variants have been released, including High, Mid, and Low versions, plus exclusive collabs with artists, celebs, and luxury brands.
What’s the Difference Between Air Jordan 1 High, Mid, and Low?
High: The original model, with a high top for extra ankle support, inspired by basketball.
Mid: A medium-height version, sitting between the High and Low. Less popular but still widely worn.
Low: A low-top version, with a more casual, versatile vibe for everyday wear.
Is the Air Jordan 1 Comfy for Everyday Wear?
Yeah, while it was originally designed for basketball, the Air Jordan 1 is often worn as a casual trainer. That said, since it was designed in 1985, its comfort doesn’t quite match modern trainers with fancier tech.
Why Is the Air Jordan 1 a Fashion Icon?
The Air Jordan 1 has gone beyond sport to become a symbol of urban style. Its classic silhouette, bold colours, and celebrity connections have made it a staple in streetwear and global fashion.
What Are Some of the Most Famous Air Jordan 1 Collaborations?
Some of the most notable Air Jordan 1 collaborations include:
- Travis Scott
- Off-White x Virgil Abloh
- Dior
- Union LA
- J-Balvin
These editions are limited and highly sought after by collectors.
How Do I Know If My Air Jordan 1 Is Authentic?
To check if your Air Jordan 1 is the real deal, look out for:
- Top-notch stitching and materials
- Properly aligned and precise logos
- Internal labels with correct numbering
- Original box with matching details
Collectors and experts recommend buying only from authorised retailers or trusted shops.
How Do I Care for and Clean My Air Jordan 1?
To keep your Air Jordan 1 looking fresh:
- Clean regularly with a soft brush and damp cloth
- Avoid soaking the leather
- Use proper products for leather and suede trainers
- Store in a cool, dry spot
Is the Air Jordan 1 Still Being Released?
Yep, Nike keeps dropping new versions of the Air Jordan 1, including fresh colourways and collabs. Limited editions and re-releases of classic models are also common.
Is the Air Jordan 1 Unisex?
Absolutely, the Air Jordan 1 is unisex and comes in a wide range of sizes for both blokes and lasses.
What’s the Average Price of an Air Jordan 1?
Prices vary a lot depending on the model. Standard releases go for about £120-£160, while collabs and limited editions can easily fetch £400 or more on the resale market.
Does the Air Jordan 1 Go Up in Value on the Resale Market?
Yeah, many limited editions and collabs skyrocket in value after release, making the Air Jordan 1 a proper gem for collectors, especially rare or celeb-linked versions.
What’s the Origin of the Air Jordan 1 Design?
The Air Jordan 1 was designed by Peter Moore, drawing inspiration from classic basketball boots and the style of ‘80s basketball trainers. It was also influenced by Michael Jordan’s colours and personal flair.
Why Was the Air Jordan 1 Banned by the NBA?
The Air Jordan 1 was banned by the NBA because of strict rules on trainer colours, which had to be mostly white or match the team’s kit. The Air Jordan 1’s bold colourway broke those rules, leading to fines for Jordan.
What’s the Story Behind Iconic Air Jordan 1 Colourways Like “Bred” and “Royal”?
The “Bred” (black and red) and “Royal” (blue and black) colourways are some of the most iconic. “Bred” is tied to Jordan’s defiance and NBA history, while “Royal” reflects the model’s success and popularity.
Does the Air Jordan 1 Have a Big Cultural Impact?
Absolutely, the Air Jordan 1 had a massive impact, sparking the basketball trainer trend in streetwear and fashion. It also shaped how trainers are collected and valued on the resale market.
What Are Some of the Rarest and Most Valuable Air Jordan 1 Models?
Some of the rarest and priciest models include the Air Jordan 1 “Chicago” (original), Air Jordan 1 “Dior”, and Air Jordan 1 “Travis Scott”. These are highly coveted by collectors and can fetch mega prices on the resale market.
Is the Air Jordan 1 Suitable for Sports Today?
While it was designed for basketball in the ‘80s, the Air Jordan 1 isn’t ideal for sports today due to advances in trainer tech and its focus on style and casual wear.
Where Can I Buy an Air Jordan 1?
You can grab Air Jordan 1s at sports shops, specialist trainer stores, or resale platforms like StockX, GOAT, and Grailed. For limited editions and exclusive collabs, Nike or other specialist retailers often drop them directly on their websites.
Does the Air Jordan 1 Come in Different Types of Leather?
Yep, the Air Jordan 1 comes in various leathers, including smooth leather, textured leather, and suede. The material can affect the trainer’s style and comfort.
What’s the Difference Between the Air Jordan 1 “OG” and Newer Releases?
The Air Jordan 1 “OG” refers to the original 1985 versions, with authentic materials and colours. Newer releases might have variations in materials, colours, and design details, often influenced by collabs and current trends.