The Air Jordan 1 isn’t just a basketball trainer—it’s a proper cultural icon. Since hitting the shelves in 1985, it’s smashed through the worlds of fashion, music, and sport, becoming a global phenomenon. Over the years, collabs with top designers, mega brands, and influential figures have cemented the Air Jordan 1’s status as a must-have for sneakerheads. Whether you’re mad about trainers or just love a cracking design, these collaborations have changed the game. Let’s dive into the standout collabs that have shaped the legacy of this legendary trainer!
Travis Scott x Air Jordan 1
When it comes to Air Jordan 1 collabs, you can’t skip over Travis Scott. The rapper and producer brought his own flair to the classic trainer, creating some seriously sought-after kicks. The “Cactus Jack” Air Jordan 1 Retro High OG, dropped in 2019, is a standout with its flipped Swoosh and subtle details like the Cactus Jack logo on the tongue. It’s no wonder these trainers are some of the hottest on the market.
Travis didn’t stop there, though. He kept pushing the envelope with Jordan Brand, blending personal touches with urban vibes. His work has pulled in music fans and sneakerheads alike, proving he’s not just a musician but a proper visionary in the trainer world.
J Balvin x Air Jordan 1: Vibrant and Full of Latin Flair
Colombian star J Balvin teamed up with Jordan Brand to create a trainer that’s a proper celebration of Latin culture. Launched in 2020, the Air Jordan 1 “J Balvin” is a riot of colour, with pink, blue, green, and yellow hues inspired by the artist’s vibrant energy. The J Balvin smiley face on the tongue and removable patches for customisation make these trainers a rare, interactive gem in the sneaker world.
Teyana Taylor x Air Jordan 1
Teyana Taylor, a multi-talented artist, brought her unique style to the Air Jordan 1. Her “A Rose from Harlem” model, released in 2020, channels her bold personality and urban roots. With a pink leather base and plush velvet accents, it strikes a perfect balance between luxury and streetwear, offering a chic, feminine take on the classic trainer.
The mix of colours and materials creates a striking contrast, appealing to those who want sophistication with a street edge. Teyana’s design is a proper nod to her Harlem heritage and a standout in the Air Jordan 1 lineup.
Brands That Redefined the Air Jordan 1
Besides collabs with artists, some top-tier brands have also put their stamp on the Air Jordan 1, taking the trainer to new heights.
Off-White x Air Jordan 1
Virgil Abloh, the genius behind Off-White, is known for his bold, deconstructed designs. His 2017 collab with Nike, dubbed “The Ten,” shook up the Air Jordan 1 scene with its iconic orange tag and exposed stitching. This trainer redefined what premium streetwear could be, blending high fashion with sneaker culture in a way that’s still talked about today.
Abloh’s knack for challenging design norms made this Air Jordan 1 a game-changer, cementing its place as a cornerstone of streetwear and sneakerhead fashion.
Dior x Air Jordan 1
In 2020, the sneaker world was gobsmacked when Christian Dior joined forces with Jordan Brand. The Air Jordan 1 OG High Dior, handcrafted in Italy with premium leather and monogram jacquard details, is pure luxury. Limited to just 8,500 pairs worldwide, it’s a collector’s dream, proving the Air Jordan 1 can strut its stuff on both the court and the catwalk.
This collab showed that the Air Jordan 1 can bridge high fashion and streetwear, making it a proper icon across both worlds.
Fragment Design (Hiroshi Fujiwara)
Hiroshi Fujiwara, the Japanese streetwear legend behind Fragment Design, dropped a minimalist masterpiece with the Air Jordan 1 in 2014. With a sleek black-and-white base and a standout Swoosh, plus the Fragment logo on the heel and tongue, this trainer is both understated and iconic. It’s still a holy grail for collectors.
Fujiwara’s design proves less is more, blending sophistication with street cred in a way that resonates with sneakerheads and fashionistas alike.
Gatorade: A Sporty Throwback
The Gatorade x Air Jordan 1 collab, launched in 2017, is a nostalgic nod to Michael Jordan’s love for the sports drink. With colourways like “Lemon Lime,” “Orange,” and “Grape,” plus packaging styled like Gatorade bottles, these trainers are a proper throwback. The green and orange accents echo the brand’s logo, bringing a sporty vibe to the streets.
This collab shows how sports brands and sneaker culture can team up to create trainers that are more than just stylish—they’re full of energy and heritage.
Stores That Became Legends
Retailers have also played a massive role in the Air Jordan 1’s collab history, with some shops becoming proper landmarks in the streetwear scene.
Union Los Angeles: A Blend of Old and New
Union Los Angeles, a heavyweight in the sneaker world, dropped a game-changing Air Jordan 1 collab with Nike in 2018. Mixing classic and modern vibes with blue and orange hues, this trainer channels California’s streetwear roots. It’s a perfect blend of laid-back style and high-end appeal, making Union a true icon in the sneaker scene.
The collab was an instant hit, solidifying Union Los Angeles as a go-to spot for sneakerheads chasing unique designs.
A Ma Maniére
A Ma Maniére, a luxury boutique, brought a touch of class to the Air Jordan 1 in 2021. With premium white leather and rich burgundy details, this trainer screams sophistication. It’s a prime example of how streetwear can meet high-end fashion, creating a proper exclusive piece.
The design’s elegance and quality make it a standout, appealing to those who want their trainers to make a statement.
Sneaker Politics
Sneaker Politics, a boutique hailing from Lafayette, LA since 2006, put their spin on the Air Jordan 1 Low in 2019. With a white upper, brown midsole, pink outsoles, and their signature “P” logo alongside a subtle Nike Swoosh, this trainer is a proper standout. It’s a fresh take that blends Southern charm with streetwear flair.
Designers, Athletes, and Special Collabs
Zion Williamson Voodoo: New Orleans Vibes
Basketball star Zion Williamson brought a slice of New Orleans to the Air Jordan 1 with his “Voodoo” collab in 2021. Inspired by the city’s voodoo culture and Southern roots, the trainer rocks earthy tones for a unique, personal vibe. It’s a proper nod to Zion’s heritage and a standout in the Air Jordan lineup.
Spike Lee
Filmmaker and Michael Jordan mate Spike Lee has worked with Jordan Brand on several Air Jordan 1 collabs, often weaving in cinematic themes. His “Mars Blackmon” edition, inspired by his character from She’s Gotta Have It, adds a playful, nostalgic twist while tackling social and racial issues. These trainers are proper works of art.
Lee’s creative approach shows the Air Jordan 1 can be more than a trainer—it’s a canvas for storytelling and cultural commentary.
Dave White Wings
British artist Dave White brought his bold, expressionist style to the Air Jordan 1 in 2014 with the “Wings” collab. Featuring intricate, bird-inspired illustrations, the design captures a sense of freedom and movement. It’s a cracking example of how trainers can double as art, pushing the boundaries of sneaker culture.
Dave White’s work proves the Air Jordan 1 is a proper canvas for creativity, blending art and fashion in a way that’s pure class.
Aleali May: Smashing Gender Norms
Fashion influencer Aleali May made history as the first woman to design a unisex Air Jordan 1 in 2017. Her pink suede and army green velvet trainer, inspired by her childhood wardrobe, challenges gender norms and celebrates authenticity. It’s a bold, vibrant design that’s proper groundbreaking.
Aleali’s ongoing work with Jordan Brand promotes inclusion and diversity, giving women a louder voice in the sneakerhead world.
Nigel Sylvester: From BMX to Street Style
BMX pro Nigel Sylvester brought his high-octane energy to the Air Jordan 1 in 2018. His distressed design, complete with extra laces and custom tags, mirrors the wear and tear of an active lifestyle. It’s a trainer that’s as functional for tricks as it is stylish for the streets.
Nigel’s collab captures the rebellious spirit of BMX, inspiring athletes to carve their own path while staying true to the Air Jordan 1’s urban roots.
Melody Ehsani: Fashion with a Purpose
Iranian-American designer Melody Ehsani turned the Air Jordan 1 into a bold statement in 2019. With a clock on the tongue symbolising the value of time, and proceeds supporting women’s causes, this trainer is as meaningful as it is stylish. It’s a proper call to action for sustainable fashion and social change.
Melody’s design shows the Air Jordan 1 can be a force for good, blending innovation with a message that resonates globally.
Doernbecher: Stories of Courage
Nike’s Doernbecher Freestyle programme lets hospitalised kids design their own Air Jordan 1s, with proceeds supporting children’s hospitals. Each pair tells a heartfelt story of resilience, turning the trainer into a symbol of hope and courage.
These collabs highlight the Air Jordan 1’s power to support worthy causes, making it more than just a trainer—it’s a beacon of inspiration.
Spider-Man Across the Spider-Verse Prowler: (Friends and Family)
In 2023, Jordan Brand dropped a limited “friends and family” Air Jordan 1 Retro High OG SP Utility inspired by Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse. With dark tones and metallic accents nodding to the villain Prowler, this trainer caused a proper stir among comic book and sneaker fans alike.
This collab shows how the Air Jordan 1 can tap into pop culture, connecting with diverse audiences through exclusive designs.
The Air Jordan 1 High OG “Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse” is a cracking collab between Jordan Brand and Marvel, inspired by the animated film. Launched in 2023, it pays homage to Miles Morales’ costume with a bold design. Unlike the Prowler edition, this one hit the shelves in larger numbers, making it a proper fan favourite.
Michelle Wie West Aloha: Hawaiian Vibes
Hawaiian golfer Michelle Wie West brought a tropical twist to the Air Jordan 1 in 2020. With floral patterns and pastel shades, this trainer captures the laid-back beauty of Hawaii. It’s both calming and vibrant, spreading messages of peace and cultural pride.
Michelle’s collab is a proper showcase of how the Air Jordan 1 can share cultural stories with the world.
Rui Hachimura: Asian Pride
Japanese NBA star Rui Hachimura’s 2020 Air Jordan 1 collab, inspired by oatmeal, rocks neutral tones and subtle nods to his heritage. The minimalist design carries a powerful message of Asian representation, inspiring young athletes to chase their dreams.
Rui’s trainer is a reminder that the Air Jordan 1 can amplify underrepresented voices in sport and culture.
Pomb: Urban Art in Motion
Brazilian artist Pomb brought his vibrant street art to the Air Jordan 1 in 2021. With intricate designs blending natural and geometric elements, this trainer captures the chaos and harmony of urban life. It’s a proper showcase of global creativity.
Pomb’s collab expands the definition of sneaker art, proving the Air Jordan 1 is a canvas for cultural expression worldwide.
Lance Mountain: Skate Culture Meets Air Jordan
Skateboarding legend Lance Mountain teamed up with Nike SB in 2014 for an Air Jordan 1 that pays homage to 1980s skate culture. With removable leather layers revealing different colours as they wear, plus details like the Nike SB logo and hand-stitched Swoosh, this trainer is a proper nod to the DIY spirit of skateboarding.
Lance’s design tells the story of the Air Jordan 1’s evolution across sports and subcultures, keeping it fresh and relevant.
Eric Koston: Skate Simplicity
Skateboarding icon Eric Koston’s 2020 Nike SB x Air Jordan 1 collab is all about clean, functional design. With a grey suede and leather palette, a low-profile Swoosh, and a grippy vulcanized outsole, this trainer is perfect for skaters and streetwear fans alike.
Koston’s work celebrates the shared roots of basketball and skateboarding, proving the Air Jordan 1 can evolve while staying true to its core.
Conclusion: The Air Jordan 1 as a Creative Canvas
Over the years, the Air Jordan 1 has shown it’s more than just a trainer—it’s a proper platform for creativity. From artists and athletes to brands and retailers, each collab tells a unique story, celebrating diverse cultures and visions.
The Air Jordan 1 is a bridge between generations, styles, and passions. It’s a reminder that no matter your background or what you’re into, there’s a place for you in its story.
So, whether you’re rocking a classic pair or a rare collab, you’re not just wearing a trainer—you’re wearing a piece of history, a bold statement, and a celebration of individuality. That’s the real magic of the Air Jordan 1.
