The Air Jordan 1, often referred to as the first sneaker of a generation, is an iconic symbol that changed basketball, footwear, and fashion forever. Its design, form, and function exploded into a cult of personality that is bigger and broader than anyone ever expected. This guide will delve into the history and evolution of the Air Jordan 1 and explore the best colorways released since its debut in 1985.
The Beginning
Before we dive into the iconic silhouette of the Air Jordan 1, it's essential to start with how Nike landed the greatest basketball player in history. After Michael Jordan finished his college basketball career at the University of North Carolina, he was drafted third overall by the Chicago Bulls in 1984. After this, every sportswear brand wanted Michael Jordan and would pitch themselves to the young Jordan and his parents.
Nike would be the one to land Michael Jordan with a legacy deal that would earn Jordan $500,000 a year, the biggest in NBA history at the time. Nike’s main selling point, which convinced Jordan, was building an entirely separate basketball product line around him. This deal used up all of Nike Basketball’s budget at the time and would turn out to be the greatest gamble in athlete endorsement history.
Design and Debut
Nike's first Creative Director, Peter Moore, was tasked with designing the Air Jordan 1. Michael Jordan wanted something different than the typical Nike and Converse basketball shoes already out. He didn’t want a shoe high off the court like Nike’s latest releases, which used their newest Air technology. After one specific design meeting with Jordan, Moore sketched the winged logo on a cocktail napkin during a flight back to the Nike HQ. This logo, featuring a basketball in the middle, became the hallmark of the Jordan 1. Returning to Nike HQ, Moore went to work and designed a silhouette that became timeless.
The Air Jordan would debut on April 1, 1985, at a retail price of $64.99. Nike aimed to sell 100,000 pairs in its first year and reach $3 million in revenue by year 4. Instead, Nike generated $55-$65 million in revenue during year one, with millions of pairs being sold. From then on, it was clear that Michael Jordan’s new signature line would change things forever. Although Jordan has openly stated his dislike for some of the colorways, he stuck with Moore’s vision, and the rest is history.
Best Original Colorways
Air Jordan 1 'Chicago'
Air Jordan 1 'Bred/Banned'
Air Jordan 1 'Black Toe'
Air Jordan 1 'Royal'
The Ban
Interestingly, the Jordan 1 was briefly banned by the NBA for going against their shoe policy that stated every shoe must have a 51% white design. Michael Jordan was fined $5,000 by the NBA every time he wore the shoes during their debut in 1984 because their colors broke the league's uniform rules. The league even wrote an infamous letter to Nike in February 1985 explaining that the black and red shoes were prohibited. Nike capitalized on this, paying the fines for Jordan and creating an ad campaign that played on that forbidden fruit quality. This played in Nike’s favor as the campaign was a success and a leading factor in the early success of the shoe.
Best Collaborations
Fragment Design x Air Jordan 1
Off-White x Air Jordan 1
Union LA x Air Jordan 1
Dior x Air Jordan 1
Travis Scott x Air Jordan 1
Where To Buy The Air Jordan 1
Whether you are an avid sneaker collector or just looking for your first pair, finding authentic Air Jordan 1s can be difficult. When it comes to a trusted destination, KICKS CREW stands out, exclusively collaborating with verified retailers for your peace of mind. Below are some of our best sellers.
Air Jordan 1 High 'Lost & Found'
Air Jordan 1 High 'UNC Toe'
Air Jordan 1 High 'Palomino'
Air Jordan 1 High 'Yellow Toe'
The legacy of the Air Jordan 1 extends beyond the basketball court where it debuted, becoming a cultural icon that transcends generations. As enthusiasts continue to appreciate and embrace the rich history of this iconic sneaker, the Air Jordan 1 remains not just a footwear choice but a symbol of self-expression, individuality, and enduring design brilliance.
