Air Jordan 1 Size & Fit Guide

The Air Jordan 1, designed by Peter Moore, revolutionized basketball footwear forever when it launched in 1985. Its unique design and bold colorways sparked controversy, leading to Michael Jordan being fined every game, adding to its allure and marketing. Today, the Air Jordan 1 remains one of the most popular and influential sneaker designs ever created. The shoe's impact extends beyond basketball courts to streetwear and fashion, with a global influence. This article breaks down the sizing and fit of the Air Jordan 1, ensuring you can find your perfect pair.

Different Air Jordan 1 Models

Air Jordan 1 High

The original high-top Air Jordan 1 design was the first interpretation of the shoe designed by Peter Moore. This original high-top design was instrumental in signing Michael Jordan to Nike before his rookie season. The original 1985 releases featured a full leather upper, but newer interpretations of the shoe have departed this and utilized various materials such as suede, nubuck, patent leather, and even denim. Popular colorways like "Bred/Banned" and "Chicago" have become iconic in sneaker culture. The high-top version offers the most traditional Air Jordan look and feel and is by far the most popular globally.

Air Jordan 1 Mid

The Air Jordan 1 Mid offers a slightly lower profile than its high-top counterpart. Rumor has it that MJ preferred this version for its less restrictive feel, though this has never been confirmed. Priced lower than the high-top, the AJ1 Mid is often overlooked, making it more accessible. Its popularity grew through a series of Japan-exclusive releases in the late '90s and early '00s, catching the attention of sneaker collectors worldwide. Today, it remains a sought-after choice for those looking for a more accessible Air Jordan 1 design.

Air Jordan 1 Low

The Air Jordan 1 Low offers a sleeker alternative to its high-top counterpart. There are also two iterations to the Low: the widely released standard version and the more exclusive Original (OG) Low. The standard Air Jordan 1 Low is frequently released and easily accessible, catering to a broader audience. In contrast, the OG Low is released less often and typically only comes in the original 1985 colorways. Both versions feature the original design's iconic swoosh and lace-up closure but differ in height and branding details.

How does the Air Jordan 1 fit?

Men's Air Jordan 1 Fit

The Air Jordan 1 runs true to size for men, but foot shape can affect the fit. Men with narrow feet can go down half a size for a snugger fit if that is preferred. This adjustment also helps prevent the creasing of the shoe if it is a concern for wearers. For instance, if your normal size is US 9.5 and you have narrow feet, you might opt for a US 9 for a more comfortable fit. On the other hand, men with wide feet can go up half a size. This option is ideal for those who prefer a looser fit. Remember, when it comes to sizing up or down in the Air Jordan 1, stay within the half-size range of your typical shoe size.

Women's Air Jordan 1 Fit

Women can wear their typical shoe size when it comes to the Air Jordan 1, as they fit true to size. However, when purchasing men's Air Jordan 1s, women should go one and a half sizes down. For instance, a woman who wears US 7.5 should opt for a US 6 in men's sizing. Conversely, men should go one and a half sizes up when buying women's Air Jordan 1s. This means a man who typically wears US 9.5 should choose US 11 in women's sizing. It is also worth noting that women's Air Jordan 1 releases are often referred to as "WMNS." These guidelines ensure a perfect fit for both genders, allowing everyone to enjoy the iconic Air Jordan style.

Air Jordan 1 Series: OG vs Retro

Retro Series

The term "Retro" refers to any Air Jordan release after its initial debut in the 1980s and 1990s. These retro releases bring back original colorways and can be viewed as "recreations." For example, the Air Jordan 1 'Shadow' first debuted in 1985, but its 2018 re-release is categorized as a "Retro" since it is a recreation of the original. While maintaining the overall fit of the original, retro Jordans may have slight variations due to modern manufacturing techniques. These releases often feature popular color combinations from history, allowing fans to relive nostalgic moments.

OG Series

OG stands for "Original," referring to the first Air Jordan 1 designs that debuted in 1985. OG series shoes maintain the exact specifications and materials of the original 1985 releases. In the early 2000s, Jordan Brand varied away from the same construction and branding details found on the original 1980 and 1990 releases, but now are reverting back to the original specifications of the shoe designs. An example of this is the new Air Jordan 1 High '85 series, which recreates the Air Jordan 1 to its exact 1985 design.

Air Jordan 1 Buyer's Guide

Consider these points when buying the Air Jordan 1 online:

1) Refer to the size chart on our product pages for your specific model (high, mid, or low top).

2) Consider ordering your usual Nike size unless you have specific fit preferences.

3) Be aware that sizing can vary between brands and even within the Air Jordan line.

4) Check customer reviews for insights on fit, as experiences can vary.

5) Remember to utilize our size conversion feature if needed (e.g., US to UK/EU).

6) Don't hesitate to contact customer service with fit-related questions before purchasing.

Finding the right Air Jordan 1 involves considering fit across various models, special editions, and personal preferences. You can make informed choices by understanding the differences between the high, mid, and low top variations. If you already have a pair, sticking with that size is best, but allow for slight growth when purchasing for children. Always remember that proper maintenance, such as storing in cool, dry places and avoiding exposure to moisture, will extend the life of your Air Jordan 1. Whether you're a seasoned collector or just starting your sneaker journey, finding the right size in any shoe is the most important part of enjoying them.