Jordan AJ 1

The Air Jordan, later known as the “Air Jordan 1” once subsequent models began hitting the market, became the Jordan Retro 1 once it began seeing re-release in 1994. But Michael’s first season in pro sneakers caused quite a stir no matter what was on his feet.

A history of err?

The story goes that Michael’s OG Black/Red Air Jordan was banned by the NBA and that he wore them several times and incurred a fine for doing so, which Nike was more than willing to pay because of the great publicity.

But the reality is that MJ began his career wearing the Air Ship, a style similar to his Air Jordan that would be released later in the season. He did wear that OG signature sneaker in that season’s all-star game and in photo shoots. And he wore a more heavily white version in games in order to comply with the league’s “51 percent rule” that sought to keep shoes aligned with their team colors.

Regardless, Nike didn’t miss its shot, playing off the attention that MJ’s Black/Red shoe got to generate a campaign implying that his shoe was so good, it gave wearers an “unfair competitive advantage.” It all played into our love of being a little rebellious and maybe not always doing what we’re told.

A design for the ages

The Jordan Retro 1 recalls all the layered color blocking of the original. The only Jordan model to wear the Swoosh prominently in its traditional place on the midfoot, that logo is one of the key colored elements, along with the toe box, ankle collar and often the outsole.

The Air Jordan 1 is a takedown of the Retro 1, as it’s available as a mid or as a low. That gives you options for however you want to wear them. Go high with the Retro 1 to rock the OG look. In the Air Jordan 1, you can go mid for something that might fit a little better with jeans or other long pants, or low for a look that works with shorts.

Whichever direction you go, they’re available in sizes for men, women, and kids.

And you can complete your look with Jordan and Jordan Retro apparel; short- and long-sleeve T-shirts, jackets, hoodies, shorts, and fleece pants.