As a sneaker enthusiast with over two decades of experience under my belt, I must say that the upcoming Air Jordan 1 releases for 2023 are truly a sight to behold. The rich history and iconic design of the Air Jordan 1 have been expertly woven into these latest drops, catering to both old-school collectors like myself and newcomers who appreciate the timeless appeal of this classic silhouette.

From the anticipated “Bred” and “Royal” high-tops to the retro-inspired “Phantom” low-top, each pair offers a unique take on the Air Jordan 1 that speaks to the diverse tastes of the sneaker community. The return of OG-sized Swooshes in the “Phantom” low-top is particularly exciting for those of us who have longed for that iconic detail to make a comeback.

However, my personal favorite has got to be the “Year of the Snake” collection. As someone who values cultural appreciation and inclusivity, I find it truly remarkable that Jordan Brand continues to celebrate the Lunar New Year with such enthusiasm and respect for tradition. The pearl iridescent upper on the standard AJ1 Low is a stunning nod to the vibrant energy of the Year of the Snake, while the OG version’s white-to-gray gradient perfectly encapsulates the grace and elegance that the snake symbolizes in Chinese culture.

Of course, no sneaker discussion would be complete without a little humor: I can’t help but wonder if Jordan Brand will ever release an Air Jordan 1 with a “Year of the Accountant” colorway, just for those of us who spend our days crunching numbers instead of jumping hoops. Until then, I’ll happily add these stunning new Air Jordan 1s to my collection and eagerly await the next drop!

The Air Jordan 1 significantly impacted the sneaker industry’s development into what it is today, having been first launched by Michael Jordan and Nike back in 1985. This iconic shoe paved the way for the Jordan Brand, a multi-billion dollar company that has gained legendary stature comparable to its namesake. Over time, the Air Jordan 1 expanded beyond its role as a performance shoe, transforming into a globally recognized symbol, synonymous with classic style and athletic accomplishment. As it turns 40 in 2025, this timeless sneaker continues to celebrate its cultural impact.

As a long-time sneaker enthusiast who has been following the Adidas brand for decades, I’ve eagerly anticipated the release of the AJ1’s 40th anniversary collection. With my memories of wearing the original Air Jordans and the excitement they brought to basketball culture still fresh in my mind, this upcoming milestone year promises to be a significant moment in sneaker history. The rumors and teasers of collaborations, classic re-releases, and new colorways have built up anticipation for what is sure to be an unforgettable lineup. I’ve compiled a list of 20 AJ1 releases that I’m most looking forward to seeing this year, although I understand that some may not make it to store shelves due to speculation and early reporting. It’s going to be a thrilling ride, and I can hardly wait!

Collaborations

fragment design x Travis Scott x Air Jordan 1 Low OG

Once more, we’re looking at a collaboration between Travis Scott and the AJ1 Low OG for another year. This successful partnership is returning to team up with fragment design again, combining their iconic bright blue shade with off-white tones for yet another highly anticipated release from the group. The distinctive elements of Travis Scott’s style, such as his reversed lateral Swoosh and Cactus Jack branding, along with fragment design’s lightning bolt logo, are back together, promising to delight fans once more.

Union LA x Air Jordan 1 High OG

In 2018, Union LA made a significant impact with their unique take on the AJ1 High OG, blending different colorways in a creative way – specifically, joining the collar of one original colorway onto another pair to create the “Storm Blue/Bred” and “Black Toe/Neutral Grey” combinations. This innovative approach was well-received and is being revisited for 2025, with a new twist that combines a “Chicago” base with a “Shadow” collar. The two original colorways once again come together to create an exciting fusion that sneaker enthusiasts will be eagerly vying to acquire.

Rui Hachimura x Air Jordan 1 Low OG “Cranes”

Rui Hachimura might not have a unique shoe model with Jordan Brand, but he’s left an impression in the sneaker world by customizing his Player Exclusives (PEs) to reflect his Japanese heritage. This NBA player from the Los Angeles Lakers is set to launch a new “Cranes” colorway this year, which is essentially an update of a 2022 PE design. The base color is “Oatmeal”, and it features cherry blossoms (sakura) and cranes across the upper, giving the silhouette a serene appearance overall.

Off-White™ x Air Jordan 1 High OG

For the past decade, Off-White™ and Jordan Brand have been behind some highly anticipated sneaker releases, particularly their versions of the Air Jordan 1 High OG, which have become legendary. It’s been almost seven years since they introduced a new colorway of their deconstructed AJ1 design, but whispers suggest that we might see a fourth pair in 2025. The specifics are yet to be revealed, leaving room for speculation. However, one thing is certain: if this release materializes, it’s likely to be one of the most eagerly awaited drops of the year.

fragment design x Union LA x Air Jordan 1 High OG

As a long-time sneaker enthusiast with decades of collecting under my belt, I must say that the rumored collaboration between Union LA, Jordan Brand, and Hiroshi Fujiwara’s fragment design has me absolutely thrilled! With a rich history of groundbreaking collaborations between these powerhouses, this trio promises to deliver an iconic remix of one of the sneaker scene’s most beloved models. Although details are scarce at present, I can confidently predict that this collaboration will be a major game-changer in the world of sneakers, and I eagerly await further information on its release.

Swarovski x Air Jordan 1

Swarovski crystals have adorned Nike shoes before, creating high-end versions of popular models like the Air Max 97. Yet, Swarovski and Jordan Brand haven’t collaborated on a shoe previously. This collaboration is rumored to bring not one but two distinct Air Jordan 1s. These will be available in both low and high-top designs. The shoes are expected to feature gray finishes that sparkle with crystals embedded, possibly pricing them over $1,000 USD each.

Nigel Sylvester x Air Jordan 1 Low OG “Nitro”

Nigel Sylvester’s unwavering affection for the Air Jordan 1 has led to another collaboration involving the shoe. Sylvester showcased his distinct design of the high-top in September 2018 and is eager to continue in 2025. The upcoming pair, which is said to be the AJ1 Low OG with oversized Swooshes, will reportedly feature a “Nitro” color scheme that merges black, off-white, and red.

Classics

Air Jordan 1 High OG “Black Toe Reimagined”

Starting off with the “Classics” segment, Jordan Brand is delving into the past to reexamine an AJ1 “Black Toe” promotional pair from 1984 as part of its “Reimagined” collection. Originally slated for release in October, this specific pair has been postponed until 2025. Plenty of sneak peeks have been given, emphasizing the “Air Jordan” text at the collar that mirrors the 1984 sample, the discreet “My Very Best, Michael Jordan,” script at the left shoe’s medial collar inspired by a pair Jordan made for a friend, and unique packaging that pays homage to the first Air Jordan marketing campaign.

Air Jordan 1 High ’85 “Bred”

To celebrate the 40th anniversary of the AJ1, Jordan Brand has specially designed several popular color schemes inspired by the original ’85 design, such as this “Bred” edition. Modifications include a retro-styled Swoosh, less prominent Wings logo, and a slightly elevated collar. The classic black and red color scheme is back once again.

Air Jordan 1 High ‘85 “Royal”

If the “Bred” colorway isn’t your preferred Air Jordan 1 style, don’t worry because the iconic “Royal” version is set to release in its original ’85 design. Recently, Chase B showcased his pair, emphasizing its top-notch construction that rivals its “Bred” counterpart. What makes this unanticipated reveal interesting is that there were no prior rumors about its release date, leaving us with limited information. However, keep your eyes peeled as the blue and black color scheme will likely make a comeback at some point in the future.

Air Jordan 1 High OG “UNC Reimagined”

For 2025, a fresh take on the AJ1 High OG, dubbed “Reimagined” version 2, is approaching, with the iconic “UNC” colorway making its comeback. Although we haven’t caught a glimpse of the shoe yet, sneaker leaker zSneakerHeadz hints that it will feature a nostalgic design reminiscent of the 2022 “Lost & Found” or “Chicago Reimagined” pair. Given the previous version’s success and the appeal of the “UNC” color scheme, this release is expected to generate significant buzz once again.

Air Jordan 1 High OG “Shattered Backboard”

For quite some time now, sneaker enthusiasts have been hoping that the “Shattered Backboard” design from 2015 will come back into production. This specific pair, known for its premium leather construction and distinctive color scheme, is said to be re-released to celebrate its 10th anniversary. Keep an eye out as it’s expected to bring together shades of “Black,” “Sail” and a vibrant “Starfish” orange to recreate the basketball-inspired look.

Air Jordan 1 Low OG “Chicago”

The “Classics” area is completed with its single AJ1 Low OG addition – rumors of the return of the iconic “Chicago” style. Last seen in 2016, this reappearance seems fitting given the passage of time, particularly considering we’re a few years past the launch of the “Chicago Reimagined” high-tops. As is customary, a base made of white leather should be paired with “Varsity Red” on the overlays and “Black” at the Swooshes and heel branding.

Newcomers

Air Jordan 1 High OG “Rare Air” Pack

Moving into the new year, one of Jordan Brand’s exciting lineups is the “Rare Air” collection. This series includes a total of two AJ1 High OGs, AJ3, AJ4, and an anticipated AJ11. Each shoe in this collection showcases redesigned branding. The two AJ1s come in colors “Cinnabar” and “Deep Royal Blue,” with both pairs boasting the “Nike Air” logo on some of their collars.

Air Jordan 1 Low OG “Obsidian”

In 2019, we released the AJ1 High OG “Obsidian”. This design is being reimagined as a Low OG version for 2025. Similar to its high-top forerunner, the prominent overlays and Swooshes will be navy, while details at the heel lean towards “University Blue.” The foundation of the leather upper and the midsole stitching will maintain a “Sail” color.

Air Jordan 1 Low OG “Rookie of the Year”

Just like how the “Obsidian” colorway is a modern twist on the high-top Air Jordan 1, the AJ1 Low OG “Rookie of the Year” takes this fresh color scheme from its tall counterpart and transforms it into a sleek low-top version. The 2018 edition recaptures the spirit of Michael Jordan’s historic rookie year in 1985, with its distinctive color blocking now gracing the AJ1 Low OG. Rich golden brown nubuck panels sit upon a pristine white leather base, while black accents appear on the Swooshes, collar, and outsole.

Air Jordan 1 Low (OG) “Year of the Snake”

Every year, Jordan Brand honors the Lunar New Year by creating a wide range of footwear, frequently incorporating the AJ1 Low in both regular and original styles. This tradition continues this year as both editions of the AJ1 are designed to celebrate the Year of the Snake. The standard design boasts an iridescent pearl upper enhanced by textured white details. Meanwhile, the OG version showcases a leather upper starting with a white base that shifts to gray at the overlays and silver on the Swooshes.

Air Jordan 1 High ‘85 “Reverse Shadow”

As a long-time fan of the Air Jordan 1 High ’85, I can’t help but get excited about the rumored “Reverse Shadow” colorway that’s expected to drop soon. With my collection already bursting at the seams with various “Bred” and “Royal” pairs, this new addition will surely be a welcome addition.

The color blocking of the “Shadow 2.0” is particularly appealing to me because it brings back memories of one of my favorite AJ1 High OG releases from 2021. The black base with gray overlays and Swooshes creates a classic, timeless look that never goes out of style.

Moreover, I appreciate the fact that this new release will be closer to the original design, as it ensures that the authenticity and quality are maintained. I’m looking forward to getting my hands on this pair and adding it to my ever-growing collection. The anticipation is killing me, but the wait will be worth it!

Air Jordan 1 High OG “Black/Summit White”

As an excited enthusiast, I can’t help but share the latest buzz about the upcoming colorway for the AJ1 High OG. The rumored “Black/Summit White” edition is set to make a splash in the sneaker world! Although I haven’t had the chance to catch a glimpse of the pair yet, word on the street is that it will showcase black and white hues across its design, offering a unique twist compared to previous black-and-white versions of this iconic shoe.

Air Jordan 1 Low OG “Phantom”

As a long-time sneaker enthusiast who has been waiting for years to see the return of the iconic OG Swooshes on the Air Jordan 1 Low, I am thrilled to hear that a “Phantom” version is rumored to be in the works. My love for sneakers started when I was just a kid, growing up in a small town where fashion was a way to express myself and connect with others who shared my passion. The Air Jordan 1 has always been one of my favorite models, and the OG colorway is iconic. I remember how excited I was when I finally got a pair of the original AJ1s back in high school, and I’ve been hooked ever since.

Now that the “Phantom” version is said to be on the horizon, I can hardly contain my excitement. The black, red, and off-white colorway is classic and timeless, and I think it will look great on the retro-inspired design of the shoe. I’ve been eagerly following sneaker news for years, and I know that many other sneakerheads feel the same way. This new release is sure to be a hit with collectors and fans alike.

I can’t wait to see more details about the “Phantom” Air Jordan 1 Low OG, and I’ll definitely be keeping my eyes peeled for a release date. It’s always exciting when something from my childhood comes back around, and this is one piece of nostalgia that I’m looking forward to adding to my collection.

Stay tuned for weekly editions of Best Footwear Drops to keep up with the latest Air Jordan 1 news.

2025-01-03 01:27

An Unofficial Guide to the Air Jordan 1’s 40th Anniversary