SOLE COLLECTOR: Sneakers

Jordan I

The design of the Air Jordan Is came courtesy of then head of design at Nike, Peter Moore. Moore’s creation shared many similarities with the most popular kicks of the day: the Air Force 1, Dunk and Terminator. It’s probably no coincidence that each of these models continues to enjoy popularity today with their simple, timeless designs.

Technology-wise, the cushioning in the forefoot was provided via a firm foam, while an encapsulated Air Unit softened things up a bit more in the heel. It may not have been groundbreaking from a technology standpoint, but up until MJ hit the league, there had never been a need to step up the performance of a shoe quite like he demanded. Thanks to MJ, the game would never be the same, and the footwear was basically forced to evolve.

The original colorways worn by MJ included White Black Red, the Black Toe version of White Black Red and Black Red the latter of which drew fines from the NBA for its lack of white in the color-scheme.

In a move that was shockingly ahead of its time, a plethora of additional colorways of the Air Jordan I were released. It is uncertain as to exactly how many different versions exist, but colorways issued to college teams like the University of Washington, Georgetown and UNC would foreshadow what would become an important element of the line in the years to come. It shouldn’t come as much of a surprise that these obscure first generation colorways fetch thousands on the open market. As prized as the more well-known colorways are, rarities like the Metallics easily surpass them in terms of value. The original White Black Red and Black Red colorways were first released as Retros in 1994. A lot has been said about the relatively cold response they received, but much like the original Jordan I did, these Retros would eventually turn the market upside down. Subsequent re-releases have followed regularly since 2001. One of the most notable Retro Is is 2002s White Metallic Silver colorway most remembered for its lack of Swoosh, which was replaced by a small Jumpman logo. 2007 offered a Retro that fans had demanded for years the original Black Toes, which released with a black and yellow, MJ race-team-inspired Air Jordan I to form the Old Love New Love pack.

Its performance may be forgettable, but its design and legacy most certainly are not. It might not be the only important and memorable shoe from another era, but no other pair of kicks has influenced and inspired a sport, market and lifestyle more than the original Air Jordan.