It’s the shoe that pretty marks the beginning of sneaker culture as we know it. Michael Jordan’s first-ever Air Jordan release, the “Chicago” Air Jordan 1, may be the single most revered sneaker in the hobby. A deadstock pair of the last retro from 2015 costs about $2,000 and game-worn pairs from Jordan’s rookie season are regularly fetching $500,000+ at auction. Fortunately, it appears that everyone will have a shot at a significantly cheaper pair this holiday season.
zSneakerheadz reports that the “Chicago” Air Jordan 1 is heading back to retail in Reimagined form. According to Z, the shoe will feature a vintage/aged look and a shape closer to the originals from ‘85, including an “improved toebox.” Additionally, it’s being speculated that Air Jordan 1 prices will be increasing in the future, but that hasn’t been confirmed.
Last year, the “Chicago” style was delivered through Trophy Room’s “Freeze Out” collaboration and the returning Air Jordan 1 KO. A low-top version for the golf course recently surfaced as well.
Expect updates on this highly anticipated release in the months ahead.
UPDATE (06/03): Previewed just yesterday, we now have a closer look at an unfinished pair of the “Chicago” Air Jordan 1 Reimagined courtesy of @Wavegod_thelegend and @Sneakertigger.
(UPDATE 06/09): A detailed look at the upcoming “Chicago” Air Jordan 1 Reimagined via Sneakertigger. In this set, pre-aged details such as yellowing and cracked leather are clearly visible. No official announcements about the release have been made at the time of this update.
UPDATE (08/04): New images of the “Chicago” Air Jordan 1 Reimagined have surfaced courtesy of @Chriscolgan on Instagram. Included in the photos is a first look at the accompanying pre-aged shoe box. As of now, the sneaker is reportedly hitting stores in Oct. 29 but check back soon to Sole Collector for official updates in the coming weeks.
UPDATE (08/09): Originally expected for an October release, the Air Jordan 1 Reimagined “Chicago” is now set to drop on Nov. 19 per @zSneakerheadz.
UPDATE (08/16): Additional details about the inspiration behind this year’s “Chicago” Air Jordan 1 release have emerged. Per @MrUnloved_1s and @zSneakerheadz, this “Lost and Found” Air Jordan 1 High shown here is inspired by original unsold pairs of the “Chicago” Jordan 1 Highs that were found at mom and pop shops in the ‘80s. The shoe features an aged look and comes with vintage-styled packaging including a throwback receipt, discount stickers, and a replacement lid. As of now, the shoe is currently rumored to release on Nov. 19.
Air Jordan 1 Reimagined “Chicago”
Release Date: 11/19/22
Style #: DZ5485-612
Price: $180
