Rubik’s Cube enthusiasts will know that the simultaneously simple and complex puzzle has been the source of motivational quotes for a long time now — a simple Google search brings up philosophical and symbolic interpretations of the Hungary-born game. But at its core, the Cube is about patiently working through a colorful mess to produce a pattern of neat coherence, while presenting new challenges with every refresh… Essentially, hard work pays off, but there’s always something new to learn and solve. Kinda similar to the sportsman’s mentality, don’t you think?

Well, stretch or not, the Jordan team seems to have felt some sort of resonance, since renowned sneaker collector Fat Joe recently previewed a Rubik’s Cube-inspired Air Jordan 1 High over Christmas. Jokingly dubbing himself the sneaker Santa in his caption, the photographed AJ1 resembles the puzzle in its contrasting colors. A deep green takes over the mudguard and collar while doses of red are injected into the toebox. A bright orange is granted access to the laces, Swoosh and soles while yellow rests on lateral overlay. Hits of white are granted on the eyelets. Finishing off the vibrant palette is a royal blue that runs on the socklining, heel and outsole. But beyond copying over the Rubik’s Cube colors, this Air Jordan 1 even imitates the glossy finish of the structure by utilising patent leather panels.

Though no official details have been revealed by Fat Joe or Nike, and chances of a retail drop are relatively low at the moment, there’s still a slim chance that this vibrant sample will see a general release. We look forward to news that will unravel and solve the mystery of its potential release and best believe that we’ll update this article whenever there’s any new information. Be sure to keep this page bookmarked!

In other inspired Jordans, check out this Eight-Nog Air Jordan 8 sample.