The Nike Air Jordan 1 is nonpareil, a sui generis. “Iconic” is the adjective most apt, the only one that undisputedly deserves it. A paragon of sneaker design, the archetype that has inspired countless others.

Crafted by one Peter Moore and released in 1985, the “Michael Jordan” of Air Jordans, has left an indelible mark on the zeitgeist of eras beyond its own. No predecessor or successor, no matter how beloved, has come close to its cultural cachet.

As its 40th anniversary in 2025 approaches, it’s difficult to comprehend the passage of time. Its timeless design, revered by many as the epitome of perfection, has served as a canvas for countless collaborators and customizers. Across its four decades, a myriad of colorways have been introduced, and in lieu of the milestone, are expected to make a grand homecoming.

Among the most anticipated returns are the OG members of the AJ1 family, such as the “Black Toe Reimagined” (October 2024); the quintessential “Bred” (February 2025); the “UNC Reimagined” (Summer 2025); as well as the official debut of the “Reverse Shadow” colorway (Summer 2025), a mythic sample pair finally getting its time in the sun.

But lest we forget, the fan-favorite “Shattered Backboard”, alongside new additions such as the yet-unseen Swarovski collaboration.

The OG colorways of the Nike Air Jordan 1

With these hallmark colorways confirmed, there is anticipation for the possibility that similarly legendary pairs will return. Only the powers that be know which AJ1s in the pantheon will grace us with their presence next year. Nevertheless, mere mortals speculate.

Thus, here are our picks for the best Air Jordan 1 colorways that need a comeback for its 40th anniversary:

Travis Scott x fragment design x Nike Air Jordan 1 Retro High OG SP
“Military Blue”

Let us address the elephant in the room. The Travis Scott x fragment design x Nike Air Jordan 1 Retro High OG SP is a sartorial masterpiece that undeniably deserves a resurgence. Its initial release in July 2021 for US$200 was met with overwhelming demand, making it a coveted prize for many. The limited quantity further exacerbated its allure, rendering it nearly impossible to acquire.

Even if stripped of its collaborative branding, the silhouette never loses its intrinsic beauty. The harmonious interplay of Military Blue and Sail creates a visually arresting composition. While the FRGMT logo and the reverse Swoosh undoubtedly enhance its appeal, it is the subtle nuances that truly define this masterpiece. The pair-in-question caters to an eclectic audience, from the fashion-forward youth to the mature sophisticate.

As the Air Jordan 1 approaches its 40th anniversary, there is no better time to revive this iconic collaboration for those who missed out on the initial release.

Travis Scott x Nike Air Jordan 1 Retro High OG TS SP
“Sail/Dark Mocha”

The synergy between Travis Scott and Jordan Brand is akin to placing a basketball in the hands of Michael Jordan, a paintbrush in the grasp of Basquiat, or a microphone in the possession of Kendrick Lamar. These “collaborators” elevate their medium to new artistic heights.

While some may question how much water is left in their well, it is undeniable that Travis Scott and Jordan Brand formed an indomitable force during the late 2010s.

If their upcoming Jordan Jumpman Jack were to underperform, a strategic move would be to resurrect this “Dark Mocha” Travis Scott x Nike Air Jordan 1 Retro High OG. Pedigree and nostalgia will reignite enthusiasm and restore the partnership’s momentum.

This revival would serve as a powerful gambit in the unspoken sneaker wars. Nike’s foothold may be slipping, but they still have a strong grip on the industry’s neck.

fragment design x Nike Air Jordan 1 Retro High OG
“Black/Sport Royal/White”

Hiroshi Fujiwara, the Godfather of Streetwear, has consistently demonstrated his Midas touch through his two-decades-long partnership with Nike. Together, the two orchestrated some of the most innovative transformations of classic silhouettes, pioneering the nascent intersection of streetwear and sneakers.

The fragment design x Nike Air Jordan 1 Retro High OG from 2014 stands as a testament to their collaborative brilliance. How does one make something original out of something so familiar? That’s where fragment design (FRGMT) showcases Fujiwara’s mastery of the art of reinvention.

This reimagined masterpiece, a canvas of neutral hues, showcases Fujiwara’s ability to elevate familiar canvases with unexpected twists. Sport Royal, FRGMT’s signature color, takes center stage, and introduces a captivating contrast against the AJ1’s understated elegance; striking like the label’s thunderbolt insignia.

Dior x Nike Air Jordan 1 High OG
“AIR DIOR”

The once-distinct worlds of sneaker culture and high fashion have converged, forging a dynamic two-way street. However, no collaboration has reached the celestial heights of the Dior x Nike Air Jordan 1 High OG. This unprecedented partnership, a bridge between two seemingly disparate domains, propelled the Air Jordan 1 from the hardwood of the United Center to the marble floors of Dior’s fashion house.

The Air Jordan 1 flew well above expectations, outliving eras, but landing in the luxury realm is even higher than the clouds it used to walk on. By some miracle, a rerelease of this unprecedented collaboration, even with a simple colorway update, would indubitably summon renewed excitement.

Off-White x Nike Air Jordan 1 Retro High
“Chicago“

The Off-White x Nike Air Jordan 1 Retro High OG “Chicago” epitomizes the groundbreaking nature of Virgil Abloh’s body of work. The pair, the cornerstone of “The Ten” collection, introduced the world to the deconstructivist aesthetic.

Abloh’s 3 percent rule, a philosophy that “[introduces] something new by changing a process, product, or perspective by only 3 percent,” retained the shoe’s hallmarks and essence while infusing it with a contemporary edge.

The unfinished aesthetic, showcasing the shoe as a work in progress rather than a polished product, added a layer of intrigue and authenticity. This departure from traditional design conventions resonated deeply with even the most ardent luddites.

While a return of the Off-White x Nike Air Jordan 1 Retro High OG “Chicago” in the near future seems unlikely, the rumor mill suggests a potential revival in 2027, coinciding with the 10th anniversary of “The Ten” collection.

Nike Air Jordan 1 Retro High OG XQ
“Ignite Shanghai”

Originally unveiled in 2007 as a China-exclusive release, the Air Jordan 1 Retro High OG XQ quickly garnered a cult following, with an estimated production of only 240 pairs.

The XQ’s allure lies in its distinctive embellishments, such as the embossed stars and intricate patterning, methodically crafted onto the upper. Although a wider release followed in 2013, the XQ’s mystique endures. Even pairs from this subsequent drop command a premium resale value.

Levi’s x Nike Air Jordan 1 23/501 Mid
“Denim Pack”

Launched in 2008, this Levi’s x Air Jordan partnership blazed a trail, marking a pivotal moment in a burgeoning street culture, which subsumed the sneaker scene.

The release, featuring a Varsity Red/Midnight Navy-Khaki-White makeup, was welcomed with fervent enthusiasm. With a production run of only 2,323 pairs, the collaboration’s scarcity further fueled its allure, being one of the culture’s earliest “grails”, and a catalyst to the hype marketing model everyone is all too familiar with today.

Beyond the visual appeal, the collaboration showcased a masterful blend of craftsmanship hitherto unseen at the time. The elephant-printed denim base, adorned with Varsity Red leather overlays, paid homage to Levi’s heritage. The strategic placement of Levi’s branding hallmarks, including the red tab and branded buttons, introduced innovative design elements into footwear.

The presentation was equally impressive. The accompanying packaging featured graphics by the acclaimed London-based designer, I Love Dust; that further enhanced the overall experience, solidifying the Air Jordan 1 x Levi’s as a certified collector’s item.

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The return of the OG colorways is a fitting enough tribute to the AJ1’s pedigree. Still, one can hope that the pairs-in-question will be rereleased. Although they were, initially in limited quantities, one-off endeavors; the momentous occasion, marking four decades of excellence, is the perfect opportunity to let these gems shine their light again.

Until the celebratory curtain rises, we invite you to explore the vast expanse of SNKRDUNK’s Nike Air Jordan 1 catalogue.

Signed, game-worn Nike Air Jordan 1 High “Chicago”

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For the latest news and updates on sneakers, streetwear, and TCGs, stay tuned to SNKRDUNK Magazine and follow us on social media. To experience these items firsthand, visit our brick-and-mortar stores in Singapore and Japan.

Image Source: Stadium Goods; JUICESTORE; Sneaker Files; Sotheby’s; Nike; HYPEBEAST; The New York Times

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