Jordan Brand has produced a comprehensive lineup of Air Jordan 1 High ’85 samples, representing every original colorway from the model’s 1985 debut. In total, sixteen Air Jordan 1 Highs were released that year, or eighteen if including the original “AJKO” variants.

These samples have been recreated in the ’85 cut, a design iteration typically reserved for special releases, as recently showcased through images shared by Jumpman employee @bookofrowan.

Of these original colorways, four have received official retro releases in recent years: “Neutral Grey,” “Black/White,” “Metallic Burgundy,” and “Bred,” released sequentially. However, Jordan Brand has not publicly announced plans to retail the remaining dozen ’85 samples at this time.

Despite the absence of formal release confirmations, several of these colorways have surfaced in public settings, fueling speculation about potential future drops. In December 2024, DJ Chase B, a close associate of Travis Scott, shared images of the Jordan 1 ’85 “Royal” on his Instagram story.

Following this, Nike partner Julian Gaines posted photos of the “Chicago” ’85 sample during a visit to Jordan Brand headquarters in March 2025. More recently, fragment design head honcho Hiroshi Fujiwara was seen wearing the unreleased “UNC” colorway, further highlighting the brand’s ongoing engagement with these archival designs.

The Air Jordan 1 High ’85 “UNC” pays homage to Michael Jordan’s collegiate years at the University of North Carolina, featuring the signature powder blue and white color scheme. This version is noted for its faithful replication of the original 1985 construction and materials, delivering an authentic retro experience. Fujiwara’s public appearance in this sample has intensified anticipation, although Nike has yet to announce an official release date for the “UNC” iteration.

While Jordan Brand’s current strategy involves releasing “reimagined” versions of OG Air Jordan 1 colorways for the Retro High OG line, the brand reserves true 1:1 retros for the ’85 cut. This approach was exemplified by the “Bred” colorway, which received a reimagined release in 2021, followed by an ’85 cut release early this year. Similar treatment is expected for other original colorways, including those currently seen only in sample form.

All sixteen Air Jordan 1 High ’85 samples are available to view in detail through recent photo galleries, although some colorways, such as “Metallic Blue”, “Metallic Green”, and “Neutral Grey”, appear only in the background.

For those interested in staying informed on upcoming releases, Jordan Brand’s official channels and dedicated sneaker release hubs remain the best resources.

Source: Sneaker News

In other news, take a look at the PSG x Nike Air Max DN8. Alternatively, you can also head to the SNKRDUNK App via the banner below and browse the latest and greatest in sneakers, streetwear, and TCG.

Follow us on:

• Facebook
• Instagram
• TikTok
• Pinterest
• Twitter