Released: 1985
The Air Jordan 1 debuted in 1985, designed by Peter Moore. It disrupted NBA norms with its bold “Black/Red” colorway, famously banned by the league — a controversy Nike used in ads to generate massive hype. Jordan wore the AJ1 during his rookie season (1984–85), where he won Rookie of the Year, dropped 63 points against the Celtics in the playoffs, and helped launch modern sneaker culture.
Design Elements
- High-top leather construction
- Wings logo on the ankle
- Original colorways included Bred, Chicago, and Royal
- No visible Air unit
Key Moments
- 63-point playoff game vs. Boston (April 20, 1986)
- Worn throughout 1984–85 season
- Worn briefly again in 1998 for his final game at Madison Square Garden with the Bulls
Cultural Impact
The AJ1’s ban and subsequent commercial success made it an icon of rebellion and self-expression. It was re-released in countless retros and collaborations, becoming a must-have for collectors, skaters, and fashion circles alike.
Legacy
The AJ1 kicked off the most legendary signature sneaker line in history. It remains a best-seller decades later, fueling resell markets and inspiring everything from Dior collabs to Travis Scott editions.