AJ1

The Air Jordan 1, commonly abbreviated as AJ1, is a basketball shoe produced by Nike for Michael Jordan. It was released in 1985 as the first signature sneaker in the Air Jordan line, with design by Peter Moore. The model helped launch the broader Jordan Brand and played a key role in bridging performance footwear and sneaker culture.

The AJ1 features a high-top silhouette with a leather upper, a Nike Swoosh on the sides, and a Wings logo on the collar. It incorporates Nike Air cushioning in the sole, and the original releases emphasized bold color blocking that often did not match team uniforms. The design and colorways emphasized style as well as performance, contributing to its lasting appeal beyond the court.

During its early years, the Air Jordan 1 became famous for the controversy surrounding Michael Jordan’s use of a non-approved colorway by the NBA, including the Black/Red “Bred” scheme. Although the league imposed fines, Nike marketed the sneakers aggressively, helping to popularize the idea of athlete endorsement and sneaker culture separate from official uniforms. The controversy also underscored the shoe’s rebellious image, which aided its enduring legacy.

Over the years, the Air Jordan 1 has been reissued in hundreds of colorways and materials, including leather, suede, and patent finishes, with numerous collaborations and special editions. It remains one of the most recognizable and influential sneakers in athletic and fashion contexts, widely referenced in design, pop culture, and sneaker collecting.