Retro Air Jordans have been re-releasing every couple of years, and it practically feels like the same sneaker over and over again. While we’re generally fine with the same colorway releasing every few years, this would sound like Jordan Brand being a bit lazy with thinking of new ideas for retro releases. That being said, the brand is set to go for a reimagined approach–one that goes beyond the current OG version used in some retros–starting with the Air Jordan 1 High Chicago.
For this upcoming version of a colorway that has re-released countless times in different iterations–high, low, mid, OG, you name it, the “reimagined” approach appears to be more about giving the Air Jordan 1 an aged, worn-in look. What used to be a natural process (and one that some sneaker customizers actually do) is going to be mainstream.
In the photos that have surfaced so far, the reimagined Air Jordan 1 High OG Chicago has cracked leather on the ankle collar area–as a reference to parts of the sneaker that degrades due to age. The laces and the tongue have an off-white (specifically muslin) color to give them that aged look, while the outsoles have white stains to represent the oxidation that happens with Air Jordan 1s that are over a decade old (don’t worry, these are completely wearable).
The vintage look does look nice and goes well with the trend for dirty sneakers that are popularized by luxury brands like Golden Goose. The 2022 Air Jordan 1 High “Chicago” in its vintage look is set to drop on October 29 for $180(~Php 9.6k), which is a hefty premium over most Air Jordan 1 highs that usually retail anywhere between Php 8 to 9k.
My take on this? As long as the quality is good, I’m down for this approach. The only question is if these will be a limited run or if Jordan brand will make a large production of these sneakers.
