Celebrating 40 Years of the Air Jordan 1: A Sneaker Icon's Legacy and Future

2025 marks a monumental year for sneaker culture — the 40th anniversary of the Air Jordan 1. Launched in 1985, this sneaker didn’t just change the game for basketball footwear; it revolutionized the entire sneaker industry. From Michael Jordan’s legendary debut to the rise of collaborations, the AJ1 remains one of the most recognizable, influential, and sought-after sneakers in the world.

A Sneaker That Defined a Culture

The Air Jordan 1 was a gamble in 1985. Nike was venturing into unknown territory, hoping to make a splash in the basketball market. Little did they know, they were crafting a cultural icon. Michael Jordan, the man whose name would become synonymous with greatness, wore the first-ever AJ1 on the court — despite NBA regulations against non-team colors. This rebellious move only amplified the AJ1’s status and set the tone for a sneaker that would become more than just a shoe; it would be a symbol of defiance, ambition, and unparalleled performance.

As Jordan’s career soared, so did the Jordan Brand. What started as a performance basketball shoe soon evolved into a lifestyle essential, influencing fashion, music, and art. Today, Jordan Brand is a multi-billion-dollar empire, and the AJ1 stands at the heart of its legacy.

Now, four decades later, the Air Jordan 1 is not only a piece of history, but it’s also poised to make an even bigger splash in 2025 with a range of new releases, collaborations, and remixes of classic styles. This year promises to be one of the most exciting yet for the AJ1, with 40th anniversary celebrations taking place across the sneaker world.

A Sneakerhead’s Dream: The Upcoming AJ1 Drops

With such a monumental anniversary, Jordan Brand isn’t holding back. Here are 20 anticipated Air Jordan 1 releases for 2025 — a mix of beloved classics, fresh takes, and exciting collaborations that’ll have sneakerheads on edge.

Collaborations: Where Classic Meets Creativity

1. Travis Scott x fragment design x Air Jordan 1 Low OG
   The power trio is back! Travis Scott’s flipped Swoosh, fragment design’s lightning bolt logo, and the unique color palette are ready to deliver yet another legendary AJ1 Low collab. With Cactus Jack’s signature touches and Hiroshi Fujiwara’s minimalist designs, this is a must-cop for any serious sneaker collector.

2. Union LA x Air Jordan 1 High OG
   Union LA’s 2018 AJ1 collaboration shook the sneaker world with its dual color blocking. Now, in 2025, the team is revisiting that magic, combining the "Chicago" base with a "Shadow" collar. Expect a high-energy mash-up that brings the best of both worlds.

3. Rui Hachimura x Air Jordan 1 Low OG "Cranes"
   The Los Angeles Lakers’ Rui Hachimura brings his cultural heritage to the AJ1 with a serene "Cranes" colorway. Inspired by his Japanese roots, this sneaker features soft oatmeal hues and elegant sakura and crane motifs.

4. Off-White™ x Air Jordan 1 High OG
   Virgil Abloh’s collaboration with Jordan Brand is legendary. Will 2025 see the return of Off-White™'s deconstructed AJ1? No details are confirmed, but expect a fresh, boundary-pushing design if the pair drops.

5. fragment design x Union LA x Air Jordan 1 High OG
   Two of the most celebrated sneaker collaborators — Union LA and fragment design — are rumored to combine forces. Details remain scarce, but given their track records, this release is bound to be a showstopper.

6. Swarovski x Air Jordan 1
   For a touch of luxury, Jordan Brand is rumored to team up with Swarovski, bringing their signature crystal embellishments to the AJ1. Two different iterations — one in high-top and one in low-top — are expected to shine with metallic and shimmering accents, making them some of the most high-end releases of the year.

7. Nigel Sylvester x Air Jordan 1 Low OG "Nitro"
   Nigel Sylvester is no stranger to the AJ1, and his next collaboration brings a fresh “Nitro” colorway to the AJ1 Low. Expect a bold mix of black, off-white, and red — a look that’s sure to turn heads.

Classics: The Return of Timeless Favorites

While collaborations bring fresh perspectives, the classics are what fans return to time and time again. For the 40th anniversary, Jordan Brand is revisiting some of the most beloved AJ1 colorways.

8. Air Jordan 1 High OG "Black Toe Reimagined"
   The “Black Toe” is a staple in the Jordan 1 lineup. This version reimagines the classic, adding nostalgic touches like the "My Very Best, Michael Jordan" script and vintage packaging.

9. Air Jordan 1 High ‘85 “Bred”
   A nod to the 1985 original, the “Bred” AJ1 is back in its true-to-form ‘85 shape, featuring the signature black and red colorway, reworked Swoosh, and smaller Wings branding.

10. Air Jordan 1 High ‘85 “Royal”
    If you prefer blue over red, the “Royal” colorway is also getting the ‘85 treatment. Expect premium materials, perfect craftsmanship, and that familiar black and royal blue combo that’s been a fan favorite for decades.

11. Air Jordan 1 High OG “UNC Reimagined”
    The “UNC” colorway is another beloved AJ1 design, and for its 40th birthday, Jordan Brand is giving it the “Reimagined” treatment. Vintage-inspired with a nod to the original, this is one that’s sure to sell out fast.

12. Air Jordan 1 High OG “Shattered Backboard”
    Since its release in 2015, the “Shattered Backboard” has been a grail for many. With high-quality leather and a unique orange, black, and white combo, the anniversary edition will bring this iconic colorway back for a 10th anniversary celebration.

Newcomers: Fresh Takes on a Timeless Icon

For the first time, Jordan Brand is releasing some brand-new takes on the Air Jordan 1, offering fresh designs and colorways for the next generation of sneakerheads.

13. Air Jordan 1 High OG "Rare Air" Pack
    The “Rare Air” pack features two AJ1 High OGs, each with a distinctive twist on the classic silhouette. Expect the unexpected with bold colors like Cinnabar and Deep Royal Blue.

14. Air Jordan 1 Low OG “Obsidian”
    A fan-favorite colorway from 2019, the “Obsidian” is being reworked into a low-top version for 2025. The navy, “University Blue,” and sail mix make this an exciting new addition to the AJ1 family.

15. Air Jordan 1 Low OG “Rookie of the Year”
    A new low-top take on the AJ1 from the 2018 release, this “Rookie of the Year” honors MJ’s NBA rookie season with golden brown nubuck and classic black-and-white color blocking.

16. Air Jordan 1 Low OG “Year of the Snake”
    Jordan Brand honors the Lunar New Year with a stunning AJ1 Low design that incorporates iridescent textures and snake-inspired motifs. The “OG” build elevates the silhouette with intricate detailing.

17. Air Jordan 1 High ‘85 "Reverse Shadow"
    Reimagining the classic “Shadow” colorway, this “Reverse Shadow” AJ1 combines black and gray overlays with a fresh twist on a fan-favorite design.

18. Air Jordan 1 High OG “Black/Summit White”
    A new addition to the high-top lineup, this rumored “Black/Summit White” version promises a sleek black-and-white design that maintains the AJ1’s signature style while adding a modern flair.

19. Air Jordan 1 Low OG “Phantom”
    Last but certainly not least, the “Phantom” AJ1 Low takes inspiration from retro styles, with oversized Swooshes and a neutral color palette perfect for everyday wear.

The Future of the Air Jordan 1

As we celebrate 40 years of the Air Jordan 1, it’s clear that this sneaker has become more than just footwear. It’s a cultural artifact, a piece of history, and a beacon of creativity. The AJ1’s legacy continues to inspire designers, athletes, and fans worldwide, and with these exciting releases on the horizon, it’s clear the Air Jordan 1 isn’t slowing down anytime soon.

Whether you’re a die-hard collector, a casual sneaker fan, or someone looking to add a piece of history to your wardrobe, 2025 promises to be a year to remember for the Air Jordan 1. So, keep an eye on your favorite sneaker spots — these releases won’t stay on shelves for long!