Union's upcoming Air Jordan 1 collaboration represents the culmination of a lengthy research and development period which required multiple attempts at nailing down the sneaker's vintage-inspired look.
With an emphasis on details, the collaboration plays into Union owner Chris Gibbs's fascination with vintage footwear and apparel. Inspired by the concept of hacking up several vintage pairs of Jordan 1s to repair an OG, the range includes two mash-up colorways mixing the shoe's original "Black Toe" and "Natural Grey" make ups on one pair and combining the "Storm Blue" and "Bred" on another.
According to a new behind-the-scenes breakdown from Jordan Brand, the design process required nine attempts to successfully re-create the fuzzy weathered heel and collar of an original 1985 Air Jordan 1. Beyond that, the Union collab also includes unique details such as thicker leather, nubuck Swooshes, exposed foam, zig-zag stitching, and a pre-yellowed midsole.
Take a closer look at comparisons between original Jordan 1s and Union's collab below and watch for the Union x Air Jordan 1 to release alongside similarly vintage-themed apparel on Saturday, Nov. 17. The "Natural Grey"-inspired colorway drops from select retailers globally, while the "Storm Blue" variation is exclusive to Union.
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