The Iconic Air Jordan 1 Retro High OG “Chicago”: A Cultural Phenomenon
The Air Jordan 1 Retro High OG “Chicago” sneaker embodies something much bigger than a sneaker – a cultural icon, sporting heritage, and streetwear fashion classic. Its nonavailability since its first release in 1985 guaranteed that the “Chicago” model would never lose its legendary status within the Jordan Brand lineup and turn into one of the most sought-after and iconic models. Hark back to the original shoe marked by returning energy, memories, and style, and now it’s etched in history books with a pen and ink under sneaker culture. Here, in this piece, we have delved into its history, design, cultural impact, and reasons why the Air Jordan 1 Retro High OG “Chicago” stands the test of time.
A Brief History of the Air Jordan 1 “Chicago”
It is the fruit of collaboration between the NBA’s basketball idol Michael Jordan and Nike. Just out of college and at the beginning of his professional basketball career, Jordan was approached by Nike to collaborate with them on a new signature shoe that would reap the revolutionizing of the basketball sneaker market. Although other brands like Adidas and Converse were following Jordan, it was Nike’s vision and willingness to design an exclusive shoe for him that eventually convinced Jordan.
Peter Moore’s design for Air Jordan 1 was first released in 1985, in the three colors: “Bred,” “Black Toe,” and “Chicago.” Of course, these all came to represent icons for their time, but the “Chicago” colorway, with its old school white, black and red color scheme, earned an enormous following almost as soon as it hit the shelves. The color scheme indeed symbolizes Jordan’s time with the Chicago Bulls and reminds of the gameness of Chicago’s sports culture. Early on, however, Jordan wore a prototype of the “Bred” colorway banned by the NBA for uniform policy violations, but it soon enough began wearing the “Chicago” colorway that so many fans fell in love with.
Design Elements that Define the Air Jordan 1 “Chicago”
The design of the Air Jordan 1 “Chicago” is classic. Moore’s design for the Jordan 1 went against any other basketball shoe being designed within the market. Its high silhouette and bold color-blocking scheme gave it a definite recognition factor. The silhouette of the upper is a combination of different leather materials which makes it both long-lasting and fashionable. The “Chicago” colorway features a main white leather base, with lively red overlays spread throughout the toe box, heel, and ankle, and black on the Swoosh and Nike collar. The midsole is white, but the entire outsole is presented in the same red color, thereby completing the look.
But one of the more iconic and lasting features of the Air Jordan 1 is the Wings logo stamped on the ankle that reads “Air Jordan.” The stamp has become a sort of trademark on every Jordan sneaker to date. The fact that the tongue sported the Nike Air branding was one of those must design elements linking the Jordan Brand to Nike, which it would eventually separate and evolve into its own independent entity.
Time has seen a lot of development from this shoe line, changes are minimal to honor the original but updated with modern sneaker technology. However, “OG” in the name ensures that these retro releases are as close to the original 1985 design as possible, even with the high-top cut and icon detailing.
Cultural Impact: How the Air Jordan 1 “Chicago” Redefined Sneakers
When Michael Jordan first stepped onto the court wearing the Air Jordan 1, it sparked a revolution. The NBA’s decision to fine Jordan for not adhering to its uniform policies added to the mystique of the shoe. This “rebellion” narrative helped establish the Air Jordan 1 as a shoe for those looking to stand out and break the mold. Suddenly, sneakers were no longer just for athletic purposes—they became a way for people to express their individuality and cultural affiliations.
The “Chicago” colorway, in particular, resonated with fans who identified with the city of Chicago, where Jordan achieved legendary status. Beyond sports, the shoe has been embraced by hip-hop culture, fashion enthusiasts, and streetwear aficionados worldwide. The sneaker became a staple in hip-hop, with icons like Run DMC, Jay-Z, and Kanye West incorporating the Jordan 1 into their personal style. This cultural crossover into music and fashion solidified the sneaker’s place in popular culture.
Resurgence of the Air Jordan 1 Retro High OG “Chicago”
Though the original release in 1985 was followed by sporadic retro versions, the Air Jordan 1 “Chicago” saw a resurgence in popularity with its retro re-releases. In 1994, Nike first re-released the Jordan 1 “Chicago,” sparking nostalgia among fans who had missed out on the original. The 2013 re-release brought back the classic look but with modern construction, drawing both older fans and a new generation of sneaker enthusiasts.
In 2015, to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the Air Jordan 1, Nike released the Air Jordan 1 Retro High OG “Chicago” with the original high-cut design, “Nike Air” branding on the tongue, and high-quality leather. This release captured the essence of the original, offering a sense of authenticity that sneakerheads and collectors crave. Since then, the 2015 release has become one of the most valuable and desired Air Jordan 1s on the resale market, with prices reaching up to thousands of dollars depending on condition and size.
The Influence of the “Chicago” Colorway on Fashion and Streetwear
The simplicity and versatility of the “Chicago” colorway have made it a popular choice for both high-fashion designers and streetwear brands. The red, white, and black palette works well with a variety of outfits, from casual jeans and t-shirts to high-end streetwear ensembles. High-profile fashion icons like Virgil Abloh and Travis Scott have paid homage to the Air Jordan 1, with Abloh even creating a limited edition “Off-White” version of the sneaker, sparking an entirely new wave of hype.
Furthermore, the Air Jordan 1 has inspired countless collaborations and colorways that pay tribute to the “Chicago” design. Brands like Dior, Supreme, and even artists like KAWS have drawn inspiration from the iconic sneaker, blending elements of the Air Jordan 1 into their own collections. In this way, the “Chicago” has transcended its roots as a basketball sneaker to become a coveted piece of fashion history.
The Modern-Day Hype and Resale Value
The sneaker industry has witnessed a shift towards limited releases, exclusivity, and intense demand, with the Air Jordan 1 “Chicago” often sitting at the center of this hype. The 2015 retro release, in particular, quickly sold out, causing an immediate spike in resale prices. With platforms like StockX and GOAT, the secondary market for sneakers has grown, giving fans access to the shoes they covet, albeit at a premium. The “Chicago” colorway is frequently listed among the most valuable Jordan 1s on these platforms, with resale prices often surpassing the original retail price by several times.
Beyond its monetary value, the hype surrounding the Air Jordan 1 “Chicago” is rooted in its history and cultural relevance. Each release and re-release carries a piece of that legacy, prompting even non-sneakerheads to recognize the sneaker as a cultural artifact. Owning a pair of Air Jordan 1 “Chicago” shoes is like owning a piece of sports history, a symbol of rebellion, and a fashion statement rolled into one.
Why the Air Jordan 1 Retro High OG “Chicago” Remains Timeless
The Air Jordan 1 Retro High OG “Chicago” continues to be in the news because of its style, historical value, and culture. Few shoes carry so much weight in both worlds. For basketball enthusiasts, the “Chicago” colorway is a representation of Michael Jordan’s legacy as well as the birth of a new era in sporting sponsorships. For the fashionable enthusiast, it is a piece of clothing that swims through trends very nicely and, at the same time, fine with either modern or vintage attire.
What works for the “Chicago” is that it captures the full spirit of the 1980s while still relevant today. While streetwear reigns supreme in the fashion landscape, the Air Jordan 1 is always at the forefront, and one of its crown jewels is undoubtedly the “Chicago” colorway. Whether one sports them for athleticism, fashion, or simply nostalgia, the Air Jordan 1 Retro High OG “Chicago” appears to be doing a fine job against such evolution.
Conclusion: The Legacy of the Air Jordan 1 “Chicago”
From the hardwood floors of the NBA to the concrete streets of major cities, the Air Jordan 1 Retro High OG “Chicago” has solidified its place as more than just a sneaker. It represents a cultural milestone, a fusion of sport and style, and a symbol of individuality. While trends come and go, the Air Jordan 1 “Chicago” has remained iconic for nearly four decades, a feat that few other sneakers can claim. As the Jordan Brand continues to release new iterations and retro versions, one thing is certain: the Air Jordan 1 “Chicago” will continue to be cherished, celebrated, and worn by generations to come.