It’s said that Michael didn’t want to sign with Nike but favoured Adidas and also had an allegiance to the Converse. Also referred to as the ‘banned’ model – a story that Nike would later capitalize on via a clever marketing campaign – the sneaker debuted during the superstar’s rookie season in the league. The release of the Jordan 1 and particularly the ‘Bred’ colourway has been surrounded by myth and legend. A comparison of the original and a retro Bred (image via Complex) So before Jordan had even stepped onto the hardwood floor of Chicago Stadium, the wheels were already in motion for what would follow. Marketing Director Rob Strasser had been convinced that Jordan was worth signing at any cost and Donald Dell of Proserv (a sports management company) intended to market Michael in the same way that he had Stan Smith and Arthur Ashe. Chicago signed Jordan for a staggering $6 million in 1984 and while the Bulls were finalizing the contract details with the rookie, Oregon based Nike were already in negotiations of their own. Generally acknowledged as one of the greatest drafts in NBA history (with five hall of famers selected overall), it would be a significant step in sealing the fate of ‘His Airness’ and the unbeknownst at the time, the fate of street style for the next three decades. In 1984 a young Michael Jordan was the third pick in the first round of the NBA draft at Madison Square Garden, New York. And just why was the colourway ‘banned’ by the NBA? Jay-Z court side sporting Jordan 1 Breds. So we’re going to flip through the history books and rewind the clock to explain why this is something you need in your rotation. But to appreciate the relevance of the sneaker, it’s necessary to understand its context. True to Michael’s beginnings in the NBA and his beloved Bulls, the black and red colourway or ‘Bred’ as they’re colloquially known in the sneaker world, is the most iconic and instantly recognizable makeup of the Jordan 1. While the Union Jordan 1 or Travis Scott ‘backwards swoosh’ might be the most sought after amongst sneakerheads (and for good reason), it’s hard to beat the classics. Jordan wearing the Bred Jordan 1 with Patrick Ewing of the New York Knicks (image via Sole Collector)Ī quick Google search shows everyone from Jay Z to Justin Timberlake and David Beck to Lebron James wearing the sneaker, alongside a whole host of collaborations and limited editions too long list. It is this universal appeal, which is a direct result of the Jordan 1’s iconic profile that has defined the last three decades in sneaker culture. There are few other sneakers which are equally at home on the runways of Paris during Fashion Week and curtsied in Queens.

From streetwear to high fashion, the shape of the Jordan 1 is a mainstay, it has influenced and shaped countless imitations, with it silhouette being the foundations for any high top sneakers. Dressed up or dressed down, the Jordan 1 is a silhouette that appeals to all. Not just a sneaker for the street, to be worn ‘on the block’, or on the court, it belongs on everyone’s feet and in each man’s wardrobe. It deserves its place in the style hall of fame alongside the Converse Chuck Taylor, the Red Wing Moc Toe, or the Trickers Brogue. 35 years on and cemented as an icon of style, the Jordan 1 is a classic. The Jordan 1 is to the brand what the Big Mac is to McDonalds. While the debate rages on amongst sneakerheads as to which Jordan silhouette is the greatest, none have had more longevity and impact than the first. The iconic Jordan 1 Bred (image via Sole Collector) Defining the last three decades in sneaker culture

But the partnership which would launch Jordan Brand into the stratosphere didn’t begin until later in this storied tale. Off the court, the success of Jordan Brand wasn’t only down to the man himself his decades long partnership with innovative Nike designer Tinker Hatfield is a partnership that forms the foundations of what we recognize as iconic street style. The black and red colourway applied to sneakers and apparel is inseparable from the brand and inextricably linked Michael to the city he called home for many years. Even those who didn’t watch Michael play during his championship seasons in Chicago understand that the silhouette of a man soaring through the air with an outstretched arm and ball in hand, represents the best. Jordan Brand is as iconic as Nike itself and the Jump Man has become an internationally recognized symbol of sartorial street swagger. Undoubtedly, no athlete has left a greater impact on style. Arguably, no athlete has left a greater impact on the game than Michael.

New black and red jordans