The Nike Air Jordan 1 High “Bred Banned” is one of the most iconic and sought-after colorways in the Air Jordan 1 lineup. Released as part of Nike’s special “Banned” series, this sneaker is directly tied to the history and legend of Michael Jordan and the NBA’s strict uniform policy in the 1980s. The “Bred” (short for “black and red”) colorway is synonymous with MJ’s rebellious spirit and his defiance of the league’s regulations, making this sneaker a symbol of both his on-court dominance and sneaker culture history.
Key Features:
1. Upper Construction:
- Black and Red Leather Upper: The Bred Banned Jordan 1 features a classic black leather base with red overlays on the toe box, heel, and collar, creating the iconic “Bred” color scheme. The bold combination of black and red has become one of the most recognized and celebrated colorways in sneaker history.
- Premium Leather: The upper is crafted with premium smooth leather, giving the sneaker a luxurious feel and making it durable for everyday wear. The leather construction also provides a clean, classic look that stays true to the original Air Jordan 1 design.
- Banned Logo: One of the standout features of this sneaker is the “Banned” branding, which pays tribute to the NBA’s ban on Jordan wearing the original red and black colorway during games in the 1984-85 season. As the story goes, Jordan was fined $5,000 per game for wearing the colorway because it violated the NBA’s uniform code. This event is often seen as a pivotal moment in both sneaker history and the rise of Michael Jordan’s rebellious persona.
- Swoosh: The black Swoosh is embroidered on the side of the shoe, matching the overall aesthetic and providing a sharp contrast against the red and black base.
2. Midsole and Cushioning:
- Nike Air Cushioning: The Bred Banned Jordan 1 retains the classic Nike Air cushioning in the midsole, offering responsive comfort and support for both casual wear and light athletic use.
- White Midsole: The white foam midsole contrasts with the bold black and red upper, providing a sharp and clean look that has become a signature of the Air Jordan 1. This midsole also enhances comfort, making the shoe wearable for longer periods.
- Air Sole Unit: As part of the original Air Jordan 1 design, the Air Sole unit in the heel offers extra cushioning for added comfort and impact protection.
3. Outsole Construction:
- Iconic Jordan 1 Outsole: The outsole of the Bred Banned Jordan 1 features the iconic Air Jordan 1 traction pattern, a set of concentric circles and grooves that provide excellent grip and traction on various surfaces.
- Red Rubber Outsole: The outsole is made of red rubber, which complements the bold red and black colorway of the upper. This red outsole adds to the sneaker’s aggressive, rebellious aesthetic and ties into the Bred theme.
4. Fit and Comfort:
- True to Size Fit: The Jordan 1 High generally runs true to size, offering a snug, secure fit that works for most foot shapes.
- Padded Collar and Tongue: The padded collar and tongue provide extra cushioning around the ankle for comfort and support, making it comfortable for extended wear.
- Breathability: The perforated toe box allows for better airflow, enhancing breathability and ensuring the feet stay cool during wear.
5. Design and Aesthetic:
- Iconic Bred Colorway: The black and red color combination is one of the most iconic in sneaker culture, with the Bred Banned version of the Jordan 1 carrying that same legacy. The black and red combo represents the rebellion and boldness of Michael Jordan’s journey to greatness, as well as his defiance of the NBA’s restrictions.
- Classic High-Top Silhouette: The high-top design of the Air Jordan 1 is timeless, offering a retro aesthetic that remains relevant today. The high-top cut not only provides additional ankle support but also contributes to the bold, streetwear-friendly look.
- Wings Logo: As with most Air Jordan 1 High models, the Air Jordan Wings logo is embossed on the ankle collar. This iconic emblem is a hallmark of the Jordan brand and further solidifies the “Bred” model’s connection to Michael Jordan’s legacy.
- Swoosh Branding: The black Swoosh on the side of the sneaker is another key feature, staying true to the original design of the Air Jordan 1.
6. Why It Stands Out:
- The “Banned” Story: The Air Jordan 1 Bred is famous not only for its bold look but also because of the legendary “Banned” story behind it. The NBA’s decision to fine Michael Jordan for wearing the red and black colorway added to the mythos surrounding Jordan’s career and helped establish the Jordan Brand’s rebellious spirit.
- Timeless Colorway: The Bred colorway is one of the most beloved and enduring in sneaker culture, making it a must-have for sneakerheads, collectors, and Jordan fans alike. The black and red combination has a streetwise appeal that transcends time and trends.
- Collectibility: The Bred Banned Jordan 1 is part of Jordan Brand’s broader effort to honor its history. As a highly limited release, it has become a coveted collector’s item, sought after for both its design and its connection to Jordan’s early career.
- Versatile and Wearable: Despite being a bold colorway, the Bred Banned Jordan 1 is incredibly versatile. It can be styled with nearly any casual outfit, from jeans and a t-shirt to more sporty streetwear looks. Its timeless design allows it to remain relevant and wearable through the years.
7. Additional Features:
- Wings Logo: The classic Air Jordan Wings logo is debossed on the collar, representing Jordan’s evolution into a global basketball icon.
- Classic Swoosh: The black leather Swoosh remains a central design feature, serving as a subtle yet significant branding element on the lateral side of the shoe.
- Banned/Not Allowed Packaging: When the Bred Banned Jordan 1 was released, it came in special packaging that reflected its rebellious nature. This packaging included a red and black box, adding to the narrative of defiance and rebellion.
Summary:
The Nike Air Jordan 1 High “Bred Banned” is a legendary sneaker that pays homage to the rebellious history of Michael Jordan and his iconic “Banned” moment in NBA history. The bold black and red colorway represents both Jordan’s defiance against the league’s uniform policy and his evolution into a basketball icon. With premium leather construction, the Air Jordan 1’s signature Air cushioning, and classic high-top silhouette, this model combines iconic design with high-level comfort.
The Bred Banned colorway has become synonymous with Jordan’s legacy, making it an essential piece for any sneaker collection. The combination of premium materials, retro styling, and historic significance makes this sneaker a timeless icon in both the sneaker world and sports culture. Whether you’re a long-time Jordan fan or a sneakerhead looking for an iconic piece of history, the Air Jordan 1 High “Bred Banned” stands as one of the most celebrated and beloved sneakers of all time.
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