The release of Air Jordan sneakers revolutionized the world of casual kicks. A shoe released 40 years ago has become a global icon for sneakerheads around the globe. The official home of Jordan has released a new animated video of the history of Air Jordan 1 on its YouTube channel. Fans took to the comment section and reflected on the sneaker's popularity through the years.
A user (@DoctorAlright) noted how the release of Jordans has impacted the launch of other shoes over the years, writing:
"Imagine if Jordans never got this Massive. It would change the shoe scene in Crazy ways. Kanye West probably wouldn’t have been inspired to release Yeezys."
Another user (@FolFedda) commented about Michael Jordan's initial interest in working with Adidas and not Nike for brand endorsements:
"MJ chose Adidas first. Adidas didn't want him because the league loved big men back then. Adidas GOTTA regret that decision TO THIS DAY."
A user (@AaronLacasse-z2f) wrote this about the iconic collaboration between the then-rookie Michael Jordan and Nike:
"How did this sneaker spread around? Almost like we have a contract with one of the most iconic basketball players to put his name on them!"
A user (@Auudubillahi) responded to the comment and wrote,
"That's the thing..he was not iconic and a rookie when Nike took a chance On him versus more established players. And Jordan took a chance on them for less money."
Many users dropped positive reactions to the video, and one comment read:
"If you did not watch this add your missing out."
Air Jordan 1 sneakers marks its 40th anniversary
The story of Air Jordan 1 sneakers is one of a kind and its launch in 1985 became pivotal for sneakerheads. Since then, the brand has released new designs every year. However, Michael Jordan's iconic black and red sneakers continue to make waves till date.
In an official statement by Jordan, the brand celebrates the 40th anniversary of a "humble sneaker" that became a "global icon". The statement read:
“As we head into the new year, Jordan Brand is giving fans of the brand an opportunity to travel back in time to where it all began."
They added:
"2025 marks 40 years of Air Jordan and as the brand prepares to celebrate the impact MJ has made on the game, we are unveiling the Origin Story – an animated film detailing the reach and influence of the AJ1.”
Fans can also understand the full story of the origin by watching Air, a movie released in 2023.
A risk taken by Nike in the 1980s changed its trajectory and the rest is history. Jordans continue to be among the most sought-after shoes by sneakerheads. Fans and customers can also expect to see a massive Jordans drop in 2025.