Across the eight Jordan Design Studios, the Air Jordan 1 was reimagined through a personal lens. With the guidance of a Creative Mentor, the invited creatives explored themes of identity, community, heritage, ambition and local culture, transforming those stories into original design concepts. The result is a collection of designs that reflect individual creativity and the power of collective greatness. Each story and design was personal and progressive, with eight emerging as the city-winning designs and an opportunity for one to shape the future of Air Jordan 1.
Beijing
Beijing
Syn delivers a rebellious design structure with a relaxed silhouette more akin to a ruched boot. Loose hand-stitching, and raw edges with the softer, ruffled materials create an unapologetic take on the icon.
Chicago
Chicago
Inspired by the city that raised her, Chelsea’s design melds her love for crochet art with details from her creative journey growing up in Chicago. The light blue of Chicago’s city flag lays the foundation alongside Chelsea’s signature crochetwork. Personal references to her family home, dedication to working with a nontraditional medium, and the city’s transit system tell a story of determination shaped by community.
“To be able to design the Air Jordan 1? This is a dream.”
– Chelsea B
Los Angeles
Los Angeles
Cheikh’s take on the traditional AJ1 design uses personalized color blocking, and contrast stitching while transforming the upper with a removable bag design referencing his roots. Further details like a reimagined U.S. flag in the colors of the Senegalese flag symbolize his family’s journey as immigrants.
“My younger self would be hella proud… I couldn’t afford to buy Jordans and to be in this room with the opportunity to create an Air Jordan 1, it means the world.”
– Cheikh Tall
Mexico City
Mexico City
Drawing inspiration from hiking, hockey, and military boots, Calo’s design exaggerates and accentuates the AJ1 for a larger more voluminous look. A removable shroud, inspired by the AJ16, gives the shoe a minimalist and tactical aesthetic.
“For me, being part of Jordan Design Studio was the result of years of hard, painstaking work and the beginning of something I had been seeking for all those years.”
– Carlos “Calo” Eduardo Lopez Velasco
New York
New York
Inspired by her Jamaican roots and stories from her mother’s musical background, Alaia’s design is deeply personal. From the specific blocking and stitching, each color tells a deeper story. The insole and tongue highlight personal details that tie back to the influence and importance of the music and culture she grew up with.
“I want to tell my authentic story and what better way than to do it through Jordan?”
– Alaia Ryan
Seoul
Seoul
Inspired by the uninhibited, imperfect way he created as a child, Jisoon’s AJ1 design takes a deconstructive approach. Panels are placed as if they were simply glued on – raw, rough, and loosely attached, with frayed edges and an intentionally imperfect finish. Every medial element is relocated to one exterior surface, turning overlooked details into the shoe’s primary visual identity.
“It was an honor to have my story become connected to Jordan’s heritage, and I hope my work can remain as a small part of Jordan’s history.”
– Jisoon Kim
Shanghai
Shanghai
GG’s design draws on the peaceful connection to nature, found in fishing culture, and his own fashion sense for an unexpected combination. Weathered materials, hand-stitching, and distress marks give the trace of long-term use where every blemish tells a story.
“Over three days, I explored the AJ1 from a fashion designer’s perspective. What inspired me most was seeing eight creators interpret the same challenge in eight unique ways.”
– GG Wu
Tokyo
Tokyo
Inspired by an obsession with materials and sensory design, Yuji’s concept draws on his appreciation for luxury and minimalist aesthetics. Soft black leather and perforated treatment explore themes of adding and subtracting elements of the design. The sleek silhouette expresses a new aesthetic for the AJ1.
“Through this experience, I was reminded of the importance of trusting my own instincts, and it gave me greater confidence in my creative vision and future work.”
– Yuji Wada
Love Letter Collection
GAME RECOGNIZE GAME
Take your look beyond the court with the latest collection inspired by the love of the game.
Love Letter Collection
GAME RECOGNIZE GAME
Take your look beyond the court with the latest collection inspired by the love of the game.