Since its debut in 1985, the Air Jordan 1 has become one of the most iconic sneakers in the world, beloved by sneakerheads and athletes alike. Over the years, the AJ1 has gone through various iterations and colorways, making it a staple in every sneaker collection. However, the sneaker community often debates which is the better version – the original Air Jordan 1 OG or the retro releases. Let's break down the differences and see who comes out on top.
The Air Jordan 1 OG, also known as the '85s, were the first-ever pair of Jordans to hit the market. Designed by Peter Moore, they were the perfect blend of style and performance. The OGs feature a high-top silhouette, a signature ankle strap, and the iconic swoosh logo. The most notable difference between the OGs and the retros is the construction. The OGs were made with genuine leather, making them sturdier and more durable. The quality of the materials used was evident, making them a highly coveted pair among sneakerheads today.
On the other hand, the retro version of the Air Jordan 1 was released much later, in 2001, and has been released in various colorways since then. The retros feature the same design and silhouette as the OGs, but with a few noticeable differences. Firstly, the materials used for the retro versions are synthetic leather, which may not be as durable as the OGs. However, this also makes them more affordable and more accessible to the masses. Another difference is the color saturation; the retros are known to have more vibrant and eye-catching color combinations.
So, which one should you choose – the OGs or the retros? It ultimately comes down to personal preference and what you're looking for in a sneaker. If you're a collector and want a piece of sneaker history, the OGs might be the way to go. On the other hand, if you're after more color options and don't mind sacrificing a bit of quality, the retros might be the better choice. Both versions also have their own pros and cons in terms of comfort, with the OGs being stiffer at first, but eventually breaking in, and the retros having a more comfortable fit right out of the box.
In conclusion, whether you prefer the OGs or the retros, there's no denying the impact the Air Jordan 1 has had on sneaker culture. Both versions have their own unique features and have solidified their place in the sneaker world. So, which one will you choose in the battle of the Air Jordan 1 – OG or retro?