Update: April 29, 2021 at 10:15 a.m. ET
An original Air Jordan 1 style is making its return to sneaker stores next month.
After reports began to circulate in December that the classic Air Jordan 1 KO “Chicago” is releasing again this year, Jordan Brand has confirmed that the shoe is returning in mid-May. The Jordan 1 KO debuted in the mid-1980s as part of Michael Jordan‘s signature line alongside the iconic Air Jordan 1 but was designed for lifestyle purposes instead of being used on the basketball court.
The “Chicago” iteration of the shoe references MJ’s heyday playing for the Chicago Bulls as seen with the black and white color scheme and bold varsity red accents featured on the shoe. Unlike the Jordan 1, this KO variation of the silhouette boasts a canvas-based upper that’s combined with leather trims for all-day comfort. Additional details include AJKO branding on the ankle collar, a sail midsole, and a red rubber outsole.
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The forthcoming Air Jordan 1 KO “Chicago” also isn’t the only iteration of the Jordan 1 to release this year. Trophy Room, the sneaker store that’s owned and operated by NBA legend Michael Jordan’s youngest son, Marcus, reimagined the Jordan 1 “Chicago” colorway when it released its own Trophy Room x Air Jordan 1 High “Freeze Out” collab in February. The collab wore the traditional white, black, and varsity red color scheme but the look is elevated with a glimmer effect on the leather upper along with a translucent outsole.
The Air Jordan 1 KO “Chicago” will be released on May 12 via SNKRS and at select Jordan Brand retailers for $140.
To Buy: Air Jordan 1 KO “Chicago,” $140; SNKRS app (May 12)
The classic Air Jordan 1 KO appears to be returning to stores in 2021.
Sneaker leak Instagram account @py_rates posted retail images of the upcoming Air Jordan 1 KO “Chicago” on Instagram today, which is an original shoe from Michael Jordan’s signature line that debuted in the mid-1980s alongside its iconic Air Jordan 1 counterpart before it released again as a retro in 2010. The account also revealed that the shoe is expected to release sometime in 2021 for a retail price of $140, but a specific reported launch date was not shared.
The shoe wears the popular “Chicago” color scheme inspired by the Chicago Bulls’ team hues but unlike the version that MJ wore on the court, this pair features a canvas construction on the upper in replacement of the premium leather. The side panels come to white while the overlays at the forefoot and eyelets sport a bright red color. Adding to the design is a black Swoosh branding on the sides with matching shoelaces, “Nike Air” branding on the tongue, and the AJKO wings logo stamped on the ankle collars. The look is completed with a sail midsole and a red outsole.
Although the info was shared on Instagram, Jordan Brand has yet to confirm that the Air Jordan 1 KO “Chicago” is releasing in 2021.
For fans who aren’t interested in waiting until next year to buy a pair, you can buy the Air Jordan 1 KO “Chicago” from the 2010 release now on the secondary market.
StockX has pairs listed for as low as $300 for a men’s size 8 at the time of publication, and upward of $843 for a men’s size 12. The exact shoe is also available on GOAT with the lowest ask for a pair is $350 for a men’s size 11 and as high as $1,995 for a men’s size 9.
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