Union’s Air Jordan 1 ‘I’m Back’ Mashes Up Two Original Colorways and Invokes Michael Jordan’s Famous Fax
Those who’ve been following news of Union’s next Air Jordan 1 collaboration may feel a sense of whiplash. The highly anticipated sneaker was originally announced for a February release before reports indicated it would be pushed back until the summer. And now that it is February, leaks suggest the release is now very much on for this month.
The Union LA x Air Jordan 1 High “I’m Back” will cap off a massive month celebrating the model’s 40th anniversary. Much like the Los Angeles boutique’s first two AJ1s, the sneaker mashes up two of the sneaker’s original colorways. Most of the shoe is outfitted in the “Chicago” style, while the collar takes on the black and grey treatment of the “Shadow” edition. Blue contrast stitching highlight where the disparate colorways meet, as does two of the lace sets through their use of two colors.
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Also returning from Union’s 2018 Air Jordan 1s is the exposed foam tongue, faux-aged midsole and yellow “UN/LA” hangtag on the collar.
“I’m Back” references the fax Michael Jordan issued in 1995 with only those two words to announce the end of his retirement from the NBA. Union has a placeholder website using the phrase to tease the forthcoming release but hasn’t yet said much else on the matter.
Leaks, however, have shown official images for the shoe, as well as an accompanying collection. Friends and family of the brand have also already been given access to purchase.
The Union x Air Jordan 1 “I’m Back” will release February 28, likely through Union’s website before a Snkrs drop at a later date. Pricing is set at $200.
About the Author:
Ian Servantes is a Senior News Editor for Footwear News specializing in sneaker coverage. He’s previously reported on streetwear and sneakers at Input and Highsnobiety after beginning his career on the pop culture beat. He subscribes to the idea that “ball is life” and doesn’t fuss over his kicks getting dirty.
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