For the past few years, A Ma Maniére and Nike have fostered captivating collaborations, drawing sneaker enthusiasts in with their unique designs and meaningful narratives. Their 2019 “Hand Wash Cold” collection was no different, serving as potent symbolism to treat cherished possessions (and people) with due reverence. This partnership brought to life new iterations of the Air Force 1 High and Low, using plush materials and incorporating carefully chosen detailing. Still, it appears there was a hidden gem that didn’t get a chance to grace the feet of loving fans- the A Ma Maniére x Air Jordan 1 “Hand Wash Cold” sample.
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Thanks to the founder of Archive AZ, Wilson Neloy, we now have the pleasure of an in-hand look at the unreleased sample. While there isn’t certainty whether the sample was initially intended to be a part of A Ma Maniére’s 2019 collection or an early concept of their collaboration with Jordan Brand in 2021, it’s evident the sample shares a visual kinship with both collections. It also boasts similarities to the A Ma Maniere x Jordan Air Ship SP “Summit White/Black”.
The sneaker showcases a chic black and white colour scheme, reminiscent of the Jordan Air Ship model that debuted in 2023. It exhibits a sleek white leather base, artificially aged midsoles and black outsoles, lending the shoe a timeless aesthetic similar to the 2023 release. However, contrary to the black nubuck highlights gracing the collar and Swoosh of the Air Ship, the sample displays textured black leather accents in these regions instead.
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Now, if you think back to the A Ma Maniére AJ 1 from 2021, you might recall the reptilian texture finish in Burgundy Crush that adorned the collars and Swooshes. Interestingly, the sample shares this trait, but the snakeskin detailing isn’t as sparse on this design. And much like the A Ma Maniére Air Jordan 1 that was released to the public, the collar flaps are notably left unstitched from the upper. The two sneakers further share a quilted satin lining on the collar.
Then, as a noteworthy feature that tie it to the “Hand Wash Cold” theme, distinct cleaning and care instructions are printed onto the heel. It’s akin to the friends and family version, where similar instructions were featured on the heel tab. The addition of this unique element seems like a clear indication that the sneakers were meant to be a part of this collection or at least a follow-up of some sort.
Another detail catching the eye is the unfinished wings insignia embroidered onto the lateral collar flap. Looking at the emblem you can see the notable absence of its Air Jordan wording across the banner that sits above the ball and wings. The design also showcases a distinguished “Maniére” logo stitched onto the sneaker’s heel and black laces to tie the design together.
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To sum it up, this exclusive sample represents a triumphant melange of three stellar collaboration designs. It embraces the Air Ship A Ma Maniére’s colour scheme, the “Burgundy Crush” snakeskin texture, and boasts unique cleaning and care instructions that tie it to the “Hand Wash Cold” theme. While this exclusive combination may never hit the shelves, we can confidently assert that if it did, it would have flown off just as swiftly as any other collaboration between these two powerhouses.
