Among the countless colourways in the Jordan Brand catalogue, a select few have ascended to legendary status. One such timeless combination is the white and blue, which harks back to Michael Jordan’s celebrated college days at the University of North Carolina. The Air Jordan 1 High ’85 “Tar Heels,” masterfully crafted by the talented Jordon Diab, honours the enduring legacy of this popular scheme with a rejuvenated design that proudly features the iconic UNC branding.
A Closer Look At The Sneaker
As Jordan Brand gears up to reintroduce the Air Jordan 1 High “UNC” for its 40th anniversary next year, it’s an opportune moment to spotlight the “Tar Heels” colourway—a nod to Michael Jordan’s college days. This particular pair cleverly merges the high-top design of the original Air Jordan 1 “UNC” with the distinctive look of the Air Jordan 1 Low OG PE, a model crafted exclusively for UNC student-athletes in 2023. It features all the standout elements that made last year’s football PEs a massive hit.
For starters, you’ll notice the sneaker’s base is crafted from smooth white calfskin, perfectly paired with tumbled off-white leather around the collars. Adding to the charm, the overlays feature the iconic “Carolina Blue” in a luxurious suede, and this same hue adorns the quilted satin inner lining.
Complementing this, you have navy blue accents visible on the miniature Swooshes at the toe and the caviar-embossed leather side Swooshes. And for a truly distinctive touch, the tongues are embroidered in “Carolina Blue” thread, with the North Carolina Tar Heels logo proudly displayed on the left shoe.
The beautifully crafted uppers rest on a sail midsole complemented by a gum rubber outsole, providing a charming vintage feel. All in all, it’s an exquisite rendition of a classic colourway, bound to be a coveted piece for many sneaker enthusiasts.
Is The Air Jordan 1 High ’85 “Tar Heels” Available For Purchase?
Unfortunately, as with all of Jordon Diab’s custom pairs, this stunning “Tar Heels” design is not for sale and won’t be reproduced. However, the exciting news is that you can commission your very own bespoke design from the talented sneaker artist. Imagine having a design tailored to your preferred theme or colour scheme. Just reach out to Jordon via his Instagram or email him at info@jordondiab.com to create something unique for you.
In the meantime, you might want to check out other creative twists on the “UNC” theme, including a satin-draped version by John Trottier, Jordan Brand’s upcoming reimagined creation, and even a Jordan Spizike Low featuring the signature white and blue hues. And for more imaginative and stylish reinventions of classic colourways, make sure to stay tuned to Sneaker Fortress.
What do you think of these Air Jordan 1 High ’85 “Tar Heels” custom kicks? Should Jordan Brand consider teaming up with Diab for an official design? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
