2020 saw the release of the psychedelic Air Jordan 1 High by Jordan Brand and Latin music sensation J Balvin. The collaboration featured a layered tie-dye canvas upper with plenty of unique jagged edges to match its whimsical palette. Of course, any design this bold was bound to elicit different reactions from sneakerheads. If you’re among those who thought the colourway was a bit excessive but still liked the distinctive, customisable details, then this Rio-inspired J Balvin x Air Jordan 1 custom by John Trottier (@johnnyskicks_) might be the perfect alternative.
A Closer Look At The Sneaker
This pair is primarily covered in black hues, just like its main colour inspiration, the AJ3 Retro J Balvin “Rio”. The upper is made of black canvas and features dark elephant print accents around the Swoosh and on the toe, emulating the AJ3 model’s signature design detail.
In honour of the gradient midsole seen on the “Rio” AJ3, the heel and ankle flap of this custom get a pop of colour, going from vivid orange to deep abyss.
However, the angular detailing of the original J Balvin AJ1 mentioned earlier is still present, yet the collab’s interchangeable heel patches also receive a Rio-inspired redesign.
Is The J Balvin x Air Jordan 1 “Rio” Available For Purchase?
If you would like to commission a pair of these kicks, be sure to reach out to John Trottier via his Instagram to learn more about availability and pricing.
For the time being, feel free to check out more of this gifted artist’s striking designs, such as an Air Jordan 1 High design influenced by the design of KAWS’s 2017 collaboration with Jordan Brand, a Jordan Jumpman Jack inspired by the Wu-Tang Dunks, and yet another stunning interpretation of the Air Jordan 1 “Rio.” And for more custom and concept kicks, don’t forget to follow us here at Sneaker Fortress.
Would you like to see Jordan Brand and J Balvin recreate their Air Jordan 1 collaboration? Let us know your thoughts about Trottier’s design in the comments below!
