FOLLOW US
Newsletter
Sneaker Fortress
  • Sneaker News
  • Popular Releases
  • Top 10
Step Into the Future of Sneaker Culture.
Nike Shop
Sneaker Fortress
No Result
View All Result
  • Nike Shop
  • Top 10
  • Air Jordans
  • Nike
  • adidas
  • ASICS
  • Converse
  • Crocs
  • New Balance
  • PUMA
  • Reebok
  • Vans
Home Air Jordans Air Jordan 1

The Air Jordan 1 Gets A Kaws Reimagined Look

The highly sought-after KAWS x Air Jordan 4 collaboration gets reimagined on the iconic AJ1 silhouette.

Caryn Ganess by Caryn Ganess
May 23, 2024
in Air Jordan 1
Kaws-Jordan-1 
This post includes references to products from some of our advertisers. We may earn compensation when you click on links to these products. The opinions and information provided on this site are the original editorial content of Sneaker Fortress.

“What if” designs have been taking over the Instagram feeds of custom sneaker artists, sparking curiosity and anticipation. These creative artists often ponder: “What if” a collaboration experimented with other colours or explored different materials? But perhaps the most exciting change of all: “What if” the design adopted an entirely new silhouette, say one that has been iconic since 1985? Inevitably, every collaboration and colourway eventually finds itself reborn on the revered Air Jordan 1 silhouette by way of custom designs. A perfect example of this reimagining is the Kaws x Air Jordan 1 custom sneakers by John Trottier.

The Inspiration Behind the Design

Kaws X Air Jordan

It all started in 2017 when Jordan Brand partnered with Brooklyn-based street artist KAWS, also known as Brian Donnelly (who, by the way, is a former Disney illustrator), to reimagine the Air Jordan 4 Retro. The resulting sneaker became an instant sensation among sneaker enthusiasts worldwide. 

The hype surrounding this release was so overwhelming that fans even hacked into Donnelly’s website trying to secure a pair, a true testament to the design’s allure. Meanwhile, a raffle in London had to be shut down by police to avoid a potential riot. The reason? The design was just that compelling! The sneaker was, and remains, an exceptional display of minimalism and flair. 

Kaws X Air Jordan

This iconic shoe features premium grey suede across the upper, adorned with Mickey Mouse-like hands from KAWS “Companion” creation stitched into the layout. By removing the traditional plastic accents, the design ensures that the focus remains on the unique hand-stitched details. Key features like the artist’s signature “XX” symbol on the heel tab and glow-in-the-dark outsoles rounded off the look, striking a perfect balance between simplicity and playfulness. It’s not hard to see why the sneaker has attracted so much attention and demand. 

While the pair was initially priced at $350 USD when they were first released, their resale value has dramatically increased, fetching upwards of $2,384 USD on resale sites. Yup, these are still super popular! Yet sneaker artist John Trottier dares to imagine “What if” this amazing design used the Air Jordan 1 silhouette instead, and the result is just as glorious.

A Closer Look at the Sneaker Design 

Kaws X Air Jordan

Trottier’s concept retains the iconic elements of its muse but translates it to fit the AJ1 silhouette, allowing the design to feel both familiar and refreshingly new.

You’ll still find the sneaker adorned in luxurious grey suede, with charming little fists etched into the upper. True to form, KAWS’ distinctive “XX” emblem graces the heel; however, it’s now elegantly positioned on the lateral sides of the shoe rather than on the AJ4s plastic heel tabs. 

Kaws X Air Jordan

Where this design does diverge is in the sole unit. It features a grey midsole (notably sans suede) and a glow-in-the-dark outsole with an incredibly striking teal tint. This teal shade pairs so perfectly with the grey upper that it almost makes you wish it was a permanent feature in the original collaboration, not just visible when the lights go out. 

The kicks are complete with a set of light grey laces that offer a subtle yet appealing contrast against the darker grey upper. Though this iteration doesn’t introduce major alterations other than a silhouette swap and perhaps a slight colour tweak, it still somehow feels novel. It’s a pair we truly wish had debuted alongside the original release.

Are These Laws x Air Jordan 1 Kicks Available for Purchase? 

Kaws X Air Jordan

So, if you’ve also been wondering, “what if” the Kaws design was created with the AJ1, and you’ve been hoping to get your hands on just such a pair, there is a tiny glimmer of hope. While the custom artist, Trottier, hasn’t officially put these sneakers on the market, you should try sending him a direct message or e-mail to see if he might craft a custom pair for you. Given the buzz these kicks have garnered on social media, we wouldn’t be surprised if he considers releasing a limited quantity of these for keen buyers. 

In the meantime, why not explore this Air Jordan 1 concept inspired by the upcoming J Balvin x Air Jordan 3 “Rio”? And don’t forget to stay connected with us here at Sneaker Fortress for more custom creations and concepts inspired by your favourite sneaker drops. 

Would the KAWS X Air Jordan design gain the same level of adoration if it were crafted on the 1s instead of the 4s? Share your opinions in the comments below!

Tags: Air JordanAir Jordan 1Sneaker News
ShareTweetSend
Our favourites. Available now at Nike.com

Caryn Ganess

Caryn Ganess

Caryn Ganess is a South African writer and pop culture commentator with a razor-sharp eye for sneaker trends and a deep-rooted passion for storytelling. Originally from the windy shores of Port Elizabeth, Caryn graduated cum laude with an Honours Degree in Psychology — a background that now fuels her captivating explorations of human behavior, fashion, and fandom. Whether she’s unpacking the cultural legacy of the Nike Cortez, breaking down the enduring cool of the Air Jordan 11, or analysing the psychological depth of your favourite movie villain, Caryn blends academic insight with real-world relevance. Her writing doesn’t just cover sneakers, film, gaming, and comics — it dissects them with precision, flair, and a personal touch that resonates with readers. An accomplished contributor to Fortress of Solitude, Sneaker Fortress, 23 Jumpman Street and Lifestyle Fortress, Caryn has become known for her ability to connect the dots between psychology and pop culture. As a full-time mother, she brings an added layer of empathy and lived experience to her work, offering a refreshing perspective on the emotional power of entertainment and storytelling. From retro kicks to psychological thrillers, Caryn tells the stories behind what we wear and what we watch — one article (and one sole) at a time.

Related Posts

Air Jordan 1 Retro Low OG "Obsidian"
Air Jordan 1

The Air Jordan 1 Retro Low OG “Obsidian” Is A Nod To Sneaker History

March 24, 2025
pink travis scott jordan
Air Jordan 1

Are You Excited About The Travis Scott x Air Jordan 1 “Pink” Pack?

May 21, 2024
Air Jordan 1 "Royal Red/Gold" Celebrates MJ's Epic Jacket
Air Jordan 1

Air Jordan 1 “Royal Red/Gold” Celebrates MJ’s Epic Jacket

July 10, 2024
10 Most Affordable Jordan 1 Sneakers
Air Jordan 1

10 Affordable Air Jordan 1 Sneakers for Every Budget

December 13, 2024
Nike Air Jordan 1 “Madame Web” Sneakers Celebrate New Film
Air Jordan 1

Nike Air Jordan 1 “Madame Web” Sneakers Celebrate New Film

February 2, 2024
The Top 10 Best Air Jordan 1 Low Sneaker Colourways Of All Time
Air Jordan 1

The Top 10 Best Air Jordan 1 Low Sneaker Colourways Of All Time

January 21, 2025
Travis Scott x Air Jordan 1 Low "Neapolitan" Is A Treat
Air Jordan 1

Travis Scott x Air Jordan 1 Low “Neapolitan” Is A Treat

February 21, 2024
Air Jordan 1 High "Old Brogue" Is the Perfect Gentleman's Sneaker
Air Jordan 1

Air Jordan 1 High “Old Brogue” Is the Perfect Gentleman’s Sneaker

March 23, 2024
Air Jordan 1 Low Peanut Butter & Chocolate
Air Jordan 1

The Air Jordan 1 Low “Peanut Butter & Chocolate” Sneaker Is Absolutely Beautiful

October 4, 2024
Gucci Air Jordan 1
Air Jordan 1

Pull Out The Red Carpet For The Gucci Air Jordan 1

January 2, 2025
Load More

Trending

INFINITE ARCHIVES Air Jordan 17 Low

INFINITE ARCHIVES x Air Jordan 17 Low Is Another Amazing 2025 Drop

November 14, 2024
The JJJJound x Reebok Club C “Tan Suede” Is Gorgeous And Minimalistic

The JJJJound x Reebok Club C “Tan Suede” Is Minimalistic

April 22, 2024
The Air Jordan 1 Low 'Quai 54' Looks Like It Was Stung by Style

The Air Jordan 1 Low ‘Quai 54’ Looks Like It Was Stung by Style

March 19, 2025
Sneaker Fortress

© 2025 Sneaker Fortress, a division of Fortress Entertainment. All Rights Reserved.

Company

  • Sign Up For Our Newsletter
  • About Us
  • Contact Us
  • Work With Us
  • Advertise With Us
  • Ethics Policy
  • Publishing Principles
  • Ownership
  • Terms of Service
  • Privacy & Site Disclaimer
  • Sitemap
  • Fortress Entertainment Sites:
  • Fortress of Solitude
  • Sneaker Fortress
  • 23 Jumpman Street

Connect

Nike Shop
  • adidas
  • Converse
  • Air Jordans
    • Air Jordan 1
    • Air Jordan 2
    • Air Jordan 3
    • Air Jordan 4
    • Air Jordan 5
    • Air Jordan 6
    • Air Jordan 7
    • Air Jordan 8
    • Air Jordan 9
    • Air Jordan 10
    • Air Jordan 11
    • Air Jordan 12
    • Air Jordan 13
    • Air Jordan 14
    • Air Jordan 15
    • Air Jordan 16
    • Air Jordan 17
    • Air Jordan 18
    • Air Jordan 19
    • Air Jordan 21
    • Air Jordan 23
    • Air Jordan 39
  • New Balance
  • Nike
    • Nike Air Force 1
    • Nike Air Max
    • Nike Dunk
    • Nike Foamposite
    • Nike Kobe
  • PUMA
  • Reebok
  • Vans
  • Yeezy
  • About Us
  • Contact Us
  • Web Stories

© 2025 Sneaker Fortress, a division of Fortress Entertainment. All Rights Reserved.