While some sneakerheads might argue otherwise, many would quickly declare the Nike Air Jordan 1 Low, which also launched in 1985, as equally important as its high-top sibling. Where some prefer the bigger, bulkier look of Michael Jordan’s signature basketball shoe, the sleeker lows have resonated with sneaker collectors, too. Also, like the highs and the mids, the Air Jordan 1 Low also comes in an array of iconic colour schemes and, of course, highly sought-after collaborations. In 2024, for example, fans eagerly awaited the release of the Trophy Room x Air Jordan 1 Low, arguably the most hyped sneaker of 2024. This proves that the love of AJ1 low has intensified over the years, cementing its place in history and in the hearts of the sneaker community. Let’s take a close look at some of the best Air Jordan 1 Lows of all time.
1. AJ1 Low OG Black Toe
Can you discuss Air Jordan 1 Lows without discussing the very first colourway? Marking its origins as one of the inaugural Air Jordan colourways, the “Black Toe” remains on the top of wishlists for most sneakerheads. Even today, it stands firm as a cultural icon. The above sneaker is the 2023 iteration, a low-top homage to the original, which flaunts crisp leather and iconic black-and-red blocking on a pristine white base. Crafted with premium leather and adorned with the iconic Nike Swoosh and Wings logo on the back, not to mention the Nike Air insignia on the tongue, this colorway remains one of the best of all time.
RELATED: The Top 7 Air Jordan 5 Low Colorways Of All Time
2. Dior x Air Jordan 1 Low
The 2020 collaboration between Dior and Jordan Brand took the sneaker world by storm, setting a new standard for luxury footwear collaborations. Selling for around $6000 on Stock X, the “Air Dior” collection’s rendition of the Air Jordan 1 Low OG is still in high demand today. With its exquisite leather and Dior’s signature pattern on the Swoosh, not to mention the icy-blue outsoles and unique tongue branding, it is a masterpiece of sneaker artistry. Ask anyone, and this will be high on their list of the best Air Jordan 1 Low sneakers of all time.
3. Travis Scott x Air Jordan 1 Low OG SP “Black Phantom”
Travis Scott’s collaborations with Nike and Jordan Brand are nothing short of legendary. It seems just about every sneaker the musician touches sells out in mere minutes online. Of course, the Black Phantom was no exception. This 2022 collab features the rapper’s signature reversed Swoosh, bespoke heel embroidery, and striking white stitching. This pair exemplifies the elegance of simplicity, underscored by its all-black versatility. But it’s not the only Travis Scott Air Jordan 1 Low on this list.
4. Travis Scott x Air Jordan Retro 1 Low “Olive”
Just about every celebrity has been spotted wearing a pair of these. Why? In all honesty, they’re just that good-looking. While it might be the rapper’s first sneaker collaboration in female sizing, that didn’t stop men from copping pairs of these, too. A black suede base with off-white leather overlays and olive suede swooshes. What’s not to love?
RELATED: The Top 7 Air Jordan 2 Low Colorways Of All Time
5. Air Jordan 1 Low Dark Powder Blue
A nod to Michael Jordan’s days at the University of North Carolina, this dark variant of the Powder Blue blends heritage with modern flair. With its light blue accents against a white and black base, this is a much sought-after sneaker for Jordan fans. It’s plain, simple and clean. And sometimes that’s all that’s needed.
6. Air Jordan 1 Low OG “Starfish”
Dubbed “Starfish,” yet widely recognized as “Shattered Backboard” for its distinctive orange, white, and black colour scheme, this women’s variant pays homage to its 2015 high-top predecessor. Launched in 2021, this sneaker is an unsung hero in the Jordan catalogue. That said, ask any collector about the best Air Jordan 1 lows of all time, and this release is bound to come up. It’s just a beautiful sneaker.
7. Trophy Room x AJ1 Low
The Trophy Room x Air Jordan 1 Low is too beautiful not to make our list of the best AJ1 Lows of all time. This collaboration between Air Jordan and Marcus Jordan’s boutique, Trophy Room, features two colourways: ‘Home’ and ‘Away’. Both designs are inspired by Michael Jordan’s early career and iconic moments, with the ‘Away’ version highlighting white leather and red overlays reminiscent of Vintage Bulls jerseys and the ‘Home’ version offering a white swoosh alternative. The sneakers incorporate elements like polyester fabrics, black swoosh, golden metallic wings, and Jordan’s signature, aiming to blend sports history with modern sneaker culture. It’s just a must-have for any Jordan sneaker fan.
8. Air Jordan 1 Low OG “Mocha”
The Air Jordan 1 Low OG “Mocha” is the baby brother of one of the most popular Air Jordan 1 High releases of all time: The Mocha. In fact, the colourway has undoubtedly been a fan favourite within the Jordan Brand, particularly the Air Jordan 1 series. So it’s no surprise that sneakerheads flocked to grab these in stores in 2024. This low-top “Mocha” design retains the familiar “White” leather base paired with “Black” accents on the toe, eyestay, and Swoosh overlays, similar to its high-top counterpart. However, the heel and ankle flap sport a slightly richer “Palomino” hue instead of the “Dark Mocha” shade. Branding-wise, the Wings logo on the heels sports a dark “Black” finish, while “Palomino” Nike Air branding highlights the tongue. Completing the design is a “White” midsole paired with a “Black” rubber outsole, reminiscent of the high-top version. It all ties together with a set of sleek black laces for a classic finish.
9. Air Jordan 1 Low “Black Cat”
This iteration of the Air Jordan 1 pays homage to Michael Jordan’s famous “Black Cat” nickname, following a tradition of designs that celebrate the basketball legend. However, this time around, the design takes a more whimsical approach to the theme. While the sneaker maintains the signature blacked-out aesthetic typical of “Black Cat” colourways, it also introduces a host of unusual details that are sure to intrigue. Think glow-in-the-dark cat eyes on the tongues, embossed fangs hanging from beneath the laces, and spider-web patterns on the toe boxes.
10. AJ1 Low Fragment Design x Travis Scott
Based on the original 2016 Jordan 1 Fragments, the Travis Scott Fragment Lows are a pair that is highly coveted. The simple colours of royal blue leather combined with black are too much to underrate. Combine that with Cactus Jack’s iconic reverse swoosh and yellowed soles, and we’ve got a sneaker that can easily stand the test of time. As a classic sneaker silhouette, the smoothness and unique identity make them special. We’ve seen a ton of celebrities sporting these, including Ben Affleck and Travis Scott himself.
RELATED: The 20 Best Air Jordan 5 Colourways Of All Time, Ranked
Tell us, what are we missing from the list of low Air Jordan 1s?
Our favourites. Available now at Nike.com
