Over the years, Union Los Angeles has put its distinctive stamp on several sneaker collaborations alongside Nike. We’re talking about the memorable Union x Nike Air Force 180 “Clerks Pack” from 2005 and the much-lusted-over Union x Nike Dunk “Passport Pack” that made 2022 such a fashion standout. These collaborations are a testament to the fresh, unique lens that Union brings to the realm of sneaker design. But the superb Air Jordan collaborations birthed from this partnership are what really caught our interest as long-term followers and fans. There have been a fair number of releases, and yes, we’re absolutely still revelling in the excitement from the Union x Bephie’s Beauty Supply Air Jordan 1 High OG release last year. But who can ever get enough? Thankfully, stumbling across this concept design by House of Heat has certainly stoked the fires of anticipation for future releases. They have envisioned what a brand new Union x Air Jordan 1, inspired by the classic “Black/White” and “Shadow” colourways, might look like.
Background of the Union x Air Jordan 1 “Black/White-Shadow” Design
If memories of the 2018 Union x Air Jordan 1 collaboration are still fresh in your mind, you’ll immediately understand the inspirations behind this concept sneaker. The original design was a throwback to the process of deconstructing Jordan 1 sneakers to repair OG pairs. As a result, the sneakers boasted a mix of OG colourways.
Not only were sneaker enthusiasts treated with a Neutral Grey and Black Toe pair, but there was also an eye-catching Bred and Storm Blue design that simultaneously hit the market.
Keen to develop this idea further, House of Heat presents an exciting mashup of beloved Jordan 1 palettes. They have paired the legendary “Black/White” with the much-loved “Shadow” colour scheme to create a design that would become an instant cop if it was to release.
As luck would have it, this year will see the return of the Air Jordan 1 “Shadow,” albeit in low-top form and a re-imagined satin version for the ladies. There is also a return of the “Black/White” AJ1 High but with a slight switch-a-roo in the application. As such, we couldn’t help but throwback to this marvellous concept design and its promise.
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Design Details
Much like the OG collab, this concept sneaker offers up a vintage, reworked aesthetic. The fuzzy, weathered collar is done in black with dark black tumbled leather overlays to match. However, the ankle flap deviates from the rest of the overlays, taking on a grey colour.
Just as its inspiration dictates, this pair features thick-cut leather overlays that showcase edges tinged with a subtle hint of yellow. This vibrant colouring of the edges complements the additional yellow details found elsewhere on the shoe, from the zig-zag stitches and exposed foam to the prominent Union LA logo.
From there, the design’s base (which is probably what I should have started with) is crisp white tumbled leather. Rounding out the aesthetic is an aged midsole paired with a black rubber outsole, all tied together perfectly by a set of weathered white laces.
Honestly, this colour pairing works so well; it is almost like they aren’t from different sneaker models. Plus, the understated colour scheme really allows the signature design details to shine. I am sure you can agree that this is a follow-up colourway we all need. Let’s just hope Union LA gets an opportunity for round two of the 2018 Air Jordan 1 collaboration.
Could 2024 See Another Union x Air Jordan Release?
As it stands, no collaboration between Union LA and Air Jordan is on the cards this year. Nevertheless, Union LA has been flexing its creative muscles on the Nike Field General. This fresh sneaker will be released in three distinct shades (Shimmer Silt Red, Black, and Ivory), and it’s poised for a $120 USD debut in Summer 2024.
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So, even if the fruition of the “Black/White-Shadow” concept isn’t on the horizon for this year, there’s still a chance to add a Union LA collaboration to your collection. And who knows, the future may even bring something reminiscent of this “Black/White-Shadow” release into existence.
What do you think of this design concept by House of Heat? Is the Union x Air Jordan 1 Black/White-Shadow” something you want to see brought to life?
Source: Instagram
