The Air Jordan 1 has seen countless transformations over the years, with some colourways and collaborations becoming instant favourites. These iconic designs have garnered such a fanbase that sneaker enthusiasts have often longed to see them reimagined on different silhouettes. Thankfully, there are custom artists that can make that dream a reality. Take, for example, this low-top rendition inspired by the iconic High Union Los Angeles x Air Jordan 1 “Storm Blue” collaboration. The talented sneaker artist Jonathon Millar (jsm_801_customs) meticulously brings this unique creation to life, showcasing his dedication and craftsmanship.
The Inspiration Behind the Design
In 2018, Jordan Brand joined forces with the renowned Los Angeles menswear boutique, Union, to create a remarkable capsule collection. Inspired by the late 80s and early 90s, this collection reflected Chris Gibbs’s (Union’s owner) love for vintage footwear and apparel. The concept revolved around the idea of piecing together several vintage pairs of Jordan 1s to restore an OG pair.
The resulting design blended two different Jordan colourways into one unique pair, highlighted by yellow zig-zag stitching – a nod to the DIY repair approach. For the Union “Storm Blue” edition, the chosen combination was the OG 1985 colourways “Storm Blue” and “Bred”.
Recreating the aged, fuzzy heel and collar of an original 1985 Air Jordan 1 wasn’t easy. Jordan Brand revealed that it took nine attempts to get it just right. However, the final product was nothing short of perfection.
The design features a blue and white leather upper, with red and black accents around the collar. Staying true to the 1985 release, it also showcases larger Swooshes and Jumpman logos. To top it off, a pre-yellowed white midsole delivers that perfect vintage vibe (although we’ll admit it has been a divisive touch).
These sneakers hit the market in November 2018, retailing for $190 USD. Nowadays, acquiring a pair on resale platforms will cost you at least $700 USD, with prices often soaring even higher.
This unique design pays a fitting tribute to the iconic Air Jordan 1 silhouette, a gesture many sneaker enthusiasts deeply appreciate. Hence, why customs like the Union x Air Jordan 1 Low “Storm Blue” continue to captivate.
A Closer Look at the Sneaker Design
Inspired by its legendary predecessor, the custom “Storm Blue” edition reimagines the original AJ 1 Union collaboration theme in a sleek, low-top silhouette, providing a fresh look.
This beautiful reimagining stays true to the OG aesthetics, beginning with the base of white tumbled leather. The look is enhanced with overlays of “Storm Blue” tumbled leather, complemented by a sleek, smooth leather Swoosh in matching blue on the sides.
The flashy red leather ankle flap seen in Union’s design is now embodied in the heel of this low-top version, complete with the larger wings logo on the heel tab.
Other notable features include yellow zig-zag stitching details on the tongue and a hint on the topmost section of the eyestays. The familiar UN/LA tag also appears hanging from the Swoosh.
Rounding off the design is an off-white midsole, purposefully aged for that worn-in look and feel. Finally, a blue rubber outsole and yellow laces complete the unique colour scheme of this stylish sneaker.
How to Get Your Hands on the “Storm Blue” Air Jordan 1 Lows
So, if you’ve ever wanted to see the OG “Storm Blue” AJ1 collab reimagined on a low-top silhouette or if you simply love the colourway, don’t miss out on grabbing a pair from the JSM 801 Customs website. These are available in a range of full sizes (if you’re typically a half size, it’s recommended to size down) and priced at $875 USD per pair. As a bonus, you can save $25 USD by using the code “AD_SNKS” at checkout.
It’s worth noting that a “Black Toe” version of this style will be released soon. So, if you prefer the “Black Toe” colourway, you might want to wait for that release.
In the meantime, you can explore this concept for a Union x Air Jordan 1 High “Black/White-Shadow” design. And remember to follow us here at Sneaker Fortress for more updates on customs and concepts inspired by popular sneaker releases.
Do you prefer the Air Jordan 1 Union x “Storm Blue” in a low-top silhouette? Share your thoughts on this pair in the comments below!
