In 1984 Jordan entered the NBA draft not knowing of what the future would hold. After being the 3rd overall pick for the Chicago Bulls, the game of basketball was forever changed with the introduction of the star player into the league. Jordan changed the game not only in the basketball world, but for sneaker enthusiasts as well. After signing with Nike in 1984, the partnership led to what might be the most iconic shoe of all time, the Air Jordan. After countless new colorways, silhouettes and remakes, the Jordan Brand is re-releasing one of the most legendary shoes in the Jordan line-up for the first time since 1985. With only 23,000 pairs made in total, the Air Jordan 1 High ‘85 ‘Neutral Grey’ is set to release Wednesday, February 10th. 

Taking a look back at the history of the Air Jordan 1, the silhouette wouldn’t hold its magnitude as it does today without legendary footwear designer, Peter Moore. Back in the day, Nike was known for being the rebellious footwear brand and wanted to develop something revolutionary, which was one of the deciding factors for Jordan jumping on board. Having a fascination with air and airplanes, Moore developed the Air Jordan 1 sneaker, tailoring to Jordan’s requests of being low to the ground. Paying tribute to Jordan’s team the Chicago Bulls, the first colorway of the legendary shoe was made in the signature red and black colorway, unseen from any basketball sneaker made before. At first Jordan wasn’t enthralled with the design as he said it resembled ‘clown shoes,’ but over time the design grew on him and eventually would become the most sought-after silhouettes in the growing Jordan Brand. 

Upon its release to the public, the shoe completely sold out, retailing at $65 a piece - being quite expensive for a sneaker at the time. Along with the original red and black colorway, Nike also released 13 other colorways which included the popular ‘Neutral Grey.’ With its positive reviews and developed following, the shoe became a staple and paved the way for more models within the Jordan Brand. 

To commemorate 35 years of the silhouette, the iconic ‘Neutral Grey’ is releasing once again with its classic ‘85 composition. Along with its original form, the re-introduction of the ‘Neutral Grey’ will be its first release as well since its ‘85 debut. The Air Jordan silhouette is made with a pure white leather base, accented with grey suede overlays - seen along the ankle collar and iconic Swoosh branding. Traditional Air Jordan Wings are embossed within the ankle, also, decorated in the grey hue. Its monochromatic complexion is detailed with perforated holes along the toe box and white stitching within the panels seen within its predecessor. Additional attributes include a gray rubber outsole with a white midsole contributing to its neutral design. To complete the design, classic Nike Air Branding is stitched against a mesh tongue, a focal point that cannot be missed. 

Paying tribute to its original form, the Air Jordan also reverts to its original styling with its OG collar height and shape which was only seen within the 1985 releases. Its heightened popularity receives even more attention as there are only 23,000 pairs in total that will be attainable by the public. With its rarity, the sneaker comes with retro packaging and to complete its design, the shoe will include a throwback hang tag that depicts Michael Jordan soaring over the Chicago skyline; paying homage to the team and city that helped jumpstart Michael Jordan’s historic career. 

Grab a more detailed look at the Air Jordan 1 High 85 ‘Neutral Grey’ above. Ready to secure your pair? Follow the instructions below to enter the draw and to shop all of our other current releases. 

Feature Release - Wednesday, February 10th

• Visit the “Releases” page on our site.
• Click your size and enter your information.
• You will be notified the night prior if your entry is granted.

Our Feature Release Draw ends Thursday, 2/9, at 4 p.m. PST. All winners will receive notice the night before the official launch date if they have won.