Here's What Inspired Union to Frankenstein the Air Jordan 1

With the release of the Union x Jordan Brand capsule just around the corner, we get a look at what helped inspire this unorthodox mashup.

Chris Gibb‘s personal relationship with the Air Jordan 3 was strategically put to the side for the Air Jordan 1, due to its powerful impact on culture-at-large. When discussing the history of the AJ1, Gibbs shared that “this design is meant to embody the feeling you get from the AJ1.”

The upcoming distressed iteration incorporates a nubuck Swoosh, thicker leather, yellowed midsole, exposed foam, curled edges and additional features that give it the worn-in look Air Jordan 1 fans have grown to love. Subtler details such as a larger-than-normal “WINGS” logo pays homage to a special-edition that Michael wore during the early days of his rookie year. Intricate attributes go beyond the exterior as the insole graphic and tissue paper receive an extra pinch of flavor thanks to a sketch from Jordan Brand’s own Paul Savovici.

Browse the images provided to see how far back Jordan Brand went into its vault to help cook up the Union x Air Jordan 1. The collaboration is expected to arrive on November 17 at select Jordan Brand stockists. Fans of the mashup can also take a closer look at the forthcoming drop.