A Union LA x Air Jordan 1 "UNC Royal" Sample Surfaces

There’s no word on if this pair will ever see a retail release — but it’s sure nice to look at.

Footwear
9.6K 3 Comments

Union LA and Jordan Brand are set to reprise their wildly successful duo of split-styled Air Jordan 1 collabs from 2018 with a new “Varsity Red” colorway that’s been rumored to touch down before the end of February, and ahead of that forthcoming release a never-before-seen fourth colorway has been revealed. The pair, which may be a sample, continues the combination of OG colorways that the partnership has become known for by blending elements of the Air Jordan 1 “UNC” and the Air Jordan 1 “Royal.”

Revealed via a photo from sneaker collector Matt “Shoe Hefner” Jae, the new style offers a familiar formula by placing black-and-blue “Royal” collar detailing above a white and powder blue upper, aged midsoles and a powder blue outsole. Unique details include a suede collar — a nod to OG 1985 Air Jordan 1s, as leather collars didn’t appear on the model until its first retro release in 1994 — bold stitching below the collar for a nod to the shoe’s Frankensteined design and a custom tongue tag.

At the time of writing, there’s no official word on if this collaboration will see a retail release or if it’s an early concept or sample. However, it wouldn’t be surprising to see it touch down at some point in 2025 as Jordan Brand celebrates the 40th anniversary of the Air Jordan 1.

Read Full Article

What to Read Next

Official Images of the Union LA x Air Jordan 1 High OG “Varsity Red”
Footwear

Official Images of the Union LA x Air Jordan 1 High OG “Varsity Red”

Combining design elements from the Air Jordan 1’s original “Chicago” and “Shadow” colorways.

Is a fragment design x Union LA x Air Jordan 1 Dropping Next Year?
Footwear

Is a fragment design x Union LA x Air Jordan 1 Dropping Next Year?

A new rumor states that the trio are expected to celebrate the silhouette’s 40th anniversary with their own collaborative pair.

On-Foot Look at the Air Jordan 1 High OG "UNC Reimagined"
Footwear

On-Foot Look at the Air Jordan 1 High OG "UNC Reimagined"

Featuring an aged effect similar to that of 2022’s “Lost & Found” release.


Official Images of the Air Jordan 1 Low OG "Game Royal"
Footwear

Official Images of the Air Jordan 1 Low OG "Game Royal"

Offering a familiar combination of white, blue, off-white and black.

PLEASURES Presents SS25: Paris in Love
Fashion

PLEASURES Presents SS25: Paris in Love

Providing a plethora of patterned and printed outerwear pieces alongside fresh new graphics and accessories.

Celine Announces Date for Michael Rider's Runway Debut
Fashion

Celine Announces Date for Michael Rider's Runway Debut

Expect Rider’s first collection to show during the Fall 2025 couture season.

David Taylor Takes You on a Tour of His Aluminum Explorations
Design

David Taylor Takes You on a Tour of His Aluminum Explorations

In an exhibition at Stockholm’s Bukowskis Auction House.

SP5DER Serves Up a Snowy SS25 Range
Fashion

SP5DER Serves Up a Snowy SS25 Range

The pink-hued collection lands for purchase on Valentine’s Day.

"Protect Your Rights" Chair is a Commentary on Copying
Design

"Protect Your Rights" Chair is a Commentary on Copying

Together with David Ericsson, Swedish brand Blä Station is taking a stand against dupes.


H. Moser & Cie. Unveils a Boutique-Exclusive Streamliner Tourbillon Skeleton in Yellow Gold
Watches

H. Moser & Cie. Unveils a Boutique-Exclusive Streamliner Tourbillon Skeleton in Yellow Gold

Celebrating the opening of its first U.S. store.

‘Elden Ring Nightreign’ Will Be Releasing This Spring
Gaming

‘Elden Ring Nightreign’ Will Be Releasing This Spring

Now available for pre-order.

NOAH SS25 Sets Sail on a Journey of Renewal and Refinement
Fashion

NOAH SS25 Sets Sail on a Journey of Renewal and Refinement

“Sharper, smarter and more considered.”

The Nike Air Force 1 Low Receives a Monochromatic “Light Khaki” Treatment
Footwear

The Nike Air Force 1 Low Receives a Monochromatic “Light Khaki” Treatment

With black details accentuating the sneaker with line art-like appeal.

Konami Confirms Release Date for ‘Metal Gear Solid: Snake Eater’ Remake 
Gaming

Konami Confirms Release Date for ‘Metal Gear Solid: Snake Eater’ Remake 

Pre-orders expected to go live soon.

More ▾