The Air Jordan 1 is a monumental silhouette in footwear history, marking a significant moment for both basketball and street fashion. Designed by Peter Moore and first released in 1985, its influence transcends sport to become a staple of global style. The “Heritage” release is a noteworthy iteration that honors the sneaker’s deep history while offering a fresh visual presentation.
Design and Colorway Details
The Air Jordan 1 “Heritage” is defined by its distinct and thoughtful color blocking, which utilizes a classic palette of white, University Red, and black. The shoe is constructed primarily with a crisp, white tumbled leather base that covers the mid-panel and toe box, creating a clean foundation. This bright base is sharply contrasted by University Red overlays on the toe cap, heel counter, and ankle flaps.
Black accents are strategically placed to complete the look, appearing on the ankle collar, laces, and the iconic Nike Swoosh. The classic “Wings” logo is stamped in black on the red ankle flap, and traditional Nike Air branding is featured on the tongue tag, both serving as hallmarks of the Air Jordan 1 High OG design. The shoe sits atop a clean white midsole and is finished with a durable University Red rubber outsole.
The Story Behind the “Heritage” Name
The “Heritage” name is a direct nod to the sneaker’s origins and its connection to one of the most revered colorways in sneaker history: the “Chicago” Air Jordan 1. The colorway pays tribute by reinterpreting the famous “Chicago” color blocking. It essentially inverts the placement of colors, using white as the dominant base where red would typically be, creating a familiar yet distinctly new appearance that is deeply rooted in the brand’s legacy.
This design choice is not entirely new; it draws inspiration from an extremely rare sample from 1985. That original prototype featured a similar color layout but never saw a mass-market release, making it a piece of Jordan Brand lore. By bringing this concept to a wider audience, the “Heritage” release honors that piece of history.
Release and Resale Market
The Air Jordan 1 High OG “Heritage” was officially released on May 25, 2022, with a retail price of $170 USD. Upon its debut, the reception from the sneaker community was generally positive, though it did not generate the same level of intense hype as some other Air Jordan 1 releases. This made it a more accessible pair for many who were interested in adding it to their collection without navigating an overly competitive market.
On resale platforms such as GOAT and StockX, the “Heritage” has maintained a relatively stable value, often hovering close to its original retail price. Unlike highly coveted collaborations or limited-edition models that see their prices soar, the “Heritage” offers a more attainable entry point for collectors and casual wearers alike.