Carrying a rich history within its iconic silhouette, the Air Jordan 1 from Nike is one of the most in-demand trainers of all time. Whether you’re a self-confessed sneakerhead or you’re looking to add some history to your collection, you’re probably wondering how Jordan 1s fit and whether they’re true to size. It’s no secret that sizing varies from sneaker to sneaker, and the same can be said for brands, so what might fit you from New Balance may fit differently from Nike or Yeezy. To make sure you get it right the first time, check out this sizing guide on how the Air Jordan 1 fits.
Jordan 1: A History
First seen in 1985, the Jordan 1 was originally purposed as a highly functional basketball shoe. Widely recognised as the sneaker that started it all, the Air Jordan 1 set the precedent for all sport-lifestyle shoes to follow. Released after Michael Jordan was drafted to the Bulls, the basketballer signed an exclusive deal with Nike that year. Today, it’s hard to imagine Jordan sporting anything other than Nike, but he didn’t always want to wear the now iconic Swoosh. Initially, Jordan had his eye on adidas or Converse, but Nike made him an offer he couldn’t refuse — his own shoe line.
Following this, MJ was heavily involved in the shoe’s creation. Alongside Peter Moore, the two worked together to design an innovative sneaker that was “different” and “exciting”. The Jordan 1 borrowed components from previous iterations including the Air Force 1, Nike Dunk, Air Ship, and Nike Vandal, and boasted many of the brand’s signature basketball features, such as compressed air cushioning and overlays on the toe box. The one feature that was completely exclusive to the Air Jordan 1 was the legendary Wings logo.
The first ever line of Jordan colourways is almost as iconic as the sneaker itself. After initially causing a stir with the notorious “Banned” Jordan 1 (a black and red sneaker that cost Nike and Michael Jordan $5000 every time MJ wore them during a game), Moore and MJ reworked the shoe to follow the NBA’s strict guidelines. Now known as the “Chicago” colourway, it set the tone for more legendary colour schemes to follow. At least 23 different OG Air Jordan 1 models and colourways were released, including low Jordans, Air Jordan 1 high-tops and Jordan 1 mid sneakers, to name a few.
Fast forward a decade and Jordan 1s were the most-wanted shoes of the moment. Lauded by skateboarders, musicians and sports personalities alike, the sneaker’s retro appeal gained its popularity off the court as well as on. Its sleek build, snug fit, and subtly flashy design allowed for it to be an extremely versatile shoe for everyone, no matter the event or occasion.
Nowadays, the Jordan 1 has been reimagined through fresh designs and covetable collabs. Joining forces with Virgil Abloh’s Off-White in 2017, the duo released a series of ten deconstructed shoes from the Beaverton brand’s extensive portfolio, dubbed “The Ten”. Billed as one of Nike’s fastest and most ambitious collaborations, each sneaker was individually broken down by Abloh and then rebuilt with a fresh concept and rearranged components. Another world-class collaboration came in 2018 when Nike collaborated with Travis Scott on the Air Jordan 1 ‘Backwards Swoosh Mocha. Dressed in premium fabrics with earth-toned hues, this sought-after sneaker sports a flipped Swoosh and Cactus Jack branding on the tongue. An instant hit amongst sneakerheads and music fans, this iteration offers a modern take on the classic basketball shoe.
A pioneering kick that defined the industry, the AJ1 kickstarted a collective range of legendary Jordans. From the streetwear-approved Air Jordan 4 to the shark tooth-inspired Air Jordan 5, the Air Jordan 1 was the first of many trailblazing sneakers from the Jordan brand. The question is: which will you choose for your collection?
Do Air Jordan 1s Fit True To Size?
Do Jordan 1s run big or small? Unlike other brands such as Yeezy and New Balance, the sizing for Air Jordans can be very straight forward. To answer one of the most frequently asked questions from sneakerheads, Jordan 1s generally fit true to size. Therefore, if you’re looking to buy a pair, the best purchase would be to select the size you normally wear with any other Jordan sneakers.
If you wear thick socks or have wide feet, you can always size up to achieve a more comfortable fit. However, if you’re looking for a snug fit or have narrow feet, size down by a half size to create the perfect feel for you. Top tip: if sizing options are limited on the colourway you’re interested in buying, it’s recommended to size up rather than size down.
The good news? Jordan sneakers are generally true to size across the board. No matter if you’re buying an Air Jordan 1, Air Jordan 5 or Air Jordan 11, the size you wear for each sneaker will be the same throughout the entire range. However, there is a difference in the way Nike and Jordan trainers fit. For instance, the Nike Air Force 1 notoriously runs big, so you often have to either add an insole or size down. If you’re usually a women’s UK 6, you should order your Jordan 1s in a UK 6 and your Air Force 1 in a UK 5.5.
Although Jordan 1s are ideal when it comes to choosing your true size, high, low and mid-top trainers may differ when it comes to comfort and fit. For the Air Jordan 1 High, you might find it more comfortable sizing up then adding an insole — this will allow for more room around your ankle. However, for the Air Jordan 1 Low, opt for your usual size.
For those who are looking to buy retro Air Jordan 1s, it’s worth noting the older Jordan 1s have a snugger fit when compared to recent releases that fit true to size. The same is true of the Jordan 1s crafted using patent leather as these offer less flexibility and stretch. Always do your research before making a purchase and follow the size charts.
The Air Jordan 1 Fit and Size Guide
We asked our in-house team about their experience with the Air Jordan 1 to gain a better understanding of the sneaker’s fit. Overall, it’s clear from our research that the Jordan 1 runs true to size, but here’s what our team thought:
Our Head of Social said, “I find Jordan 1s fit true to size — I’ve always chosen my usual size and it’s always been the right decision. However, the shoe may feel a little tight if I wear thick socks, so it’s always best to plan your outfit accordingly.” When asked if Air Jordan 1s are comfortable, they said: “Air Jordan 1s may not look comfy compared to other shoes on the market, but they are surprisingly supportive. In fact, I’d go so far as to say they’re one of the most comfortable silhouettes in my collection. Aside from being a perfect fit for me, they go with everything in my wardrobe — I wear every colourway with jeans, joggers, shorts and more. They’re also timeless and seasonless — it’s a sneaker that I wear all year round, without fail.”
Similarly to our Head of Social, our Head of Product also chooses their true size when selecting their next pair of Jordan 1s. They said, “I’ve been wearing Air Jordan 1s for years now and own mid, low and high-tops. Despite having narrow feet, I find that each shoe fits well, particularly my pair of high top Jordan 1s, which feel extra supportive at the back. You could potentially size up if you have wider feet and use an insole to find the right fit.”
When compared to the Air Max range, the Jordan 1 fits true to size. Our Production Manager said, “I own a few pairs of Air Max 1s and Jordan 1s, and I find that I always size up with the Air Max 1. The Air Jordan 1 fit is similar to my usual shoe size.”
Closer Look: Most-Wanted Air Jordan 1 Trainers
Arguably one of the most innovative sneakers of all time, the Jordan 1 has undeniably earned its icon status. From Michael Jordan’s initial impact to recent reinventions and collabs, the silhouette has gained a loyal following throughout the years. We’re taking a closer look at the most in-demand Air Jordan 1s, including covetable colourways and legendary styles.
Air Jordan 1 Chicago
Designed by Nike legend Peter Moore, the AJ1 Chicago was specifically made to challenge the traditional sneaker styles worn in the NBA. Donning the Chicago Bulls’ traditional red, white and black colourway, this sought-after shoe is crafted from smooth leather with breathable perforations on the toe box, a secure lace-up fastening with matching eyelets and lightweight cushioning underfoot. Often considered the most iconic pair of Air Jordans of all time, this sneaker is constantly reimagined, proving its status as a timeless style with endless staying power.
The Ten : Nike Air Jordan 1 Chicago x Virgil Abloh
In 2017, Virgil Abloh’s Off-White put its spin on the iconic AJ1 sneaker, including it in the legendary capsule: “The Ten”. A collection of ten sneakers, Abloh updated Nike’s most history-defining silhouettes with his signature typography and deconstructed detailing. Among these silhouettes was the ‘Chicago’ which arrived in its famous red, white and black colour scheme, but was elevated with a 3D Swoosh, “AIR” lettering on the midsole. Complete with a staple Off-White zip tie on the collar, this AJ1 iteration remains a firm favourite of Nike’s history.
Air Jordan 1 Retro Low OG SP x Travis Scott Reverse Mocha
Showcasing Travis Scott’s favourite coffee-inspired colourway, the Air Jordan 1 Retro Low OG SP x Travis Scott Reverse Mocha flips the hue of the 2019 iteration. Soft suede dresses the sidewall and toe box, balanced by tumbled leather throughout. Scott’s signature style is highlighted through the “Cactus Jack” branding on the tongue, whilst Jordan’s Wings logo graces the heel. Rounded off with a reversed Nike Swoosh for instant recognition, lightweight cushioning underfoot delivers all-day comfort. Make sure to select your usual size when shopping this sneaker.
Air Jordan 1 Retro High White University Blue Black
Paying homage to one of the original colour schemes, the Air Jordan 1 Retro High White University Blue Black tributes the college colours of Jordan’s alma mater, The University of North Carolina. Arriving with a tumbled leather base, suede overlays run across the shoe’s upper and Nike’s Swoosh sweeps across the side. Further hits of black are found on the laces, branding and collar, refreshing the classic style with modern appeal. Perfect for the street or the court, choose your true size when you shop the Jordan 1 at Laced.