Few moments on the court are as iconic as Michael Jordan’s free-throw line slam dunk from the ’88 Slam Dunk Contest. As a result, Jordan Brand has been careful to educate the new generation about the greatness of #23, from explaining the colorway used on the “Bred” Jordan 1 Mid to honoring his game-winning basket in the 1982 NCAA final with a mid-top construction released at the same time.
Now, the Beaverton-based brand is taking a trip down memory lane and returning to that historic February night, using the famous wide shot of his free-throw line dunk as the inspiration for its latest Air Jordan 1 Mid.
Exploring the tumbled leather on the mudguard and side panel, these overlays feature a primary “Chicago” red shade, transitioning into a neutral-toned palette. Cream leather covers the toe and heel of the silhouette, highlighted by numerous laser-engraved embossed motifs. Except for the collar panel, which reverts to a cracked leather construction, the laces, inner lining, and midfoot Swooshes provide deep black contrasts within this relatively bright design. Anchored by a classic black-and-white sole combination, the specially crafted details—such as the “3:51” embossing on the heel and inner tongue, referencing the exact time shown on the clock in the background of the photo, sketch-patterned insoles, and differently colored Wings logos—complete the design elements of the pair.
When is the Air Jordan 1 Mid GS “Dunk Contest” releasing?
Alongside a simple white box that allows kids to color their own design on the pair, you can see the official images of the Air Jordan 1 Mid “Dunk Contest,” available exclusively in children’s sizes. In other news under the Jordan Brand umbrella, take a look at the Air Jordan 1 Low “International Women’s Day.”
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Vlad Ciutacu is a writer based in The Hague, Netherlands. He has been working in the footwear industry for more than a decade, with hundreds of pairs in his collection. His favourite models are the Air Jordan 1 and the Nike SB Dunk Low Pro. Find him on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
