Colourway Corral: Jordan Brand’s 'Shattered Backboard'

In June 2015 an obscure moment in Michael Jordan’s storied career was echoed globally through the release of the Air Jordan 1 ‘Shattered Backboard’.

The year was 1985, and his airness was kitted out in the black and orange uniform of Stefanel Trieste for an Italian exhibition game where he scored 30 points and shattered the backboard with one fabled dunk. He did it all while rocking the AJ1 'Chicago' and after his impressive feat signed his game-worn creps and gifted them to a player on the opposing team. They recently sold at auction for $500,000! Making them one of the most expensive Air Jordans to ever sell at auction.

Since the original 2015 ‘Shattered Backboard’ release, it’s quickly become one of the most iconic weapons in Jordan Brand’s extensive arsenal of colourways. An impressive achievement especially considering it doesn’t hold OG status.

The Air Jordan 5 is the next chapter in the book of ‘Shattered Backboard’. And with the drop making such a splash, we were feeling nostalgic and trawled Jordan Brand’s catalogue to compile a list of all the sneakers that have been touched by the iconic orange and black.

Air Jordan 1 ‘Shattered Backboard’ (2015)

The one that started it all, the Air Jordan 1 ‘Shattered Backboard’ released on June 27, 2015. Featuring a full leather upper with black toe and overlays, alongside orange toe box and rear, the debut took place while Jordan Brand celebrated 30 years of MJ's legend.

As it wasn’t an OG colourway, some Jay collectors were quick to sleep on these. Many would have looked back and regretted that decision, seeing as it quickly became one of the hallmark Jordan Brand colourways.

Air Jordan 1 ‘Reverse Shattered Backboard’ (2016)

The following year after the initial release, Jordan Brand wanted to keep the ‘Shattered Backboard’ party going. Flipping up the original colour-blocking, they came up with the ‘Reverse Shattered Backboard’. It resembled the OG ‘Chicago’... but with orange!

Air Jordan 31 ‘Shattered Backboard’ (2016)

While not as hyped as the first two, it’s a noteworthy addition nonetheless! MJ's 31st signature model released in 2016 and Jordan Brand double-downed with fan-favourite colourways. The first to touch the silhouette was the ‘Banned’ with a ‘Shattered Backboard’ soon after.

Air Jordan 1 Women’s ‘Satin Shattered Backboard’ (2018)

Three years after the release of the first Air Jordan 1 ‘Shattered Backboard’, Jordan Brand resurrected the OG colour-blocking. A ladies-only iteration, the 'Satin Shattered Backboard' was crafted in luxe fashion boasting satin overlays and premium leather midsection.

Air Jordan 1 ‘Shattered Backboard 3.0’ (2019)

Excitement brewed during the extended lead up to the Air Jordan 1 ‘Shattered Backboard 3.0'. But when pics first started to surface, fans were polarised after finding that the upper was constructed with textured patent leather. Was it worth the hype?

Air Jordan 1 Low ‘Shattered Backboard’ (2019)

It took four years, but in 2019 the low-top sibling to the Air Jordan 1 received the famed ‘Shattered Backboard’ colourway. Interestingly, it also kept to the original colour-blocking strategy, with black toe-style front and Swoosh, plus rear orange overlays and toe box.

Air Jordan Mars 270 ‘Shattered Backboard’ (2019)

Always pulling obscure colourway inspirations for their latest creations, Jordan Brand looked to the black and orange for an Air Jordan Mars 270 in 2019. It wasn’t as popular as its AJ1 counterparts, but sure was clean!

Air Jordan Defy SP ‘Shattered Backboard’ (2019)

Jordan Brand loved the ‘Shattered Backboard’ colourway in 2019! They rounded out the year with the strapping Air Jordan Defy SP in black, orange and white.

Air Jordan 1 Mid ‘Shattered Backboard’ (2020)

Not all Air Jordan 1 Mids are mid! Especially not when combined with one of the most iconic Jordan Brand colourways of all time. 2020 saw the Mid-top AJ1 receive the ‘Shattered Backboard’ look.

Air Jordan 1 Low ‘Shattered Backboard’ (2021)

At the beginning of 2021, the sneakersphere was hit with the nice surprise that another Air Jordan 1 Low was receiving the ‘Shattered Backboard’ treatment. Officially, this AJ1 Low was actually named ‘Starfish’ however shares a striking resemblance to the colour-blocking used on 2016’s ‘Reverse Shattered Backboard’.

Air Jordan 5 ‘Shattered Backboard’ (2021)

The most recent ‘Shattered Backboard’ release is interesting. Employing the Air Jordan 5, the mesh that’s usually reserved for the midfoot area, was extended all the way up to the ankle collar. The iconic black and orange hits touch the midsole.

These AJ5s release on October 2! Will you be copping? Peep our Where to Buy guide if you’re looking for retailers and raffles.

Before you go, take a look at some of our other Jordan Brand Colourway Corral features! Like the ‘Black Cement’ here and the ‘White Cement’ here.