This is the Real ‘Banned’ Air Jordan Shoe

Goodwin Sports Management have all but debunked the ‘Banned’ Air Jordan 1 myth, posting on their Instagram a black and red Nike Air Ship given to Michael Jordan in 1984. It is clearly not an AJ1, but in fact a Player Exclusive with custom ‘Air Jordan’ printed on the heel tabs. This is the shoe that’s believed to have violated the NBA’s uniform policy.

The ‘Banned’ Air Jordan 1 is sneaker culture’s Mandela Effect. For decades, the mainstream has perpetuated the story of a black and red AJ1 being banned by the NBA for flouting uniform policy, and Nike footing the fine every time MJ wore his colourful creps on court. They even released an AJ1 in 2011 to affirm this urban legend.

It’s a debate that will rage on for decades, but at least this Air Ship offers some more clarity. Now, diehard Jordanheads and basketball historians can feel vindicated for knowing the real story.