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The original "Banned" Air Jordan 1 sneaker has returned. But the latest Air Jordan 1 Low drops tell the short version of the rule-breaking sneaker.

The Air Jordan 1 Retro Low OG sneaker receives nice luxe leather uppers, all dressed in the infamous black and red colorway (a.k.a "Bred") that once violated the NBA's dress code (at the time, basketball sneakers had to be primarily white with splashes of the team colors. The AJ1s did the opposite, of course).

Several other Easter eggs throughout which nod to the lore of the "Banned" sneaker. For example, there's a "10.18.84" on the inner collar, recalling the year Michael Jordan wore the shoes and changed the sneaker game forever. At the same time, the famous "X" marks the spot on the heel once again, as seen on the 2011 pairs.

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Nike marks the insoles with more X's, plus a literal short version of the bedtime story that has been told to sneakerheads for the past 40 years.

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Technically, the original Jordan sneaker returned in 2025, as part of the brand's 40th anniversary which featured other legendary returns. The "Banned" pairs are really these extra-special versions of the "Bred" sneakers that tell the full story.

Now, Nike's once again unpacking the history but keeping it short and sweet. And for those interested in owning a piece of Jumpman history, the Air Jordan 1 Low "Banned" sneakers are scheduled to drop on May 2 on Nike's SNKRS app, retailing for $145.

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