Jordan Brand’s Celebration of the Air Jordan 1’s 40th Anniversary with the “Skyline” GORE-TEX Jacket

The Air Jordan 1 holds a legendary status in sneaker culture, and 2025 marks its 40th anniversary. To commemorate this milestone, Jordan Brand is expanding beyond footwear with a stylish and highly functional outerwear release—the “Skyline” GORE-TEX jacket. This piece pays homage to the now-iconic “Skyline” photo of Michael Jordan soaring through the air with the Chicago skyline behind him, an image that served as the inspiration for the world-famous Jumpman logo.

Despite the revelation that this silhouette was actually derived from a 1984 New Balance photoshoot, Nike continues to uphold the original narrative, reinforcing the deep cultural impact of the Air Jordan 1. This new apparel release aligns with Jordan Brand’s efforts to blend historical storytelling with contemporary fashion, creating a product that resonates with both sneakerheads and streetwear enthusiasts.

This latest addition to the Jordan Brand lineup serves as a functional, high-end piece for those who appreciate the brand’s deep history while embracing modern materials like GORE-TEX. The “Skyline” GORE-TEX jacket is currently available in big kids’ sizes for $130, with adult sizes expected to release soon at a premium price of $500. The timing of this release appears to be strategically planned, generating excitement ahead of another highly anticipated sneaker drop—the “Black Toe Reimagined” Air Jordan 1, set to launch on February 15th.

The Story Behind the “Skyline” Photo and Its Influence on Jordan Brand

The “Skyline” image is one of the most iconic sports photographs in history. Captured in 1985, the image shows a young Michael Jordan leaping across the Chicago skyline at sunset. This moment of pure athleticism would later become the basis for Nike’s Jumpman logo—a silhouette that has transcended basketball and sneaker culture to become a global symbol of excellence.

However, in recent years, sneaker historians have pointed out that the famous Jumpman pose was actually inspired by a 1984 New Balance photoshoot. While Nike has never officially acknowledged this revelation, it has not deterred the brand from continuing to celebrate the original narrative. The “Skyline” GORE-TEX jacket serves as a direct tribute to this moment, reinforcing the importance of the image in Jordan Brand’s history.

This isn’t the first time Jordan Brand has referenced the “Skyline” photo in its product line. In 2022, the “Skyline” Air Jordan 1 was released, featuring a gradient colorway mimicking the vibrant sunset backdrop of the famous image. The new jacket would have been a perfect complement to that release, but instead, Jordan Brand is leveraging it to build anticipation for another major sneaker drop—the “Black Toe Reimagined” Air Jordan 1.

A Closer Look at the “Skyline” GORE-TEX Jacket

Jordan Brand’s decision to incorporate GORE-TEX technology into this release reflects a growing trend of blending performance materials with fashion. GORE-TEX is well-known for its waterproof, windproof, and breathable properties, making it a top choice for outerwear enthusiasts who demand both style and functionality.

The “Skyline” GORE-TEX jacket features:

• A bold gradient design inspired by the original photo, transitioning from deep purple to warm orange hues, much like the Chicago skyline at sunset.

• Waterproof and windproof protection, ensuring it stands up to harsh weather conditions while maintaining a sleek and stylish aesthetic.

• Lightweight construction, making it suitable for both streetwear fashion and performance needs.

• A high price point—big kids’ sizes retail for $130, while adult sizes are expected to be priced at $500. This premium cost reflects the high-end materials and exclusive nature of the release.

This jacket is not just an apparel piece but a statement. It caters to fans who appreciate Jordan Brand’s commitment to storytelling, nostalgia, and innovation. Whether for everyday wear or as a collector’s item, the “Skyline” GORE-TEX jacket is set to be a standout piece in Jordan Brand’s anniversary celebration.

Tying It to the “Black Toe Reimagined” Air Jordan 1

Jordan Brand’s strategic rollout of the “Skyline” GORE-TEX jacket coincides with the upcoming “Black Toe Reimagined” Air Jordan 1, set to release on February 15th, 2025. This sneaker is a modern take on the classic “Black Toe” colorway, but with a unique twist—it features “Air Jordan” lettering on the collar instead of the traditional wings logo.

This detail is significant because it pays tribute to an early sample of the Air Jordan 1, which Michael Jordan wore during the 1985 photoshoot that inspired the Jumpman logo. By bringing back this rare design element, Jordan Brand is continuing its trend of “Reimagined” releases that blend history with contemporary craftsmanship.

While the “Skyline” Air Jordan 1 (2022) was a direct tribute to the famous image, this jacket serves as a broader celebration of the moment and its legacy. It also sets the stage for the “Black Toe Reimagined”, reinforcing Jordan Brand’s ability to weave storytelling into its product drops.

Why This Release Matters to Sneaker Culture

Jordan Brand’s approach to this release highlights a few key trends in sneaker culture:

A Focus on Nostalgia – Many sneaker releases today are driven by nostalgia, with brands revisiting classic designs and moments from the past to appeal to longtime fans. The “Skyline” GORE-TEX jacket taps into this sentiment, making it a must-have for collectors who appreciate Jordan Brand’s deep history.

Blending Performance and Fashion – The use of GORE-TEX in Jordan apparel shows how brands are merging high-performance materials with streetwear aesthetics. This trend caters to both outdoor enthusiasts and fashion-forward consumers.

Limited-Edition Hype – With a $500 price tag for adult sizes, the jacket is positioned as an exclusive, high-end piece. This pricing aligns with the luxury streetwear market, where limited-edition releases command premium prices.

Strategic Marketing – The timing of this release builds anticipation for the “Black Toe Reimagined” Air Jordan 1, proving once again that Jordan Brand is a master of storytelling and product placement.

A Celebration of Legacy and Innovation

Jordan Brand continues to honor the legacy of the Air Jordan 1 while pushing boundaries with new materials and innovative designs. The “Skyline” GORE-TEX jacket is a perfect example of this balance—a modern, functional outerwear piece rooted in one of the most iconic moments in sports history.

For fans of Jordan Brand, this jacket represents more than just fashion; it’s a symbol of Michael Jordan’s journey, from a young rookie with sky-high potential to a global icon whose influence transcends basketball.

Whether you’re a collector, a sneakerhead, or simply someone who appreciates high-quality outerwear, this jacket is a statement piece worth considering. With the adult sizes expected to drop soon at $500, those looking to secure this piece should keep an eye out for its official release in the coming days.

As Jordan Brand continues its 40th-anniversary celebration of the Air Jordan 1, we can expect more nostalgic yet forward-thinking releases that blend the past, present, and future. The “Skyline” GORE-TEX jacket is just the beginning.