DRIFT

The shoes world is set for a major moment in 2025 with the highly anticipated return of the Off-White x Air Jordan 1 High OG, one of the most iconic collaborations in sneaker history. This release will not only honor the late Virgil Abloh, the visionary behind Off-White, but also commemorate the 40th anniversary of Jordan Brand, celebrating four decades of basketball and streetwear culture.

Originally released in 2017 as part of Abloh’s “The Ten” collection, the Off-White x Air Jordan 1 High OG redefined sneaker design with its deconstructed aesthetic, exposed foam, and industrial-style branding. Now, as it returns in 2025, sneaker enthusiasts and collectors alike are eager to see how Jordan Brand and Off-White will bring this legendary design back to life.

A Look Back: The Impact of “The Ten” Collection

Before diving into what makes the 2025 release special, it’s important to understand the legacy of the original Off-White x Air Jordan 1 and its place in sneaker history.

In 2017, Virgil Abloh’s “The Ten” collection with Nike changed the landscape of sneaker culture. The collaboration featured ten classic Nike silhouettes, including the Air Jordan 1, Air Presto, Air Max 90, and Blazer Mid, each reimagined with Abloh’s signature design elements:

• Deconstructed uppers with exposed foam and unfinished edges

• Text-based branding, including the iconic “AIR” print on the midsole

• Zip-tie tag, a now-iconic feature of Off-White sneakers

• Industrial-style Helvetica text, featuring location details and design notes

The Off-White x Air Jordan 1 High OG “Chicago” was arguably the crown jewel of the collection. Taking the classic 1985 Air Jordan 1 Chicago colorway, Abloh applied his raw, reconstructed approach, creating a sneaker that felt like a work-in-progress while maintaining a high-fashion aesthetic.

This sneaker was an instant grail, selling out immediately and reaching astronomical resale prices on platforms like StockX and GOAT. The collaboration solidified Abloh’s influence in both sneaker culture and high fashion, bridging the gap between streetwear and luxury.

What to Expect from the 2025 Off-White x Air Jordan 1 High OG

As the Off-White x Air Jordan 1 High OG makes its return in 2025, the big question is: Will it be a re-release of the 2017 version, or will we see something new?

While official images and details are yet to be confirmed, here are a few possibilities based on recent Nike trends and the way past anniversary editions have been handled:

A Reimagined Chicago Colorway

Given the importance of the original Chicago-themed Off-White AJ1, we could see a slightly modified version of the 2017 release. This could mean:

• Higher quality leather and upgraded materials

• Different distressing techniques or new details that weren’t part of the first release

• A special Virgil Abloh tribute detail, possibly a new zip-tie design or added text elements

A “Reimagined” or Aged Look

Nike has recently been pushing its “Reimagined” series, which features vintage-style distressing and aged effects on classic models. The Lost & Found Air Jordan 1, for example, recreated the look of an original 1985 AJ1 that had been stored for decades.

If the Off-White x Air Jordan 1 returns in 2025, it wouldn’t be surprising to see an aged version that makes it look like a well-worn sneaker straight from the archives.

A Completely New Off-White Jordan 1

Nike and Off-White may take a different approach altogether, introducing a brand-new version of the Off-White Jordan 1. This could mean:

• New colorways inspired by other OG Jordan 1 designs, like Bred, Royal, or UNC

• Experimental materials, such as suede or mesh, in line with Off-White’s design philosophy

• Additional storytelling elements, incorporating Virgil Abloh’s sketches, notes, or unseen design concepts

No matter which route Nike and Off-White take, one thing is certain: this release will be highly sought-after and will undoubtedly sell out within minutes.

The Cultural and Emotional Significance of This Release

Honoring Virgil Abloh’s Legacy

Since Virgil Abloh’s passing in 2021, the fashion and sneaker industries have continued to celebrate his impact. His collaborations with Nike and Jordan Brand were not just about sneakers—they were about pushing boundaries, storytelling, and making high fashion accessible to streetwear culture.

Bringing back the Off-White x Air Jordan 1 in 2025 isn’t just about nostalgia; it’s a way to honor his groundbreaking vision and introduce his work to a new generation of sneaker lovers.

40 Years of Jordan Brand: A Celebration of Legacy

Jordan Brand has become one of the most influential entities in sneaker history, shaping culture, fashion, and sports. The 40th-anniversary celebration in 2025 will likely feature special releases, collaborations, and retros, with the Off-White Jordan 1 playing a key role.

Other releases rumored for the anniversary include:

• Remastered Retro Jordan 1 colorways

• New collaborations with Travis Scott, Union LA, and A Ma Maniére

• Limited-edition anniversary collections featuring iconic silhouettes

By bringing back one of its most legendary collabs, Jordan Brand reinforces how much impact Virgil Abloh had on its modern identity.

Resale Market & Hype: What to Expect

Given the demand for Off-White x Nike sneakers, the 2025 Air Jordan 1 High OG release will immediately command sky-high resale prices. The original 2017 Off-White AJ1 Chicago regularly sells for $5,000+ on StockX, GOAT, and Stadium Goods.

For the 2025 version, expect:

• Retail price: Likely around $200-$250

• Resale value: Could easily exceed $2,000 within days of release

• Raffle-based releases: Most major retailers will limit in-store purchases and prioritize online raffles

If you’re planning to cop a pair, be prepared for intense competition, whether through Nike SNKRS, raffles, or resell platforms.

Final Thoughts: A Release That Will Define 2025

The return of the Off-White x Air Jordan 1 High OG in 2025 is more than just another sneaker drop—it’s a cultural moment, blending sneaker history, fashion, and tribute.

• It celebrates Virgil Abloh’s lasting impact on design.

• It marks 40 years of Jordan Brand, reinforcing its legacy in sports and streetwear.

• It brings back one of the most iconic sneaker connections ever, ensuring its influence continues.

Whether it’s a faithful re-release, a reimagined design, or an entirely new take, this Off-White Jordan 1 will be one of the most hyped sneakers of 2025. If you’re lucky enough to get a pair, you’ll own a piece of history—a testament to Virgil Abloh’s genius and the ever-evolving power of Jordan Brand.

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