The world of sneaker collecting is filled with nostalgia, passion, and sometimes, controversy. One topic that sparks heated debates among collectors is the concept of “Original” or “OG” Air Jordans. In this post, we’ll delve into what makes OG Air Jordans so special, explore their history, and ask the question: are they still the holy grail of sneaker collectors?
For those who may not be familiar with the term, OG stands for “Original,” which refers to the very first time a particular model of Air Jordan was released. These shoes were created by Peter Moore, the original designer of the iconic Air Jordan 1, in collaboration with Michael Jordan himself. The OG Air Jordans are considered the most valuable and highly sought-after among collectors due to their rarity, historical significance, and, of course, their incredible design.
The first Air Jordan 1s were released in 1985 and featured a distinctive black and red color scheme, designed to resemble the Chicago Bulls’ uniform. The shoe was initially banned by the NBA because it didn’t conform to the league’s dress code, which only allowed players to wear white or black shoes. This controversy, however, only added fuel to the fire, making the OG Air Jordans even more desirable and iconic.
Fast forward to today, and the value of OG Air Jordans has skyrocketed. Certain models, like the 1985 Air Jordan 1 “Bred” or “Black Toe,” can fetch prices upwards of $10,000 or more on the resale market. This is largely due to their scarcity, as most OG pairs have been lost, damaged, or destroyed over time.
So, why do sneaker collectors go crazy for OG Air Jordans? It’s not just about the money; it’s about the exclusivity, the history, and the prestige that comes with owning one of these rare and iconic shoes. For many, collecting OG Air Jordans is a way to connect with their childhood memories, relive the excitement of the early 1980s, or simply own a piece of sneaker history.
In recent years, Nike has released “OG-inspired” versions of popular Jordan models, such as the Air Jordan 1 High OG Crafted and the Air Jordan 4 Retro. These re-releases have sparked debate among collectors about what truly constitutes an OG shoe. Some argue that these retro releases are not authentic OGs because they’re not from the original release date or don’t feature the exact same design. Others believe that as long as the shoe has the same DNA and aesthetic, it’s still an OG at heart.
Ultimately, whether you consider OG Air Jordans to be the holy grail of sneaker collectors is a matter of personal opinion. For some, owning an authentic OG pair is the ultimate goal; for others, re-releases or even high-end replicas can satisfy their craving for these iconic shoes.
As we look back on the history of Air Jordan and the evolution of sneaker culture, it’s clear that OG Air Jordans will always hold a special place in the hearts of collectors. Their rarity, significance, and timeless design make them a true treasure for those who seek to own a piece of sneaker history.
So, are OG Air Jordans still the holy grail of sneaker collectors? In our opinion, yes – but only if you’re willing to go the extra mile to find that perfect pair.
