The Air Jordan 1 Mid XQ Returns To Celebrate Its 15th Anniversary
When released the in 2007 to celebrate the grand opening of retail stores across mainland China, it was produced in an ultra-scant run of 240 pairs that were quickly scooped up by lucky Chinese sneakerheads. It was the centrepiece of a full XQ (short for Xing Qui, which translates to 'week' in English) collection, and after its initial run it stepped back into the shadows until 2013 – when it was re-released with a Nike Air tongue tag. Now this is back for the third time to celebrate its 15-year anniversary, and its 2022 retro is a near-identical match to the original pair!
Dressed in a festive 'White/Gold Dust/Sport Red/Black' colour scheme, the XQ's signature details are abstract embroidered and lasered patterns that appear across the mudguard, quarter panels and heels. There are also more discernible star patterns present on the forefoot overlays, and the entire shoe is covered in gold contrast stitching.
Normally, sneaker lovers would be disappointed to see Jumpman logo on the tongue instead of a Nike Air hit, but here the Jumpman is a welcome sight as it's true to the 2007 pair. A finishing touch of premium flair is served up by gold lace tips, leather collar linings and specially-branded insoles.
A release date for the Air Jordan 1 Mid XQ's 2022 retro has yet to be announced, but the original pair was released in May 2007, so maybe this release will line up with its first drop. It should be more available than its 240-pair counterpart, and definitely won't be as expensive: the OG pair fetches four-figure sums on the aftermarket, and the first number usually isn't a one!