They Can't Stop You From Wearing the Air Jordan 1 'Rebellionaire'

When the NBA 'banned' Michael Jordan from wearing red and black sneakers during his rookie season with the Chicago Bulls, the league unknowingly handed Nike and Jordan Brand a perfect marketing opportunity. MJ's red and black Air Ship (the precursor to the Air Jordan 1) ran afoul of the league's footwear colour requirements, and he was fined every time he wore it on the court – a tab that Nike happily picked up in preparation for a special marketing campaign.

When the Air Jordan 1 was released later in Jordan's rookie season, Nike wrote their own narrative, creating a famous commercial that claimed the NBA 'banned' the shoe but couldn't stop you from wearing it. This commercial is the stuff of Swoosh marketing lore, and now it's inspired a new Air Jordan 1 'Rebellionaire' that's set to release in 2022.

The 'Rebellionaire' is decidedly not subtle. Though it features a familiar Air Jordan 1 'Shadow' colour scheme, it's made of attention-demanding glossy leather and covered in text hits. On its grey pieces, this text is smaller and more cramped, while on the black pieces it's super-sized. Both display the same message, however: 'they can't stop you from wearing them,' a nod to the above-mentioned commercial. A famous red 'X' first seen on 2011's Air Jordan 1 'Banned' appears on each heel as well.

Early reports have the Air Jordan 1 'Rebellionaire' releasing March 12 and retailing for $170, though both of these pieces of information have yet to be confirmed by the Jumpman. While you await its arrival, be sure to check out a new Air Jordan 1 Low with a platform sole here.