
Jordan 1s are basketball shoes that were first released in 1985. They were made famous by Michael Jordan, who wore them during games. Jordan 1s are still playable today, but there are better options available. Modern basketball shoes have high-performance technology that can improve players' games. Jordan 1s are now considered a vintage fashion item and are uncomfortable for playing basketball in.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Traction | 9.5/10 |
| Cushion | 1/10 |
| Material | 7/10 |
| Fit | 7.5/10 |
| Ventilation | 3/10 |
| Support | 0/10 |
| Overall | 4.6/10 |
| Performance | Sub-optimal, outdated technology |
| Comfort | Uncomfortable, stiff, can cause injury |
| Price | $>250 |
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What You'll Learn

Jordan 1s are not ideal for basketball anymore
Jordan 1s are not ideal for playing basketball anymore. While the shoes were popular in the 1980s, they are now considered outdated for the sport. Modern Jordan 1s are designed exclusively for casual wear and have been for at least 15 years. The original Jordan 1s were banned from the NBA in 1985 for violating the uniform policy due to their red and black colourway being too flashy. However, Michael Jordan was allowed to wear them off the court and during the 1985 All-Star Dunk Contest, which contributed to their popularity.
Jordan 1s are now considered uncomfortable and unsupportive for playing basketball. The shoes are described as stiff and lacking support, making landings and movements more risky and physically taxing. The lack of support and cushioning can lead to injuries, with some users reporting that their feet bled after wearing Jordan 1s. While the shoes have great traction, with a score of 9.5 out of 10, their overall performance is rated much lower, at 4.6 out of 10.
The technology in basketball shoes has improved significantly since the release of Jordan 1s, and modern shoes offer better performance and comfort. Today's players wear modern shoes with high-performance technology to enhance their game. While Jordan 1s occupy a significant place in basketball history, they are no longer the best choice for playing the sport.
If you are looking for a pair of Jordan shoes that are more suitable for basketball, consider the Jordan XI or Jordan XII, which are known for their improved performance specifications. Additionally, the Jordan 4s are a great option, as Michael Jordan wore them during his overall best statistical campaign in the 1988-89 season.
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The original Jordan 1s from 1985 are better for basketball
The original Air Jordan 1s from 1985 are considered by some to be better for basketball than the modern versions. This is because they were specifically designed for basketball and offered great traction, cushioning, a lightweight build, and a snug fit. While the original Jordan 1s might not be as comfortable as modern shoes, they are still playable and can provide a good basketball experience.
The Air Jordan 1s were first released in 1985 and quickly became synonymous with basketball excellence. Worn by Michael Jordan himself, the shoes offered a combination of style and performance that appealed to both athletes and fans. Over time, the Jordan 1s have become a cultural icon, with their popularity extending beyond the basketball court.
However, it's important to note that shoe technology has improved significantly since the release of the original Jordan 1s. Modern basketball shoes are designed with advanced features and materials that enhance performance, comfort, and support. As a result, some people may find that the original Jordan 1s feel stiff, uncomfortable, or lacking in support compared to modern alternatives.
Despite the advancements in shoe technology, there are still those who prefer the original Jordan 1s for basketball. The shoe's traction and cushioning have been praised, with some finding that the flat base and leather upper provide a good balance of stability and flexibility. Additionally, the Jordan 1s' iconic status and association with Michael Jordan's career add to their appeal for some players.
Ultimately, the decision to use the original Jordan 1s for basketball depends on personal preferences and performance needs. While the shoes may not offer the same level of comfort and support as modern alternatives, they are still playable and can provide a connection to the rich history of the game. For those seeking a combination of style, performance, and nostalgia, the original Jordan 1s may be a suitable choice.
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Jordan 1s have great traction but poor cushioning
Jordan 1s are based on 40-year-old technology, and while they are great for casual wear, they are not ideal for athletic use. However, some people still choose to wear them for basketball.
The traction on Jordan 1s is widely considered to be excellent, with some describing it as "very tough to beat" and "the simplest, greatest traction setup of all time". The multidirectional circles, along with the soft and flexible rubber, provide impressive traction for medial and lateral movements. The shoe also offers solid lockdown and is made with full leather uppers and a rubber midsole and outsole, adding sturdiness and weight.
Despite the impressive traction, the cushioning on Jordan 1s is a different story. The cushioning is described as "basically nothing", and the shoe lacks adequate support, making landings and movements risky and taxing on the feet. The small air unit in the heel is barely felt, and the shoe offers minimal protection for the knees, especially during extended periods of play. While some prefer the court feel and minimal cushioning, it is not for everyone, and the lack of cushioning can lead to discomfort and potential injuries.
While the original Jordan 1s had poor cushioning, more recent releases have improved in quality. Some users suggest that the latest Jordan 1s can be sufficient for casual basketball players who are not fully committed to the game and are looking for a fun shoe to play in occasionally. However, for more serious or frequent players, modern basketball shoes with better cushioning and support are highly recommended to ensure comfort and protect against injuries.
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Jordan 1s are flat-based sneakers with no arch support
The Jordan 1s were originally designed as basketball shoes and were worn by Michael Jordan himself during games in 1985. However, the technology used in their design is now outdated. While you can still play basketball in Jordan 1s, there are better options available that utilise modern high-performance technology to enhance players' games.
The cushioning in Jordan 1s is inadequate, and the shoes have been described as having a "complete lack of support". This can make playing basketball in them uncomfortable and increase the risk of injury. One reviewer noted that they constantly smashed their toes in the toebox and experienced their feet hurting after playing in Jordan 1s. Another mentioned that the shoes made their feet bleed.
The lack of arch support in Jordan 1s can be mitigated by purchasing an insole with arch support. However, this is an additional cost and may not provide the same level of support as a shoe designed with built-in arch support.
Overall, while Jordan 1s are playable, they are not the best option for playing basketball. There are more comfortable and supportive shoes available that are designed specifically for the sport. The Jordan XI and Jordan XII have been recommended as better alternatives for playing basketball, offering improved cushioning and support.
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Jordan 1s are banned from the NBA
Jordan 1s are considered to be one of the most iconic sneakers in NBA history. However, they were banned from the league for a period of time due to their colour scheme, which did not adhere to the NBA's strict dress code rules.
The Air Jordan 1, released in 1984, featured a bold design with a fiery red mudguard, heel, and tip, paired with a classic black Nike swoosh. This colour combination did not meet the NBA's dress code requirements, which stipulated that "shoes worn by athletes must be 51% white and must match the shoes worn by their teammates and team colours." As a result, the NBA fined the Bulls $1000 for the black-and-red shoe debut, and Jordan was instructed not to wear the shoes on the court.
Nike, however, saw this as a marketing opportunity. They paid the fine and encouraged Jordan to continue wearing the sneakers, creating a narrative of defiance and "brazen charisma" that resonated with fans. The shoe gained the nickname "Banned" Jordan 1s, and Nike even released a commercial titled "Banned" in 1985, featuring censored blocks over Jordan's sneakers. The controversy generated immense hype, and the Air Jordan 1 became one of the most sought-after sneakers, with sales skyrocketing.
While the Air Jordan 1s were initially banned due to their colour scheme, it is important to note that modern Jordan 1s are not designed for basketball. They are now made exclusively for casual wear and are considered uncomfortable and unsuitable for the sport.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, you can play basketball in Jordan 1s, but they are not designed for this purpose. Modern Jordan 1s are made exclusively for casual wear and the technology is outdated for playing basketball.
Jordan 1s are uncomfortable and do not provide the necessary support structure to avoid injury. They have great traction but lack cushioning.
Yes, Jordan shoes from the 3s to the 14s are built more like the original basketball shoes. The Jordan XI and Jordan XII are also recommended for playing basketball.
Yes, the red and black Jordan 1s were banned by the NBA in 1985 for being too flashy and violating their uniform policy. However, MJ was allowed to wear them off the court on game days.
Yes, modern basketball shoes have high-performance technology that can improve your game.









































