Air Jordan 1 Mid Banned (2020): A Closer Look
If you’re a sneakerhead, you’re probably familiar with the legendary Air Jordan 1 Bred, one of the most iconic sneakers of all time. The Bred colorway is a combination of black and red, which was banned by the NBA back in 1985 because it didn’t conform to the league’s dress code. However, Michael Jordan continued to wear them on the court, and Nike was more than happy to use the “Banned” controversy as a marketing tool. Fast forward to 2020, and we have a new version of the Bred colorway in the form of the Air Jordan 1 Mid Banned. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at this sneaker and see what sets it apart from its predecessors.
The Design
The Air Jordan 1 Mid Banned (2020) pair does apply noticeable, albeit few, tweaks to the overall template. The most obvious difference is the color of the eye stays, which now match the red accents on the shoe. This gives the sneaker a more cohesive look and makes the red pop even more. The other major change is the use of black laces and tongues, which contrasts with the red accents and adds some depth to the color scheme.
The rest of the sneaker follows the classic Air Jordan 1 template, with a black leather upper, a red Nike swoosh, and a white midsole. However, there are some subtle differences that set this version apart from other Air Jordan 1s. For example, the toe box is slightly narrower, and the ankle flaps are a bit shorter. The heel counter is also more pronounced, which gives the sneaker a more supportive feel.
Accessibility
One of the main selling points of the Air Jordan 1 Mid Banned (2020) is its accessibility. While the original Air Jordan 1 Bred was a high-top sneaker that retailed for $65 back in the day, the Air Jordan 1 Mid Banned is a mid-top sneaker that retails for $115. This makes it much more affordable and easier to get your hands on, especially if you missed out on previous releases of the Bred colorway.
Performance
While the Air Jordan 1 Mid Banned (2020) is primarily a lifestyle sneaker, it’s worth noting that it can also be used for basketball. The leather upper is durable and provides good support, while the rubber outsole offers decent traction on the court. Of course, this sneaker is not designed for serious basketball players, but it can certainly hold its own in a pickup game.
Styling Tips
If you’re planning to cop a pair of Air Jordan 1 Mid Banned (2020), here are some styling tips to help you rock them with confidence:
- Keep it simple: The Bred colorway is already eye-catching, so you don’t need to overdo it with the rest of your outfit. Stick to neutral colors like black, white, and grey, and let the sneakers be the star of the show.
- Roll up your pants: The Air Jordan 1 Mid Banned (2020) looks best when paired with slim or tapered pants that show off the sneaker’s design. Roll up your cuffs to create a clean and modern look.
- Mix and match: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different textures and materials. Try pairing the sneakers with a denim jacket, a leather backpack, or a wool beanie for a unique and stylish outfit.