1. Blog Home
  2. Sneaker Releases
Jordan 1 Low OG "Banned"

Sneaker Releases

Jordan 1 Low OG "Banned" Launching 05/02 Colorway: BLACK/VARSITY RED/SUMMIT WHITE Style: Men's and Kid's Sneakers

Release Date: May 02, 2026

Apr 23, 2026

Ready to rock the Jordan 1 Low OG like the OG himself? On May 2, Nike is bringing back one of its most iconic colorways with the Air Jordan 1 Low "Banned" 2026 release, which comes complete with full family sizing and the original color palette that rocked the basketball world when it debuted. This new drop also adds fresh design updates, like a bold, signature red "X" that replaces the OG logo, for a modern twist on the classic layout. 

Releases tied to a controversial sports moment consistently sell out online and in stores. Let's take a closer look at what makes the Low OG "Banned" colorway a special retro release — and how you can get in on the drop. 

The 10.18.84 Legacy: From Court Controversy to Cultural Icon

In September '84, during his rookie season, Michael Jordan began wearing a pair of black-and-red Nikes on the pro court. At the time, the NBA's strict uniform policy required shoes to be at least 51% white. Jordan's shoes violated uniform rules in a big way — and the NBA responded quickly. In addition to a strongly worded letter, the basketball league fined Jordan $5,000 for each game in which he rocked the shoes.

Instead of complying, Nike leaned all the way in. They paid every single fine on Jordan's behalf and turned the punishment into one of the greatest marketing campaigns ever created. The now-legendary “Banned” ad campaign capitalized on the controversy with a simple message. "On September 15, Nike created a revolutionary new basketball shoe," the ad begins. "On October 8, the NBA threw them out of the game. Fortunately, the NBA can’t stop you from wearing them." 

Jordan 1 Low OG "Banned" Lace details
Jordan 1 Low OG "Banned" Left side of shoe
Jordan 1 Low OG "Banned" Heel derail
Jordan 1 Low OG "Banned" Bottom of shoe
Jordan 1 Low OG "Banned" Lace details
Jordan 1 Low OG "Banned" Left side of shoe
Jordan 1 Low OG "Banned" Heel derail
Jordan 1 Low OG "Banned" Bottom of shoe

Unpacking the Details: Red X Heels and Heritage Storytelling

Tons of collectors consider the Banned colorway to be one of the 10 AJ1 sneakers you need to have in your rotation. But this new drop is particularly epic, with the Air Jordan 1 Low Banned bringing the OG into the modern era. Some design notes to take a look at on these new kicks include: 

  • New heel tab: The most eye-catching feature on the AJ 1 Banned re-release is the bold red “X” stamped on the heel tab, replacing the traditional Wings logo.
  • Insole quote: Nike’s original “Banned” commercial quote is featured on the shoe's insole, with the date 10.18.84 also proudly stamped on the sock liner. 
  • Premium leather: The entire leather upper of the Banned release is crafted from premium leather, giving you a matte finish that feels upscale without being stuffy. 

Giving these kicks as a gift? Peep the premium packaging before you wrap. Each pair comes in a collector-worthy box emblazoned with the phrase “IMAGINE IF…?," paying tribute to Nike's legendary moves in the '80s.

Ready for May 2?

From girls' Jordan shoes to mens' adidas drops, Hibbett is your one-stop-shop for authentic heat for your family's spring wardrobe. Cop the May 2 drop and learn more about upcoming launches today with Hibbett. 

Related Categories

Shop the Story

You Might Also Like to Read