The Air Jordan 1 Low doesn't always get the same love as the high-top, but it's carved out its own legendary status in sneaker culture. While the highs dominate headlines and resale charts, the lows offer something different: effortless wearability without sacrificing the iconic silhouette that changed basketball footwear forever.
From summer staples to rotation pieces, the best Air Jordan 1 Low colorways have proven that you don't a higher shoe to make a statement. Here's our ranking of the top 7 Air Jordan 1 Low releases of all time...
7. Air Jordan 1 Low "Shadow"
The Air Jordan 1 Low "Shadow" rounds out our top 7 with its clean, versatile colorway that works in virtually any rotation. This release features white leather as the base with soft grey overlays and black swoosh detailing throughout.
The Shadow blocking has always been one of the most wearable in the Air Jordan catalog, and the low-top version delivers that same energy. The grey and white combination creates a neutral palette that pairs effortlessly with any fit, from shorts to jeans to joggers.
Released as part of Jordan Brand's ongoing low-top lineup, the Shadow proved that understated colorways still have massive appeal. The materials are solid, the construction is clean, and the overall execution honors the original high-top version.
While it sits at number 7, that's more about the incredible competition than any weakness in the sneaker itself. The Shadow remains a go-to option for sneakerheads who want classic Air Jordan 1 aesthetics without the bold contrast of Chicago or Bred blocking.
6. Air Jordan 1 Low "Obsidian UNC"
The Air Jordan 1 Low "Obsidian UNC" lands at number 6 with its sophisticated take on Carolina blue. This colorway features a white leather base paired with obsidian navy overlays and university blue swoosh detailing.
The combination creates a cleaner, more mature look compared to the standard UNC colorway while still honoring those Tar Heel roots. The obsidian blue provides deeper, richer contrast against the white base than traditional royal or Carolina blue.
A fresh interpretation of UNC-inspired blocking, this sneaker offered something different for fans of the classic palette. The navy and light blue combination works beautifully together, creating visual depth without overwhelming the eye.
The materials maintain Jordan Brand's quality standards with premium leather throughout the upper. This colorway became an instant favorite for those seeking something beyond the standard UNC look.
It ranks at 6 because while it's beautifully executed, it's still a variation rather than an original template. The Obsidian UNC proves that Jordan Brand can innovate on classic themes while maintaining the essence that makes them special.
5. Air Jordan 1 Low "UNC"
The Air Jordan 1 Low "UNC" claims the middle spot with its direct tribute to Michael Jordan's college roots. This release features the classic white and Carolina blue blocking that's become synonymous with Jordan's time at North Carolina.
The crisp white leather base paired with powder blue overlays creates one of the cleanest colorways in sneaker history. The UNC colorway has been a staple across the entire Air Jordan lineup for decades, and the low-top version delivers that same timeless appeal.
It dropped multiple times due to consistent demand, this sneaker proves that simple, classic blocking never goes out of style. The Carolina blue pops beautifully against the white base without feeling too loud or overwhelming. It's the perfect summer sneaker but works year-round thanks to its versatile color scheme.
The materials are consistently solid across retro releases, maintaining that premium leather feel. At number 5, the UNC sits right in the middle because it's both iconic and incredibly wearable.
It represents everything great about the Air Jordan 1 Low: clean design, quality execution, and meaningful connection to MJ's legacy.
4. Air Jordan 1 Low "Game Royal"
The Air Jordan 1 Low "Game Royal" breaks into the top 4 with its vibrant royal blue colorway. This release features a white leather base with bold royal blue overlays and black swoosh detailing throughout.
The royal blue creates stronger, more saturated contrast compared to the softer Carolina blue of the UNC version. Released as part of Jordan Brand's commitment to classic OG colorways in low-top form, the Game Royal immediately resonated with fans.
The combination of white, royal blue, and black creates a timeless athletic aesthetic that never feels dated. The deeper blue tone gives this sneaker a slightly more aggressive presence compared to lighter blue variations.
Quality leather construction and attention to detail make this a premium option in the Air Jordan 1 Low lineup. The royal blue has history throughout the Air Jordan shoes, appearing on multiple classic releases over the decades.
At number 4, the "Game Royal" earns its spot through bold color choice and greatexecution.
3. Air Jordan 1 Low "Shattered Backboard"
The Air Jordan 1 Low "Shattered Backboard" cracks the top 3 with its legendary orange and black colorway. This release brings the iconic Shattered Backboard blocking to the low-top silhouette with stunning results.
The white leather base paired with starfish orange overlays and black detailing creates one of the most recognizable colorways in sneaker culture. The "Shattered Backboard" name references MJ's famous backboard-breaking dunk in Italy during an exhibition game. That story combined with the beautiful color palette has made every SBB release instant gold.
The orange and black combination evokes classic athletic aesthetics while feeling completely fresh and modern. Premium leather construction elevates this above standard general releases, giving it that luxury feel.
The colorway translates perfectly to the low-top silhouette, maintaining all the visual impact of the high-top version. At number 4, the "Shattered Backboard" Low earns its bronze medal through heritage, storytelling, and pure aesthetic excellence.
2. Air Jordan 1 Low "Bred Toe"
The Air Jordan 1 Low "Bred Toe" takes 2nd as a perfect hybrid of two classic colorways. This release combines elements of the "Bred" and "Black Toe" blocking into one incredibly versatile sneaker.
White leather forms the base while black overlays dominate the toe and heel, with university red appearing on the swoosh and collar. The Bred Toe represents Jordan Brand's ability to create new classics by thoughtfully combining heritage elements.
This colorway proved that innovation doesn't require abandoning what already works. The black toe box provides versatility while the red swoosh adds just enough pop to keep things interesting. Quality materials throughout ensure this sneaker looks and feels premium on foot.
The Bred Toe works with almost any outfit, from athletic wear to casual streetwear to slightly dressed-up occasions. At number 2, it sits just below the top spot because while it's incredibly well-executed, it's still a combination rather than an original template.
1. Air Jordan 1 Low "Chicago"
The Air Jordan 1 Low "Chicago" reigns supreme as the greatest Air Jordan 1 Low ever created. This is the colorway that started everything, the original template that defined what an Air Jordan should look like.
White leather provides the base while varsity red overlays and black detailing create the most iconic blocking in sneaker history. The "Chicago" colorway represents Michael Jordan's team, his legacy, and the city where he became a legend. Every element of this sneaker is perfectly balanced, from the red and white contrast to the subtle black accents.
Released multiple times over the years, the Chicago Low sells out instantly every single time it drops. The materials vary across retros, but the timeless design language remains constant and unbeatable.
This colorway works in literally any situation, any season, any outfit, any occasion. At number one, the "Chicago" Low sits atop this ranking because it's the foundation everything else builds from. It's not just the best Air Jordan 1 Low, it's a perfect example of why simple classic design will always triumph.
