In the ever-evolving world of sneaker culture, few silhouettes command as much respect—and resale hype—as the Nike Air Jordan 1. First released in 1985, the Air Jordan 1 not only revolutionized basketball footwear but also became a fashion icon and a cornerstone of streetwear.
Today, the AJ1 remains one of the most sought-after sneakers on the market. But with resale prices often hitting hundreds—or even thousands—of dollars, the real question becomes: which Nike Air Jordan 1s are actually worth the resell price?
Let’s break it down.
Understanding the Hype Behind the Air Jordan 1
The Nike Air Jordan 1 has a unique mix of history, design appeal, and limited drops that fuel its resale value. Collaborations with top designers, artists, and streetwear labels have only added to its mystique. But not every pair that hits the resale market is worth your hard-earned cash.
To know which ones are truly worth investing in (whether to rock or stock), you need to consider factors like rarity, cultural relevance, material quality, and long-term value.
Top Air Jordan 1s Worth the Resell Price
1. Air Jordan 1 Retro High OG “Chicago” (2015 or 2022 Lost & Found)
Why it’s worth it:
This colorway is the holy grail for many. It’s the original 1985 design and arguably the most iconic Jordan of all time. Whether it’s the 2015 release or the 2022 “Lost & Found” version, the Chicago colorway consistently retains value and looks great with everything.
Resale Price Range: $500 – $1,200+
Verdict: Worth it for collectors and style purists alike.
2. Travis Scott x Air Jordan 1 High OG “Mocha”
Why it’s worth it:
This collab flipped the Swoosh and the sneaker game. Travis Scott’s take on the AJ1 introduced premium materials, earthy tones, and streetwear appeal that drove insane demand.
Resale Price Range: $1,500 – $2,500
Verdict: A long-term grail and cultural icon—worth it if you’re in deep.
3. Air Jordan 1 Retro High OG “Shattered Backboard” (2015)
Why it’s worth it:
Excellent quality leather, striking orange-and-black color blocking, and a storyline tied to MJ’s overseas dunk that shattered a backboard. This pair blends quality with collectibility like few others.
Resale Price Range: $900 – $1,500
Verdict: Premium quality and historical hype = resell-worthy.
4. Air Jordan 1 Retro High OG “Bred” / “Banned”
Why it’s worth it:
The Bred AJ1s are steeped in myth—famously “banned” by the NBA, they’re part of MJ lore. They’re timeless, versatile, and among the most recognized sneakers in the world.
Resale Price Range: $600 – $1,000+
Verdict: Always a safe bet for value and wearability.
5. Union LA x Air Jordan 1
Why it’s worth it:
Union’s collab gave the AJ1 a vintage, DIY aesthetic that was unlike anything else on the market. Both colorways—“Black Toe” and “Blue Toe”—became instant classics.
Resale Price Range: $1,200 – $2,000
Verdict: A fashion-forward AJ1 collab that continues to appreciate in value.
Pairs That Might Be Overhyped
While most AJ1s retain value, not every release justifies a high resale price. Some general releases or “limited” colorways see a short-term spike, then gradually dip in value. Pairs like the Air Jordan 1 “Volt Gold” or “Fusion Red” saw hype at launch but didn’t hold long-term interest.
If you’re buying for investment, stick to OG colorways, significant collabs, or unique storytelling.
Tips for Buying Nike Air Jordan 1s on the Resale Market
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Use trusted platforms like StockX, GOAT, or Stadium Goods to ensure authenticity.
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Check historical price trends—some pairs dip before climbing again.
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Buy DS (deadstock) pairs for maximum resale potential.
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Consider sizing—common sizes (US 9–11) usually have better resale liquidity.
Are Resell Prices Always Justified?
Not always. Some AJ1 releases are inflated by short-term hype, influencer posts, or artificial scarcity. If you’re buying to wear, focus on what you love, not just hype. If you’re buying to invest, do your research and track market trends.
The good news? The Nike Air Jordan 1 has one of the strongest track records in the sneaker resale market—many pairs maintain or grow in value over time, especially if kept in good condition.
Final Thoughts
With so many variations and drops, navigating the Nike Air Jordan 1 resale market can be overwhelming. But if you focus on classic colorways, high-quality collabs, and pairs with lasting cultural value, your investment is likely to pay off—in style or in cash.
Whether you’re in it for the fashion, the history, or the future flip, one thing’s for sure: some Jordans are more than just shoes—they’re legacy.
