Jordan 1
Air Jordan 1 Retro High OG ‘Banned’ 2016 Review: The Sneaker That Started a Revolution
Introduction
Few sneakers have had the cultural impact of the Air Jordan 1—and among its many legendary colorways, the ‘Banned’ (aka ‘Bred’) stands as the ultimate symbol of rebellion, innovation, and sneaker culture. The 2016 Retro High OG version of the Banned Jordan 1 brings back the iconic look with premium materials and true-to-original detailing, celebrating not just a shoe—but a moment in history.
Whether you’re a seasoned sneakerhead, a basketball purist, or a fan of fashionable sneakers with heritage, the Air Jordan 1 ‘Banned’ is a grail-level essential.
History: Why the ‘Banned’ Story Still Matters
The “Banned” nickname stems from a pivotal moment in NBA history. In 1985, the NBA allegedly banned Michael Jordan from wearing his black and red Air Jordan 1s due to uniform violations. Nike capitalized on this moment by launching a now-iconic ad campaign, claiming the league couldn’t stop you from wearing them.
Why It Matters:
- Sparked Nike’s rebellious, outsider branding
- Set the tone for athlete-brand storytelling
- Started the hype culture that fuels sneakers today
- Made the Air Jordan 1 a symbol of personal expression
The 2016 ‘Banned’ Retro celebrates that heritage with OG-level detail and storytelling accuracy.
Design & Colorway
The Air Jordan 1 Retro High OG ‘Banned’ 2016 brings back the exact specifications of the original 1985 release—with a few modern refinements.
Colorway Breakdown:
- Black: Dominates the upper panels, toebox, and heel overlays
- Varsity Red: Pops on the Swoosh, ankle collar, heel, toe box, and outsole
- White: Appears only on the Nike Air branding on the tongue tag
- “X” Detail: A red “X” stitched into the insole pays homage to the NBA’s ban
Visually bold and unapologetically defiant, this is one of the most stylish sneakers in the Jordan line—classic yet commanding.
Materials & Build Quality
This 2016 version is praised for returning to the high-quality standards of earlier retros, with tumbled leather, durable construction, and excellent shape retention.
Material Details:
- Upper: Tumbled leather for rich texture and long-lasting durability
- Tongue: Nylon tongue with traditional “Nike Air” branding
- Sole Unit: Rubber cupsole with Air cushioning in the heel
- Insole: Light padding with signature red “X” on left shoe
The craftsmanship of this release distinguishes it from past retros, making it more premium and authentically Nike.
Comfort & Wearability
While not engineered like modern basketball shoes, the Air Jordan 1 remains surprisingly comfortable for all-day wear—especially with lifestyle usage in mind.
Comfort Features:
- Padded ankle collar for support and classic high-top feel
- Air-sole unit in the heel provides impact protection
- Leather breaks in over time for a personalized fit
- Grippy outsole keeps traction solid on most surfaces
Whether you’re walking city streets or attending a sneaker convention, this pair keeps you both comfortable and sharp.
Style Versatility
Despite its bold color scheme, the Banned 1s are remarkably versatile and timeless. They serve as a statement piece or a subtle flex depending on how you style them.
Style Ideas:
- Streetwear ready: Black joggers, graphic tee, red flannel
- Minimalist fit: Black jeans and a white tee—let the shoes shine
- Court-core: Jordan jersey, shorts, and retro basketball socks
- Smart casual: Neutral chinos and bomber jacket with a pop of red
These Nike shoes bridge generations and subcultures, making them a go-to for both casual wearers and die-hard collectors.
Who Should Buy the Air Jordan 1 ‘Banned’?
This isn’t just a sneaker—it’s a story. It’s ideal for those who want:
- A piece of basketball history
- Timeless design with bold color blocking
- Premium materials and OG shape
- Versatile use for style, collecting, or everyday wear
From skaters to CEOs, the Banned 1 works for just about anyone.
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Iconic design with rebellious backstory | Can crease easily with frequent wear due to soft leather |
| Premium materials and OG branding | Pricey on resale market depending on size and condition |
| Strong visual impact with versatile styling options | Less comfortable than modern performance sneakers |
| True-to-original build and shape | High demand makes it hard to find at retail price |
Comparison: Banned 1 vs. Other Air Jordan 1s
| Model | Unique Factor | Compared to ‘Banned’ |
|---|---|---|
| Jordan 1 ‘Chicago’ | White base with red overlays | ‘Banned’ is darker and more aggressive visually |
| Jordan 1 ‘Shadow’ | Grey and black color blocking | Banned has stronger contrast and cultural weight |
| Jordan 1 ‘Royal’ | Blue and black combination | Equally iconic, but less rebellious in tone |
| Jordan 1 ‘Pine Green’ | Modern green twist | Banned sticks to OG, heritage-rich roots |
The Banned 1 sits at the top of the Air Jordan 1 hierarchy, both in legacy and style impact.
Where to Buy
Due to its historical significance, the Air Jordan 1 Retro High OG ‘Banned’ 2016 sells fast and rarely restocks. You can still score a pair through these trusted platforms:
- TheenStyle – A go-to source for authentic, high-demand Air Jordans
- StockX – Verified resell marketplace with transparent price tracking
- GOAT – Large inventory of rare sneakers with buyer protection
Search using style code 555088-001 to find the exact model.
Final Verdict
The Air Jordan 1 ‘Banned’ 2016 is more than just a sneaker—it’s the cornerstone of modern sneaker culture. With premium leather, powerful storytelling, and unmatched cultural influence, it’s a must-have for anyone serious about style, history, or hoops.
Bold. Defiant. Legendary.
If you’re only going to own one pair of Air Jordans, make it the Banned 1s.