Air Jordan 1 “Royal” 2026 — The Original Colorway Returns

One of the original Air Jordan 1 colorways is back in its familiar black-and-blue combination.

Some sneakers don’t need much explaining. The Air Jordan 1 “Royal” is one of them.

First introduced in 1985, the Royal colorway helped establish the Air Jordan 1 as something that could stand apart from traditional basketball team colors. More than four decades later, Jordan Brand is bringing it back.

Keeping the Original Look

The upcoming Air Jordan 1 High OG “Royal” stays close to the familiar formula. Black leather provides the foundation, while Game Royal brings color to the toe, heel, ankle panels and Swoosh. A white midsole breaks up the darker upper, giving the shoe the contrast that has made this colorway recognizable for generations.

The design remains straightforward, and that’s part of its appeal.

A Classic Construction

The shoe features a premium leather upper, a high collar and perforations across the toe. Underfoot, Nike Air cushioning sits inside a foam midsole, while a rubber outsole provides traction.

There isn’t a major technology story here. This release is about preserving one of the designs that helped establish Jordan Brand.

An original colorway returning without needing to reinvent itself.

Shervarino Take

I’ve always appreciated when Jordan Brand brings back an original colorway without trying to reinvent it.

The Royal is a good example. Black and blue work naturally together, and the white midsole gives the shoe just enough contrast.

For collectors who appreciate the history of the Air Jordan line, there’s something satisfying about seeing an original colorway return in a familiar form.