There’s no disputing UNION’s influence within the sneaker scene because its 2023 releases seem to have paved the way for some of Jordan Brand’s own. After dropping a collaborative Air Jordan 1 Low KO at the start of the year, Jordan Brand is now looking to give the sneaker a new lease of life, lining up “Bred”, “Shadow” and “Kentucky” versions.

Easily one of the brand’s most controversial silhouettes, the choice to resurrect the model is an interesting one. The original idea behind the Air Jordan 1 KO is pretty unclear, with no one quite understanding what “KO” actually stood for either. Was it short for “Knock Out” - referencing the expected response to dropping the AJ1 at an accessible price point? Or was it more of a ‘Knockoff’ - its canvas build acting as an intentional way to cheapen the design, hence beating mass-market versions and bad fakes?

Either way, it's time to put the past behind it, as the Air Jordan 1 KO is well and truly back for 2023, albeit in the low-top version that was first introduced by UNION’s release. To kickstart the line-up, the sneaker appears in a stealthy black and grey “Shadow” make-up, as well as a more classic-looking blue and white “Kentucky” livery. As expected, a canvas build makes up the construction for both pairs, while Swooshes and heel tabs arrive in leather. KO branding then hits the heel, the Wings insignia boasting AJKO in an embroidered fashion.

Looking to add a pair to your collection? The mysterious model is available to cop now - just hit the links to get yours. In related news, why not check out the next UNION AJ1?