University Blue Jordans: A History of Heritage and Hype
The University Blue colorway on Air Jordans is more than just a pretty shade of blue; it's a tangible link to Michael Jordan's formative years at the University of North Carolina (UNC) and a recurring motif throughout his illustrious career. This article explores the history of this iconic colorway, its significance, and some of the most coveted University Blue Air Jordan releases.
The Origins of University Blue
Michael Jordan's connection to the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is well-documented. Before his professional career, Jordan played for the UNC Tar Heels, where he honed his skills and began his ascent to basketball stardom. The university's signature color, a shade of blue now known as "Carolina Blue" (Pantone 542), became deeply associated with Jordan's early success.
While "Carolina Blue" is the official color of UNC, Nike uses "University Blue" on its Air Jordan releases. This subtle difference in name, and perhaps hue, may be attributed to trademark considerations. The University of North Carolina has long associated itself with a specific shade of blue. The exact shade of blue, long known as Carolina Blue, however, has varied over the years, until relatively recently. In 2015, the University adopted a single shade of blue - Pantone 542 - as the official Carolina Blue, which is to be used in at least 10% of all designs. It is possible that Nike, with its long history of collaboration with UNC, came to an agreement with the university to use a similar but distinct color, "University Blue," and name, in exchange for royalties or other considerations. This tactic is commonly used across brands to cross-promote and sell products that are beneficial to both parties.
The First Appearance: Air Jordan 1 "UNC"
In 1985, just a year after Nike signed Jordan, a whopping 15 Air Jordan 1 colorways sprang into existence. Among them were the aforementioned “Chicago” and “Bred”, as well as other well-loved colorways such as the “Black Toe”, “Royal”, “Shadow”, and of course, “UNC”. The "UNC" colorway of the Air Jordan 1 was among the initial releases, solidifying the connection between Jordan's brand and his alma mater. Though Jordan never wore the OG AJ1 “UNC” on-court-that privilege was reserved for the AJ1 “Chicago”-the blue-and-white colorway was highly sought after all the same. The shoe featured a white leather base with University Blue accents on the overlays, collar, and outsole. This color blocking became a signature element of the "UNC" theme, and it has been reinterpreted on numerous Air Jordan models over the years.
A Constant Presence: University Blue Through the Years
The University Blue colorway has been a recurring theme in the Air Jordan line, appearing on various models and in different iterations. These releases serve as a constant reminder of Jordan's roots and his enduring connection to the University of North Carolina.
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Air Jordan 9 Retro "Powder Blue"
When this original Air Jordan 9 colorway was first retroed in 2010, Jordan Brand changed the shade of blue from dark powder blue to university blue. As a result, the 2010 release is considered a “University Blue” colorway, while the upcoming 2024 re-release will go back to its original “Powder Blue” roots.
Air Jordan 11 "Columbia/Legend Blue"
Interestingly, the Air Jordan 11 “Columbia” is one of the few UNC-themed Air Jordans that the man himself actually wore on-court. Of course, he did this not during a Bulls game (that would be blasphemy), but rather while playing for the Eastern Conference in the 1996 NBA All-Star Game. The AJ11 “Columbia” is also famous for another international television appearance, not in basketball, but in comedy. In May 1996, “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air” aired its emotional, bittersweet finale episode to close off a legendary six season run, and Will Smith can be seen rocking “Columbia”s in the final scene. To commemorate the shoe’s legendary status, the “Columbia” has received multiple retros over the years, first in 2001, and later in 2014 with an updated name, “Legend Blue”.
Off-White x Air Jordan 1 "UNC"
Just a year after fashion genius Virgil Abloh dropped the legendary Off-White x Air Jordan 1 Retro High “Chicago” as part of his “The Ten” collection, he gave the same treatment to the Air Jordan 1 “UNC”. The result, which dropped in 2018, was just as eye-catching as his previous work-the sneaker looked like a version of the original design that was deconstructed and recreated by hand.
Top University Blue Air Jordans
With the release of the highly anticipated Air Jordan 1 Retro High OG “University Blue Toe,” sneakerheads continue to seek out the best examples of this iconic color scheme. Here's a look at some of the most popular University Blue Air Jordans:
- Air Jordan 11 Retro "Pantone": In 2010, Jordan Brand created a special set of Air Jordans for the “Pantone 284” Collection. Featuring Air Jordans 1 thru 25 (aka AJ 2010), this series re-imagined Michael Jordan’s twenty-five signature sneakers in a “University Blue” theme. Each pair draws inspiration from “The Love of the Game.” They feature a university blue-based upper, white and black accents, and laser print detailing. The collection was made for display purposes only and was not released at retail. A few pairs from this collection did go on to release, however, sans the laser print detailing. This included the Air Jordan 7 Retro and the Air Jordan 9 Retro in both high and low-top. In addition, an Air Jordan 11 Retro “Pantone” dropped as one of two sneakers in the Air Jordan Ultimate Gift Of Flight Pack. Released in December 2014 for $500, the Air Jordan Ultimate Gift of Flight Pack featured the Air Jordan 11 Retro “Pantone” alongside a UNC-themed colorway of the Air Jordan 29 (XX9). The hype surrounding the Air Jordan 11 Retro “Pantone” when it was released in 2014 was real, making it a highly sought-after release.
- Air Jordan 4 Retro "UNC": Taking inspiration from the player-exclusive pair made for the North Carolina Tar Heels, the Air Jordan 4 Retro “UNC” features a slightly altered look for its public release. While still featuring a suede-based university blue-colored upper, the Air Jordan 4 Retro “UNC” combines classic cement grey detailing with black accents. A unique tongue tag was also designed exclusively for this pair of Air Jordan 4s, furthering the UNC theme.
- Air Jordan 1 Retro High OG "University Blue Toe": This pair brings an all-new twist on the famous white and university blue-themed Air Jordan 1. Featuring “Black Toe” color blocking, the Air Jordan 1 Retro High OG “UNC Toe” mimics the Air Jordan 1 Retro High OG “Obsidian University Blue.” The only differences between the two are obsidian being swapped for black and sail for white.
- Air Jordan 9 Retro "Powder Blue": As one of the best Air Jordans ever, the one-time “University Blue” iteration of the Air Jordan 9 Retro “Powder Blue” cannot be overlooked. When this original Air Jordan 9 colorway was first retroed in 2010, Jordan Brand changed the shade of blue from dark powder blue to university blue. As a result, the 2010 release is considered a “University Blue” colorway, while the upcoming 2024 re-release will go back to its original “Powder Blue” roots.
- Air Jordan 1 Retro High OG "University Blue": With the Air Jordan 1 hype still at an all-time high, Jordan Brand released a new “UNC” iteration in March 2021. Dubbed the “University Blue” edition, this Air Jordan 1 Retro High OG features white leather underlays paired with university blue suede overlays for a clean look. Black accents including the Swoosh and Wings logos, laces, and collar perfectly break up the theme. This pair was an instant classic and garnered high resale prices after immediately selling out.
- Air Jordan 5 Retro "UNC": Following in the footsteps of the Air Jordan 3, Air Jordan 4, and Air Jordan 6, the Air Jordan 5 Retro got a “UNC” makeover in March 2023. Made to pay homage to Michael Jordan’s alma mater, the Air Jordan 5 Retro “UNC” features a university blue-based suede upper complemented by black and white accents. Additional details include 3M reflective detailing on the tongue, “Heart” and “Sole” written on the inside tongue patches, respectively, and a custom patch on the back heels (also seen on the Air Jordan 6 Retro “UNC”). Icy blue translucent hits on the outsole complete the look.
- Air Jordan 12 Retro "Nubuck": When the Air Jordan 12 was first retroed in 2003, the “Flu Game” pair kicked things off, with an all-new “Flint Grey” pair closing out the year. The buzz was significant for this Air Jordan 12, quickly catapulting it to one of the best colorways. It was so sought after that Jordan Brand re-released it in stores in 2009 during the second retro run of the Air Jordan 12.
- Air Jordan 14 Retro "Black University Blue": Drawing inspiration from the Air Jordan 12 Retro “Nubuck,” the Air Jordan 14 Retro “Black University Blue” features a similar design. It sports a black-based suede upper, university blue accents, and small hits of metallic silver for an added pop. The end result re-imagines what a road-themed Air Jordan 14 “UNC” PE would look like. Jordan Brand hit on all cylinders with this all-new colorway in January 2006.
- Air Jordan 11 Retro Low "UNC": This Air Jordan 11 Retro Low was originally known as “Columbia” when it debuted in April 2001. It was later re-released in 2017 and given a new nickname of “UNC.” That’s not the only thing that changed, either. Jordan Brand swapped the previous shade of Columbia Blue seen on the initial pair for a lighter University Blue tone, hence the name change. As a result, the 2017 release is a true “University Blue” theme, which makes it fitting for this list.
- Air Jordan 1 Retro High OG "Obsidian University Blue": During the beginning of the 2019 Air Jordan 1 craze driven by Travis Scott’s Air Jordan 1 Retro High OG “Mocha,” Jordan Brand also released some underrated gems. One such pair was the Air Jordan 1 Retro High OG “Obsidian University Blue.” Similar in design to the coveted Air Jordan 1 Retro High OG “Shattered Backboard,” this UNC-inspired AJ 1 features “Black Toe” color blocking with premium leather. Instead of black and red (or orange on the SBB), this pair combines obsidian and university blue, complemented by sail accents. While it was slept on upon release,this pair became a must-have for Air Jordan 1 fanatics everywhere within a few months.
The Enduring Appeal
The University Blue colorway continues to resonate with sneaker enthusiasts for several reasons:
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- Connection to Michael Jordan's Legacy: The colorway represents a crucial chapter in Jordan's life and career, reminding fans of his early days and his enduring success. Michael Jordan has never been quiet about his love for his alma mater, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. In his own words, “I never thought I’d be able to play at a Division I school… It really shocked me when North Carolina started recruiting me.” He’s made his gratitude to the institution clear time and time again, and many would argue hat at this point he has helped UNC even more than the school helped him.
- Clean and Versatile Aesthetic: The combination of white and University Blue is visually appealing and easy to style, making these sneakers a versatile addition to any wardrobe. Easy to style and ideal for the brighter days of spring, the Air Jordan 1 High University Blue isn’t one to miss.
- Nostalgia and Heritage: For many sneakerheads, the University Blue colorway evokes a sense of nostalgia, harking back to the early days of Air Jordan and the cultural impact of the brand.
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