Jordan 1 vs Air Force 1: What’s the Difference?

The sneaker industry is worth about $78 billion and is estimated to reach over $100 billion by 2025.

While sneakers are a symbol of athleticism, they’ve recently become a part of fashion. Some of the sneakers that have made their mark as cultural commodities are the Air Jordans 1 and the Air Force 1.

Despite being two of Nike’s most iconic silhouettes, these sneakers differ in several ways. As a sneakerhead, you need to know the differences between the pair.

To help you get a better understanding of these two Nike trainers, we’ve put together this guide comparing Jordan 1 vs Air Force 1. Read on to find more.

Air Jordan 1 vs Air Force 1: History

Between Air Force vs Air Jordan, Air Force 1 was the first to arrive. They originally debuted in 1982 as the first basketball sneaker from Nike designed by Bruce Kilgore. This trainer featured Air technology for the first time.

However, these sneakers were discontinued entirely in 1984. They were then reintroduced in 1986. But they became more of a timeless fashion piece rather than a basketball shoe.

In 1985, Nike released the first Air Jordan 1 with Michael Jordan as the face of the sneaker. The Jordan 1s became more popular among basketball fans thanks to the rising star.

Air Jordan 1 vs Air Force 1: Design

Jordan 1 and Air Force 1 were originally designed as basketball shoes. As a result, the first profiles for both shoes were high-tops to offer added ankle support.

But while the Jordan 1 took on the black and red Chicago Bulls colors, the Air Force 1 stuck to a more simple white and grey design.

Although both shoes have released low-top variations, this variation has become more popular with the Air Force 1 to appeal to its more lifestyle-based audience.

On the other hand, the Jordan 1, mostly sticks to mid to high-tops to charm a more basketball-orientated market.

Air Jordan 1 vs Air Force 1: Sizing

When it comes to the sizing of Air Force 1 vs Air Jordans, these sneakers fit differently. While finding your true size in either sneaker is a safe bet, the feel on foot between AJ1s and AF1s is quite not the same.

Jordan 1s tend to have a snug narrower fit. Although newer releases of the model have some added width, the general feel is still the same. If you have a wide foot, you can go a half size up for a more comfy fit.

Meanwhile, the Air Force 1s have a roomier fit. This can make them feel loose on your feet, especially at true to size. For a more snug fit, you can go a half size down on Air Force 1s.

Air Jordan 1 vs Air Force 1: Comfort

Air Jordans 1s have an odd, narrow sizing that can make it quite uncomfortable. Older releases can make your feet feel cramped.

While newer AJ1 releases have some added room, the shoe doesn’t rank highly when it comes to comfort.

Walking around in your new AJ1s can be quite rough until they break in. Once the upper unstiffens and conforms to your foot, they can become a more cozy fit. You can also get a half size up to alleviate the break-in pain.

However, your sneaker may fit excessively long and crease more easily over time. If you are a fan of AJs and are looking for a comfortable, true-to-size, consider the Jordan 11 high.

On the other hand, Air Force 1s have a wider and taller fit with a rounder toe box compared to the AJ1s.

This makes them more comfortable. But it can make your feet look larger. If this is an issue for you, you can size down half a size.

Air Jordan 1 vs Air Force 1: Performance

The Air Jordan 1s excel in traction, making them one of the best basketball shoes. The flexible rubber and circle pattern allows for secure movement, ensuring you can easily run up and down the court or cut left and right on the court.

This sneaker also secures your ankle for extra protection.

Additionally, AJ1s have a swoosh design that protects your upper feet from any interior damage. They grab your feet and keep them in a solid position.

On the flip side, Air Force 1s are good for my everyday walking. You can wear them for more than six hours without feeling discomfort. Their quality cushioning will always save your feet.

While are not popular in sports, they offer a solid amount of cushion and comfort for your workout.

Jordan 1 vs Air Force 1: Price

When it comes to picking up your own pair of Air Force 1s or Jordan 1s, pricing is an important factor.

Although these shoes will cost you more than $80, the Air Jordan 1s tend to cost more. Since they are a kind of retro iconic sneakers, you may have to pay more to own them.

The range generally goes at max to about $500. What’s more, the price of Jordan 1s will vary depending on the different styles.

Meanwhile, the classic black and white Air Force 1s are cheaper than the Jordan 1s. But they offer variety in terms of price, color, and design. If you choose to customize the price may change.

Which Should You Buy: Air Force 1 vs Jordan 1?

Choosing between Jordan 1 vs Air Force 1 can be quite challenging since both have great qualities.

Making a choice comes down to your preferences and how you intend to use the sneakers.

For instance, if you’re looking for a basketball shoe, picking up a pair of Jordan 1s will be more beneficial as they have features that make them more suitable on the court.

For everyday wear, Air Force 1s are a nice choice thanks to their sheer versatility and simplicity.

Ultimately, the choice is yours. For more fashion posts, be sure to browse through our Lifestyle blogs.