First Look at the Air Jordan 1 Mid 'X-Ray': Jumpman’s Bread and Butter Returns

The Air Jordan 1 Mid continues to be Jumpman’s bread and butter, with the latest edition, the Air Jordan 1 Mid “X-Ray,” drawing inspiration from Michael Jordan’s 1985 foot injury. This unique sneaker features x-ray graphics and bold design elements, making it a must-have for fans.

The Air Jordan 1 Mid 'X-Ray' Pays Tribute to Michael Jordan's 1985 Foot Injury with Bold Design

Jordan Brand is gearing up to launch an Air Jordan 1 Mid that resembles the recently released Nike Kobe 5 “X-Ray.” According to Sneaker News, this latest drop, however, holds a more profound significance, paying tribute to one of Michael Jordan's most challenging injuries.

In October 1985, just days into his second NBA season, Michael Jordan fractured the navicular bone in his left foot, sidelining him for nearly the entire season. He returned for the final fifteen games with strict minutes restrictions, but despite the setback, Jordan delivered an iconic 63-point performance in the playoffs against the eventual champions. Larry Bird said, "I think it’s just God disguised as Michael Jordan."

Inspired by Jordan’s 1986 foot injury, the Air Jordan 1 Mid showcases x-ray images of a foot across the toe-box, mid-foot, and ankle collar. Skeleton graphics of a foot also appear on the outsole through translucent bottoms and on the insole, accompanied by the message, "Even the best get hurt." The design is completed with bright crimson tongue labels, an oversized "23" on the ankle, and black leather detailing on the toe guard, ankle collar, and heel.

Although an official release date has yet to be confirmed, this kids-only Air Jordan 1 Mid could drop during the 2024 holiday season, making it a likely contender for many holiday wish lists.

The Air Jordan 1 Mid 'Bread and Butter' Combines Playful Design with Timeless Sneaker Appeal

Few sneakers can match the cultural and commercial power of the Air Jordan 1. Since its 2013 relaunch featuring the classic "Nike Air" branding on the tongue, the Air Jordan 1 has generated billions in revenue across all its variations, from the iconic Retro High OG to the more accessible Mid and Low models. Whether loyal to the original colorways or prefer the more widely available trims, the Air Jordan 1 is the most popular sneaker globally.

This upcoming Air Jordan 1 exemplifies the model’s significance to the Jordan Brand. Despite the Retro High OG losing some favor among sneakerheads, the Mid and Low styles remain best-sellers, favored as casual, everyday retro sneakers. The Air Jordan 1 Hi ’85, in particular, is expected to be among the most coveted releases in the highly anticipated 2025 Jordan lineup.

For this kids-only release, Jordan Brand introduces a playful twist. The sneaker features a unique tongue label reading "Bread, Butter, and Sole," styled like packaging for a loaf of bread. The design includes a hang tag resembling a slice of bread with a pad of butter, while the insoles depict the surface of toasted bread.

The Air Jordan 1 Mid “Bread And Butter” will launch in sizes for Little Kids and Toddlers. Stay tuned for updates on release dates and additional sizing information.