Nike Air Jordan 1 – 1984 Prototype – Big John

It’s not everyday that we get a look at a pair of kicks this old, rare or intriguing. What you are looking at is an early prototype for the Air Jordan 1 that was obviously changed quite a bit before releasing in the final form that we have come to know and love. This prototype sample features a number of glaring differences from the eventual retail version, most notably a significantly higher cut around the ankle, a completely different midsole and outsole and an alternate shape for the mudguard section of the toe as it makes its way up to the lower eyelet holes. Also of interest, you might be wondering about the “BIG JOHN” printing on the heel section of the ankle. Apparently, this sample was made up specially for Nike’s sales manager back in January of 1984, who went by the nickname of, you guessed it, Big John. Keep reading after the jump for a look at some more pics of this incredible sample including some side-by-side comparison shots with the actual OG Air Jordan 1 in the same colorway. Big thanks to zoopreme700 for the pics and the heads-up.