In the ever-evolving world of sneakers, the iconic Jordan brand continues to make waves with its innovative designs and rich history. While the spotlight often shines on the most hyped releases, there are hidden gems that deserve recognition for their unique aesthetics and the stories they carry - even though these pairs were released years prior.
Now that we have some space to let these Jordan sneakers breathe, we can now appreciate them more and see how well they've aged in 2024.
This year, we take a closer look at the top 6 underrated Jordans, each bringing its distinctive flair to the sneaker culture. These are the Jordan 4s and Jordan 1s that we believe are very underrated right now.
1. Jordan 4 'Red Cement' (2023)
Jordan 4s are currently seeing a resurgence in sneaker culture. The good thing though is that they're still exclusive and only worn by those in the know, compared to certain other silhouettes that are more saturated and worn everywhere. This means we think Jordan 4s overall are underrated. Our first underrated Jordans are the Jordan 4 'Red Cements'.
The Jordan 4 'Red Cement' is a masterful blend of boldness and heritage. Drawing inspiration from the classic 'Cement' colorway, this sneaker adds a daring twist with its vibrant red accents. The sneaker's nubuck upper, matched with the iconic cement print, creates a visual contrast that is both striking and sophisticated. Despite its eye-catching design, the 'Red Cement' has flown under the radar, making it a must-have for collectors looking to make a statement.
2. Jordan 4 'Seafoam' W (2023)
We love our Jordan 4s here at PUSHAS, and so our next underrated Jordan sneaker is also a Jordan 4. The Jordan 4 'Seafoam' is a breath of fresh air in the Jordan lineup. Its understated elegance is encapsulated in the soothing seafoam green hue, reminiscent of tranquil ocean waters.
The premium leather upper, combined with subtle grey and white accents, embodies a sense of calm and sophistication. This sneaker is not just a footwear choice but a lifestyle statement, perfect for those who appreciate the finer details in life. While they're a Women's make, the colourway is unisex so we do recommend men to cop these as well.
3. Jordan 1 Low 'Bred Toe' (2021)
Our next underrated sneaker is a Jordan 1. Specifically, a Jordan 1 low. We believe these are underrated as the market price for him are very reasonable (dare we say cheap) for what they are. Pairs on PUSHAS at the time of this blog are priced from A$145 which we think is insane. We're talking about the highly underrated Jordan 1 Low 'Bred Toes'.
The Jordan 1 Low 'Bred Toe' brings an iconic colorway to a silhouette that often goes unnoticed. This sneaker preserves the DNA of the legendary 'Bred' color scheme, with a twist on the toe box that features a harmonious blend of black and red. The low-top design offers versatility and comfort, making it a practical choice for everyday wear. Its understated appeal makes the 'Bred Toe' an underrated classic in the Jordan 1 family.
The good news is you can cop these in both Mens sizes or Grade School sizes.
4. Jordan 1 'UNC Toe' (2023)
The next underrated sneaker is a Jordan 1 High. The Jordan 1 'UNC Toe' released in 2023 didn't get much fanfare when it released. But now that we have had time to process it, they're a fire pair which we believe belong in all sneaker rotations.
Paying homage to Michael Jordan's alma mater, the Jordan 1 'UNC Toe' features a charming combination of University of North Carolina blue and crisp white. The sneaker's clean and collegiate look is a nod to MJ's roots and basketball heritage. The 'UNC Toe' is a subtle standout, often overlooked next to its more vibrant counterparts, yet it holds its own with a timeless design that appeals to both sneaker enthusiasts and casual wearers alike.
With pairs starting from A$300 at the time this article is published, these are definitely a steal. We definitely believe the prices for these will undoubtedly shoot up over time so now is the perfect time to cop.
5. Jordan 1 Mid 'Light Smoke Grey Anthracite'
The next underrated Jordan is a Jordan 1 Mid. Mids get a bad wrap by sneaker snobs. Admittedly, even some members of our team don't like mids - opting for highs or lows instead. But this is what makes these sneakers so underrated and slept on. This is how you stand out and wear a pair that is fire without needed other people's validation. The Jordan 1 Mid 'Light Smoke Grey Anthracite' released in 2022 is that 'IDGAF' pair.
The Jordan 1 Mid 'Light Smoke Grey Anthracite' is the epitome of understated cool. Its muted color palette, featuring shades of grey and black, makes it a versatile addition to any wardrobe. The mid-top silhouette offers a perfect balance between style and comfort, making it suitable for various occasions. Despite its low-key appearance, this sneaker is a testament to the idea that sometimes, less is indeed more.
6. Jordan 1 'Chicago Lost and Found'
Last, but definitely not least, we have a pair that was likely the most popular Jordan pair released in 2022. With that said, it is a favourite amongst our team and we believe that they're actually still underrated. We don't see many people rocking them on the street. These are so iconic that these should be seen everywhere you go. But since they're not, we're going to say that the Jordan 1 'Chicago Lost and Founds' are 100% underrated.
The Jordan 1 'Chicago Lost and Found' pays homage to the iconic 'Chicago' colorway with a twist. This version tells a story of rediscovery, featuring a distressed look that gives it a vintage charm. The sneaker's weathered aesthetic, combined with its rich history, makes it a conversation starter. Although it may not receive the same attention as its pristine counterparts, the 'Chicago Lost and Found' is a hidden treasure for those who appreciate the beauty in imperfection.
You can cop Men sizing and Grade School sizing available depending on your fit.
Conclusion
In the world of Jordans, where hype often overshadows substance, these six sneakers stand out for their unique characteristics and the stories they tell. The Jordan 4 'Red Cement', Jordan 4 'Seafoam', Jordan 1 Low 'Bred Toe', Jordan 1 'UNC Toe', Jordan 1 Mid 'Light Smoke Grey Anthracite', and Jordan 1 'Chicago Lost and Found' are not just footwear; they are wearable pieces of art that deserve a spotlight in 2024.
Whether you're a sneakerhead or just someone who appreciates fine design, these underrated Jordans are worth adding to your collection.
