You’re scrolling through sneaker resale sites, and every pair of Air Jordan 1s you want seems to cost a small fortune. You start wondering: “Did Nike stop making these? Am I doomed to pay triple retail for a shoe that’s been around since 1985?” It’s a common frustration, especially if you’re new to the sneaker game or just trying to cop a classic colorway without breaking the bank. The good news is, Nike hasn’t abandoned the Air Jordan 1—far from it. But the answer is a bit more nuanced than a simple yes or no, and understanding how the production works can save you both money and headache.

The Short Answer: Yes, Nike Still Makes Air Jordan 1s

Let’s get the elephant out of the room: Nike, through its Jordan Brand division, absolutely still manufactures Air Jordan 1s. In fact, they produce them in massive quantities every year. But here’s where it gets tricky—they don’t make every colorway all the time. Think of it like a restaurant that always has a signature dish but changes the specials weekly. The core models, like the Air Jordan 1 High OG, are in constant rotation, but specific releases are often limited, seasonal, or tied to anniversaries. So when you see a pair from 2015 going for $1,000, it’s not because Nike stopped making them—it’s because that particular batch was produced in small numbers and hasn’t been re-released.

The Core Principle: Retros vs. General Releases

To really get why you can still buy Air Jordan 1s new from Nike but can’t find your favorite colorway, you need to understand two key production categories: Retros and General Releases (GRs). Retros are re-issues of original colorways from the 1980s and 1990s, often with premium materials and packaging. These are the ones that cause the most hype—think “Chicago,” “Bred,” or “Royal.” Nike produces these in limited runs, usually to celebrate anniversaries or collaborations, and they sell out almost instantly. General Releases, on the other hand, are new colorways or lower-priced versions (like the Air Jordan 1 Mid or Low) that are produced year-round. These are widely available at retail stores and online, often for months after launch. So, Nike is making Air Jordan 1s every single day—just not the specific ones you might be hunting for.

Why the Confusion? The “They Don’t Make Them Anymore” Myth

The myth that Nike stopped making Air Jordan 1s stems from a few factors. First, the sneaker resale market creates artificial scarcity. When a hyped colorway drops, bots and resellers grab them within minutes, making it seem like the shoe is extinct. Second, Nike deliberately limits production of OG silhouettes to maintain exclusivity and brand value. If they flooded the market with “Chicago” 1s, the shoe would lose its cultural cachet. Third, production cycles change. A colorway released in 2018 might not be scheduled for a re-release until 2025 or later. So when you search for a specific model from three years ago and see only resale listings, it’s easy to assume Nike stopped making the entire line. In reality, they’re just focusing on newer iterations.

What Models Are Currently in Production?

As of now, Nike produces several Air Jordan 1 variants, each with different availability. The Air Jordan 1 High OG is the flagship, but it’s released in limited drops—usually a few colorways per month. The Air Jordan 1 Mid is the most accessible, available in dozens of colorways at retailers like Foot Locker, Nike’s website, and even department stores. The Air Jordan 1 Low is also in constant production, popular for casual wear. Additionally, Nike occasionally releases “Heritage” or “Rebellionaire” versions that tweak the design while keeping the iconic silhouette. So if you’re willing to explore beyond the OG colorways, you can easily buy a brand-new pair from Nike right now.

Practical Tips for Buying Air Jordan 1s Today

Now that you know Nike is still making them, here’s how to actually get a pair without overpaying or losing sleep over a drop. First, decide what you want. If you’re after a classic colorway like “Bred” or “Chicago,” you’ll need to be patient and strategic. Follow sneaker release calendars (like those on Nike’s SNKRS app) and set notifications for restocks. Be prepared to enter raffles or use a bot if you’re serious about limited drops. For more affordable options, look at the Air Jordan 1 Mid or Low lines. These are often overlooked by hypebeasts, so you can find them at retail price or even on sale. Check sites like Nike.com, Finish Line, or JD Sports for new colorways that drop regularly. Another tip: buy off-season. Summer releases of Air Jordan 1s often sit longer than winter drops, so you might snag a deal in July.

Configuration Advice: Which Air Jordan 1 Should You Buy?

If you’re new to the Air Jordan 1 game, here’s a quick buying guide based on your needs. For collectors or die-hard fans, invest in the Air Jordan 1 High OG in a classic colorway. Expect to pay retail ($170–$190) if you’re lucky, or resale ($300–$1,000+) if you’re patient. For everyday wear, the Air Jordan 1 Mid is your best bet. It has the same iconic look but with a slightly different cut and lower price point ($110–$130). The quality is still great, and you can find tons of colorways. For summer or casual style, the Air Jordan 1 Low is lightweight and versatile, usually retailing for $90–$110. Avoid buying from unauthorized resellers unless you’re familiar with authentication—stick to Nike, Foot Locker, or reputable boutiques. And remember, Nike restocks older colorways occasionally, so don’t give up if your dream pair is sold out. Set a price alert on resale sites and wait for a dip.

The Bottom Line

Nike hasn’t stopped making Air Jordan 1s, and they likely never will. The shoe is too iconic and too profitable. But the production model is designed to create excitement and exclusivity, which means you can’t just walk into a store and buy any colorway you want. The key is to understand the difference between limited retros and general releases, then tailor your buying strategy accordingly. Whether you’re a sneakerhead chasing grails or a casual fan looking for a stylish everyday shoe, there’s an Air Jordan 1 out there for you—you just have to know where to look. So next time you see a pair for $500 on StockX, remember: Nike is still making them. You might just need to wait for the next drop.