Over the years, this classic silhouette has undergone various transformations to cater to different lifestyles and activities. Maybe it’s our innate nostalgia or love for something that can age beautifully, but the Air Jordan 1 will forever be iconic. That’s probably why Nike made a Golf version of it. Now what is the difference between the two pairs anyway? At first sight, it’s hard to tell, and don’t worry, that’s JB’s intention. So today, we’re gonna settle the Jordan 1 Low vs Jordan 1 Low Golf debate once and for all. Shall we?
Jordan 1 Low vs Jordan 1 Low Golf – The Breakdown
History – We All Gotta Start Somewhere
Air Jordan 1 Low’s history dates back to its original release in the mid-1980s. It was initially designed as a basketball shoe along with the high-tops. Over time, it evolved from a sports shoe to a symbol of streetwear fashion, making its mark in the world of sneakers. It’s this silhouette in all of its cuts that were the origin of the Air Jordan legacy!
Air Jordan 1 Low Golf is a more recent adaptation of the iconic sneaker. It dropped in 2019 to cater to golf enthusiasts who wanted to hit some golf balls in style. This golf-specific version keeps the essence of the OG design while but adds practical elements for the sport. So, when it comes to Jordan 1 Low vs Jordan 1 Low Golf, the OGs will always prevail with their history.
Design – Minimal Differences Are a Sign of a Good Shoe!
Both shoes share the same DNA in terms of design, featuring the classic Jordan 1 silhouette in low-top. That includes the iconic Swoosh logo and the familiar Air Jordan wing logo on the heel. The only visible differences are the position of the wings logo and the tongue logo! And let’s not forget the outsole, but we’ll get all technical later.
Comfort
The Jordan 1 Low offers standard cushioning suitable for everyday wear. It provides a comfortable fit for walking around the city or going about daily activities. In other words, it’s a lifestyle shoe through and through! Meanwhile, the Jordan 1 Low Golf offers extra comfort for golfers, specifically in the heel padding part. It often includes additional cushioning to provide support during long rounds on the course. This ensures that golfers can focus on their swing without discomfort.
Traction and Grip
The Jordan 1 Low vs Jordan 1 Low Golf discussion heats up when it comes to the outsole. Traction is a critical factor in golf shoes, and it’s where the Air Jordan 1 Low Golf shines. This specialized version features a golf-specific outsole with soft spikes. These spikes offer excellent grip on the turf so golfers can maintain their balance and power through their swings. In contrast, the classic Jordan 1 Low is equipped with a rubber outsole designed for street use. While it provides traction on your everyday use surfaces, it’s not a good fit for golfing.
Materials
The Air Jordan 1 Low can come in several colorways and materials, ranging from traditional leather to suede and canvas. This variety allows wearers to choose a style that suits their personal preferences! On the other hand, Jordan 1 Low Golf typically uses golf-specific materials. Many iterations of this shoe feature waterproof or water-resistant materials to keep feet dry during early morning rounds when the grass is dewy. This practical feature adds a layer of functionality to the shoe. So if you don’t like winterized Js, Golf Js are a good alternative.
Versatility
Jordan 1 Low’s ability to complement a wide range of outfits is why the silhouette is still popular 40 years later. It’s perfect for day-to-day fits, and even for suiting up. All you gotta do is simply add a personal touch by styling them right. The Jordan 1 Low Golf version can be worn casually, but it’s more niche thanks to the spiky-ish outsole. It’s the go-to choice for golfers but may not be as adaptable to everyday fashion as the standard AJ1 Low.
Which One to Choose: Golf Jordans or the OGs?
The AJ1 Low, with its street-smart style and versatility, is like your trusty, everyday companion. It’s the sneaker you grab without a second thought, knowing it’ll always elevate your look effortlessly. Meanwhile, the AJ1 Low Golf is the specialized tool in your kit, designed for that precise moment when you step onto the golf course. It’s the caddy that ensures your swing is smooth, your stance is steady, and your style is on point. Gotta thank MJ for his love for golf that led to these babies!
Finally, the best way to settle the Jordan 1 Low vs Jordan 1 Low Golf debate is to try both. And the best chance to do that is to compare almost two similar pairs! For example, you can try the Travis Scott Jordan 1 Low Reverse Mocha as a lifestyle pair. And, for the golf version, Travis Scott’s upcoming Olive AJ1 Low. These babies are dropping really soon, and here’s everything you should know about it and how to cop it! Godspeed.
