Let me explain something: when I say “all of a sudden” what I mean is that I’ve been following this sneaker trend foam up for a while now and it’s conclusively reached a point where it feels like everyone is wearing them. Well, not every single person, but rather that it feels quite relevant. 

So with that, the sneakers that seem to be having a second in vogue right now are none other than Nike’s Air Jordan 1. Just like the many of the popular sneakers of the moment (we’re looking at you, Reebok and New Balance), these iconic high-top kicks are far from new—in fact, their history goes back to 1985 and, of course, their namesake Michael Jordan. 

So why are they popular again now? Their flat-soled, high-top shape lends a retro appeal that feels especially cool right now, but more importantly,—and fashion girls have been all over them. 

Some lace them up for weekly grocery runs; others, for actual running. And while we can’t imagine a better pairing for floaty culottes and midi skirts, you might prefer them as the finishing touch to all things structured denim. Whatever your approach, this year’s crop of newcomers—which range from techy to trend-forward—sets you up nicely for the year ahead. (Remember, 2021 is a marathon, not a sprint.)