Jalen Hurts Wears Unbannable Jordan 1 High Bred Cleats for Super Bowl 59

Throughout the 2024 NFL season, Jalen Hurts, who signed with Jordan Brand back in 2023, wore plenty of Air Jordan Retro cleats. Channeling the spirit of Michael Jordan, Hurts has decided to rock a pair of Air Jordan 1 High cleats in the Bred colorway, the same pair “banned” by the NBA back in 1984.

While the actual story is that the NBA fined MJ for wearing a pair of black and red Nike Air Ships, the “banned” story continues to emerge as one of Jordan Brand and Nike’s greatest marketing efforts. The label has leaned into this myth for the upcoming Air Jordan 1 High ‘85 Bred release, which is the most accurate recreation of the Air Jordan 1 High in its 1985 shape to date and the first time the Bred rendition has appeared on the ‘85 cut. Hurts version of the pair also features a black bar that partially covers the Swoosh on the midfoot and the text “Unbannable” back on the heel.

Another connecting point between MJ’s “banned” shoes and Hurts came during Week 15 when he sported a mismatched pair of Air Jordan 11 cleats, which violated the NFL's uniform policy. Jordan Brand ended up paying the fine for Hurts, stating, “We’re paying the fine. You can’t ban greatness.” If Hurts decided to wear the pair, he would have been fined as the black and red Air Jordan 1 does not fit into the NFL’s uniform policy, which states, “A player may wear shoes that are black, white, or any Constitutional team color, or any combination of black, white, and a Constitutional team color.” However, he ended up switching to a pair of Air Jordan 11 Cleats before the game started.

“The standard of greatness set by Michael Jordan transcends the basketball court, inspiring a new generation of athletes who refuse to accept limits,” said Jordan Brand in a press release. “Hurts embodies this spirit as he takes the field, proving that whether on your feet, cleats, or jersey, the Jumpman represents one clear message: Greatness is the expectation.”

Jalen has also been featured prominently in the “Unbannable” marketing campaign from Jordan Brand on social media, with the star QB present in videos and photos that are plastered across JB’s Instagram account. Download the Sole Retriever mobile app for more updates on the latest happenings in the sneaker and streetwear world.

Nicholas Vlahos

Sneakerhead from South Florida who turned his passion into a career. When not writing for Sole Retriever, I enjoy watching films and discovering music. Follow me on Letterboxd @nickvlah For tips, reviews, or any shoes in a size 13, email nick@soleretriever.com