Obsidian Dreams: Why the Air Jordan 1 Low OG “UNC” Has Me Counting Down Days

You know that feeling when you find out your favorite restaurant is bringing back a limited-time menu item you’ve been craving? That’s exactly how I felt when I heard about the upcoming Air Jordan 1 Low OG “Obsidian UNC” release. I literally spilled my morning coffee all over my desk calendar when the news hit my inbox!

Let’s back up a bit. I’ve been collecting sneakers since my college days, when my roommate’s obsession with Jordans infected me like a happy virus. My first pair—some beat-up Jordan 5s I found at a thrift store—started what my wife now calls “the expensive shelf problem” in our hallway closet.

The Carolina Blue Connection

So here’s the scoop: Jordan Brand is blessing us with the Air Jordan 1 Low OG “Obsidian UNC” on March 22, 2025, as part of their Spring collection. Yeah, that’s still a ways off, but trust me, it’s gonna be worth the wait.

I’ve always had a soft spot for the UNC colorways. There’s something about that University Blue that just hits different. Maybe it’s because I grew up watching old Michael Jordan footage on VHS tapes (showing my age here), or maybe it’s just because the color combo is absolutely fire. Either way, when you mix that Carolina blue with deep obsidian on a crisp sail base? Chef’s kiss, my friends.

Last summer, I wore my 2019 AJ1 High “Obsidian” pair to a family barbecue, and my nephew, who’s usually more interested in video games than footwear, actually stopped eating his hot dog mid-bite to ask about my shoes. That’s the power of a good UNC colorway!

What Makes This Drop Special?

From what I’ve seen, these lows are basically the little brother to the high-top version from 2019, which is fantastic news for anyone who missed out on those (or destroyed them like I nearly did mine in that unexpected summer downpour at the baseball game last year).

The shoe features a full leather upper that looks buttery smooth in the preview images. The combination of that deep navy obsidian with the UNC blue overlays sitting on top of an off-white sail base is just *chef’s kiss* perfect. I can already imagine how these will look broken in after a few wears—that leather’s gonna develop such a nice character.

And let’s talk about versatility. These are the kind of sneakers you can rock with jeans on a casual Friday or pair with shorts during those scorching summer days. The low-top silhouette makes them perfect for year-round wear, unlike some of my higher tops that feel like foot saunas come July.

The Practical Details

Alright, let’s get down to brass tacks. The Air Jordan 1 Low OG “Obsidian UNC” drops on March 22, 2025. I’ve already set about 17 calendar reminders because I am NOT missing this release.

They’ll be priced at $140 for adult sizes, which honestly feels like a steal considering what some sneakers are going for these days. (Remember when we thought $100 for shoes was expensive? Those were simpler times!)

The best part? They’re coming in full family sizing! This means I can finally match with my 8-year-old son, who’s recently decided that “dressing like Dad is cool.” I’m riding this wave while it lasts, folks, because I know in about three years he’ll be mortified to be seen with me.

You’ll be able to snag these at select retailers and on Nike.com. Based on past experiences with hyped releases, I’ll probably be sitting at my computer that morning with three devices open, desperately refreshing pages and questioning my life choices. It’s all part of the fun!

Why I’m Already Obsessed

There’s something nostalgic about UNC colorways that takes me back to watching basketball games with my dad on our old boxy TV. The slight static in the picture couldn’t dim the vibrance of that Carolina blue as MJ soared through the air. Those memories are priceless.

These shoes aren’t just sneakers; they’re time machines. And while I’m not usually one for getting overly sentimental about footwear (my wife would strongly disagree with this statement), there’s something special about lacing up a pair that connects you to basketball heritage.

Will I be able to dunk like Mike in these? Absolutely not. My vertical jump is embarrassing on a good day. But will I feel a little extra spring in my step? You bet.

So mark your calendars for March 22, 2025. Set those alarms. Prepare your credit cards. The Air Jordan 1 Low OG “Obsidian UNC” is coming, and if you’re anything like me, you’re already figuring out which current pair in your collection you’ll tell yourself you’re replacing to justify the purchase.

Anyone else counting down the days, or is it just me and my sneaker problem? Drop a comment below!