Air Jordan 1 Retro Low OG ‘Banned’ 2026 Release Date HQ6998-001

One of the most premium versions of Michael Jordan’s first signature sneaker is reportedly set to return in low-top form. 

According to a new leak shared by @zsneakerheadz, Sneaker Files and Sneaker Market Romania, the Air Jordan 1 Retro Low OG will be released summer 2026 in the Air Jordan 1’s elusive “Banned” form. 

While often used as a catchall nickname for any black-and-red Jordan 1s, Jordan Brand’s original “Banned” concept dates back to 2011 when a limited-edition run of Jordan’s first sneaker was released exclusively from outlets. Playing up the (so-called) banned status of the original 1985 Jordan 1, the shoe was launched at factory stores without a typical release announcement, but that didn’t stop fans from queuing up at Nike outlets nationwide. 

Beyond the unique drop method, what made the ’11 Banned Air Jordan 1 so special was its premium quality and attention to detail. The shoe used high-grade leathers which typically weren’t seen on Air Jordan 1s of that era and featured subtle banned-inspired details such as tonal letter Xs printed on the heels. Even the inside of the shoe featured special details and callouts, making it a particularly high-regarded version of the black-and-red sneaker.

Now, 15 years later, the coveted Banned Air Jordan 1 is expected to live on in low-top form. According to early information, the new pair will feature the same “X” stamps and will come with special packaging. 

Another new Air Jordan 1 Retro Low style of note is the upcoming three-way collaboration with Travis Scott and Hiroshi Fujiwara’s Fragment Design brand. Pairs of that sneaker were gifted Friday to Jordan Brand family members during its Board of Governors event in Greece. 

The upcoming Air Jordan 1 Retro Low OG Banned has a full colorway of Black/Black/Varsity Red/Summit White and a style code of HQ6998-001. Retail pricing has not been confirmed, but readers can expect the pair to launch from Nike’s SNKRS app and select Jordan Brand retailers during summer ’26. In-hand images aren’t yet available, but the high-top ’11 iteration is featured here courtesy of GOAT.