In 2018 Union Los Angeles, a boutique highlighting imported streetwear from Japan, launched their first sneaker in collaboration with Nike and Jordan brand. This release was the start of a very successful partnership between all who now have a handful of sneakers together, so keep reading to see how we rank them!
Union LA x Jordan 1 ‘Storm Blue’
In first place, one of the OG’s designed to evoke the look and feel of ‘your old favourite pair of shoes’, Storm Blue Jordan 1. On this pair the white midsole is treated to pre-yellowing, while the white and blue leather upper is topped with a red and black collar. The shoe is finished with zig-zag yellow stitching for a DIY look and feel.
Union LA x Jordan 1 ‘Black Toe’
Staying on theme of the OG’s, and again taking inspiration from thrifting and DIY culture the Jordan 1 Black Toe is a new take on the sneaker that started it all aka the Chicago.
In addition to a pre-yellowed midsole for the vintage aesthetic, again a mismatched collar is attached to the rest of the upper with zigzag stitching giving the impression of makeshift design.
Union LA x Jordan 4 ‘Guava Ice’
The sequel to the 2018 release, the ‘Guava Ice’ delivers a vibrant take on the classic silhouette. The upper combines soft pink suede with breathable mesh on the collar and toe box. Semi-translucent TPU wings provide structural support, taking cues from an original Tinker Hatfield sketch.
Additional branding hits include a yellow Union tab on the lateral quarter panel, Nike Air on the back heel and a woven Air Jordan tag atop the folded-over tongue.
This shoe is definitely a staple for summer reminding anyone that looks at it of ice cream.
Union LA x Nike Dunk Low ‘Royal’
Next up we have the perfect pair to catch flights in… showcasing a combination of colours inspired by the Los Angeles’ NBA franchise and part of the Passport Pack, this dunk low features bright yellow stitching while hints of purple in the inner lining, tongue and sole make it even more striking.
There’s also the addition of a zesty orange “UN/LA” tag.
Union LA x Jordan 2 ‘Grey Fog’
Lastly we have a modern take on the legacy silhouette originally released in 1986.
Chris Gibbs and the Union crew dress the sneaker in a pale blue textile upper with tonal suede construction on the mudguard and quarter panel, featuring perforated detailing that reveals a bright blue underlay. The vibrant hue reappears on the sneaker’s molded eyelets, which is accented with a yellow ‘UN/LA’ tag on the lateral side. A woven tag looped over the collar displays a retro Wings logo, while an oversized Jumpman label adorns the exposed foam tongue. This is the perfect pair for the court or the street.
That concludes our list for the best Union Los Angeles sneakers… if there are any we missed let us know! P.s. if you are a fan, keep your eyes peeled as there is a rumoured Cortez on the horizon…
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