The Jordan 1 Fearless UNC Chicago is on schedule to release this Saturday, November 2nd, and so far pre-release sales are leading us to believe that Jordan Brand is entering the holiday season with a winner. This shoe represents MJās transition from college to the NBA, evolving from a college champion to Chicagoās star player. As part of Jordan’s Fearless Pack, this sneaker has been a stand out of the bunch, doing so by incorporating design elements from some of the most beloved Jordan 1s of all time. Letās look into why a unique colorway and material mash-up could send the Jordan 1 Fearless UNC Chicago on a path of resale longevity.
At first glance, the Jordan 1 Fearless UNC Chicago seems familiar. Everything from the choice of colors to the gleaming patent leather is nothing new to our eyes…or is it? Despite the return of arguably the best two colors used in Jordanās catalog, this design is a first. The Jordan 1 Fearless is a balanced blend of three Jordan 1s that have done very well in the after-market: the Jordan 1 Retro Chicago (2015), the Jordan 1 Retro UNC, and the Jordan 1 Retro Chicago Bulls Patent (2003). Chicago and UNC genetics can be crucial indicators of future success, and it shows in patent Jordan 1 releases.
Jordan 1 Retro Chicago Bulls Patent (2003)
Despite the universal fear of patent toe box creases, Jordan 1s clad in patent leather hold their value well. Jordan Brand has previously only released six patent leather Jordan 1s. These have averaged a resale value of $299 and premiums of 119%. The difference between retaining and acquiring value lies in the colorway. Patent leather AJ 1s sporting either Chicago or UNC colors averaged a resale value of $368, while other colorways came up $140 shorter at $228. This means that just by switching to UNC or Chicago colors, a patent Jordan 1 can increase its value by 61%. The love for traditional Jumpman colorways is prevalent in Jordan 1s, regardless of material choice.
UNC / Chicago Patent 1s vs Other Patent 1s
| Colorway | Average Resale Value | Average Premium |
|---|---|---|
| UNC / Chicago | $368 | 198% |
| Other | $228 | 39% |
So far, in pre-release activity, the Jordan 1 Fearless UNC ChicagoĀ has already racked up over 1,600 sales at an average resale value of $315 and premiums of 97%. These numbers are lower than the Shattered Backboard 3.0, a past-time hyped drop whose prices quickly fell after its mass release . What we are noticing is a combination of things. Higher quantities of releases are entering the resale market at a faster rate. This is having a reverse auction effect on the market. Sellers are competing with each other to provide the lowest price for immediate gains. We are noticing more shoes acquire value in time because as time goes on, deadstock quantities diminish and their value increases.
How will prices for the Jordan 1 Fearless UNC Chicago respond after their official release, when supply fully hits the market? Based on the high number of pre-release sales and a recent downward trend in premiums, we expect this shoe to be highly accessible at a decent price following the release. This sneaker is likely to acquire value over time, following a trend that is a result of the changing market. Whether you plan on taking these Jordan 1s straight to your feet or keeping them on ice, these sneakers are a must follow.
