Nike Air Jordan 1 Retro High OG vs Reebok Royal Bb4500 Hi2

Overview of the 2 Sneakers

Nike Air Jordan 1 Retro High OG

The Air Jordan 1 is the sneaker that started it all. Michael Jordan's original signature shoe from 1985 remains an iconic staple for Nike. The Air Jordan 1 Retro High OG pays tribute to its roots with the true original shape, colors and materials.

The remastered version brings back finer details for an authentic retro look and feel. The clean leather upper, Nike Air cushioning, and timeless black and red "Bred" colorway make this a must-have for diehard sneakerheads and casual wearers alike.

It's the classic high-top basketball shoe that sparked a legacy. Wear a piece of history on your feet with the Nike Air Jordan 1 Retro High OG.

Reebok Royal Bb4500 Hi2

Reebok makes a strong comeback with the Royal Bb4500 Hi2. Inspired by vintage Reebok basketball models from the 80s and 90s, this brand new silhouette has an old school appeal.

The leather upper with quilted stitching provides durable support and premium style. Hexalite cushioning offers comfort and shock absorption for all-day wear. Oversized Reebok branding on the tongue and side pays homage to the brand's heritage.

Fresh color options like the clean white Neutral Grey provide a contemporary twist. For basketball-inspired fashion with modern performance, the Reebok Royal Bb4500 Hi2 delivers.

In summary, Nike Air Jordan 1 and Reebok Royal Bb4500 are both iconic high-top basketball sneakers, but there are key differences that matter depending on personal style and needs.

The retro Air Jordan 1 has more street cred and collector's value with its roots in Jordan's original shoe from 1985. The Royal Bb4500 is brand new, featuring Reebok's latest tech like Hexalite cushioning for greater comfort.

OG Jordan 1 represents Nike's legend while the Royal Bb4500 shows Reebok's revival. Comparing the history, features, and style helps consumers make an informed decision when choosing between these classic basketball-inspired shoes.

While the Jordan 1 remains popular for its vintage appeal, the Reebok Royal offers a fresh take on an old school design. Considering the options is important before committing to a purchase.

Detailed Comparison

Comparison breakdown

Design and Aesthetics

The Nike Air Jordan 1 Retro High OG features the iconic original AJ1 silhouette with a clean and minimalist design aesthetic. The high-top leather upper has minimal stitching and detailing to let the quality materials shine.

The wings logo and Nike Swoosh are small and tonal, emphasizing the simple one-piece construction. The shoe epitomizes Jordan's famous statement to make the shoes look "so good that kids would want to wear them with jeans." The Air Jordan 1 shape is timeless and versatile for both sport and streetwear style.

In contrast, the Reebok Royal Bb4500 Hi2 flaunts a bulkier, more contemporary look and feel. The leather upper has layered panels, quilted stitching and textured accents that create visual interest.

Large perforations on the toe box add breathability while displaying Reebok's iconic logo. The oversized Reebok branding on the side and tongue provide bold, athletic contrast to the retro-inspired silhouette.

Unique hexalite cushioning is showcased through a clear side panel. The Royal Bb4500 design embraces sporty style with modern, fashion-forward details.

In summary, the Jordan 1 maintains a minimalist, vintage aesthetic while the Reebok Royal opts for a chunkier, busier look with more contemporary styling cues.

The Air Jordan 1 design is rooted in tradition while the Royal Bb4500 aims for a bold fusion of classic and modern elements. Considering these design philosophies helps consumers choose which aesthetic best suits their personal style.

Materials Quality

The Nike Air Jordan 1 Retro High OG uses premium leather on the upper, heel, and collar padding for durability and structure. The remastered version went back to higher grade leather to emulate the quality of the original 1985 AJ1s.

The leather is full-grain and deeply tumbled for texture. It molds to the foot for comfort over time. The polyester side panels add ventilation. Underfoot, the shoe has a rubber outsole and Nike's signature Air cushioning in the heel for shock absorption and responsiveness.

The Reebok Royal Bb4500 Hi2 also utilizes leather on the upper, including quilted and patent leather accents. The leather quality feels slightly thinner and stiffer versus the softer Jordan 1.

Many of the layered panels are textile for breathability and reduced weight. Reebok's signature hexalite cushioning provides impact protection with rubber under high wear areas for traction. The materials feel solid but lean more lightweight for performance versus premium lifestyle.

In summary, the Nike Air Jordan 1 Retro OG edges out with higher grade, softer leather throughout for a luxurious feel. The Reebok Royal Bb4500 uses quality leather as well but balances it out with more textiles for increased ventilation and reduced weight.

For pure lifestyle wear, the AJ1 materials may mold better to the foot over time. For performance or athleisure style, the Royal Bb4500 lighter construction has appeal. Consideration of material quality ensures proper expectations when choosing between these retro basketball designs.

Traction

The outsole of the Nike Air Jordan 1 Retro High OG provides excellent traction due to its full-length rubber construction with a herringbone pattern. The multi-directional herringbone lugs give great floor grip and court feel for basketball play.

The pattern extends over the forefoot and heel for stability in motion. The tread design is essentially unchanged from the original 1985 release, offering that same time-tested traction.

The Reebok Royal Bb4500 Hi2 also utilizes rubber on the outsole but opts for a more contemporary traction pattern. The outsole contains a combination of flat and siping grooves to allow flexibility while maintaining court grip.

High wear areas like the forefoot and heel have thicker zig-zag shaped rubber for durable traction. Additional padding under the heel provides shock absorption.

Overall, the grip is excellent but the thinner siping grooves may pick up more dust versus the Jordan 1's deeper herringbone lugs.

In summary, the Air Jordan 1 Retro High OG's full herringbone outsole seems to have a slight edge for better multi-directional grip and durability.

However, the Reebok Royal Bb4500 Hi2 offers pliable traction that still performs well, just with potentially more maintenance required. For outdoor courts or heavy use, the Jordan 1 rubber may fare better long-term.

Cushioning

The Air Jordan 1 Retro High OG features Nike's iconic Air cushioning unit in the heel. The encapsulated Air-Sole unit provides lightweight impact protection perfect for absorbing the force of hard landings.

The pressurized air also adds responsiveness for take-off and comfort. Forefoot cushioning relies on the EVA midsole and padded collar. Overall, the Air-Sole delivers excellent heel cushioning.

In contrast, the Reebok Royal Bb4500 Hi2 uses Reebok's proprietary Hexalite cushioning technology in the midsole. Hexalite contains a honeycomb-like structure that helps absorb impact and diffuse shock across the entire footbed.

It aims to provide cushioning and stability. While dense, the foam softens over time for contoured comfort. The heel also has an extra cushion insert for rearfoot shock absorption.

In summary, the Nike Air Jordon 1 offers targeted air cushioning in the heel, while the Reebok Royal Bb4500 offers full footbed cushioning with its hexalite foam.

The Air-Sole provides exceptional heel impact protection and energy return. But the hexalite aims to disperse shock across the foot for comfort. It comes down to preferences - localized bouncy cushioning versus stable all-over comfort.

Trying on both helps decide which cushioning system works best for your needs.

Support

The Nike Air Jordan 1 Retro High OG provides support through its leather upper, padded collar, and midsole design. The leather construction gives structure and durability to contain the foot.

The padded collar and tongue offer added ankle support and comfort. The midsole includes a polyurethane insert along the arch for medial support and stability. The high-top silhouette also supplies ankle support. Overall, the AJ1 offers a solid foot-hugging feel.

The Reebok Royal Bb4500 Hi2 supports the foot in different ways. The quilted leather upper adapts over time but has stiffer structure initially for containment.

The lace-up design ensures a secure fit. Inside, the Ortholite sockliner adds comfort while helping lock the foot in place. The wider Hexalite midsole provides a stable base, especially helpful for lateral motion. The high-cut design also supplies ample ankle support.

In summary, both shoes offer stability and ankle support from their high-top silhouette and materials. The Jordan 1 cradles the foot in soft, molded leather while the Royal Bb4500 provides firmer containment.

The wider Hexalite platform adds more base stability compared to the narrower Jordan 1 profile. Trying on both can determine which feels more secure based on foot shape and support needs.

Comfort & Fit

The Nike Air Jordan 1 Retro High OG is known for its broken-in, glove-like comfort. The soft, tumbled leather molds to the foot for a contoured fit over time.

The padded collar and tongue provide plush cushioning around the ankle. Inside, the partial foam midsole and Air-Sole unit in the heel absorb impact. The materials create a comfortable foot environment once formed to the wearer’s foot. The fit is snug but roomy in the toe box.

The Reebok Royal Bb4500 Hi2 offers a more structured, athletic comfort straight out of the box. The quilted leather upper provides both cushioning and support. The low-profile hexalite midsole supplies stable, even cushioning underfoot.

The Ortholite sockliner adds extra padding. The fit feels snugger overall, particularly in the toe box, but should adapt over time as materials soften.

In summary, the Jordan 1 provides plush, molded comfort that contours to the foot over wear. The Reebok Royal gives cushioned, stable support with a more performance-based fit.

The AJ1 will likely feel softer and roomier initially. The Royal Bb4500 may need some break-in time but promotes even foot alignment. Considering each shoe's comfort philosophy can help find the right foot feel.

Breathability

The Nike Air Jordan 1 Retro High OG offers moderate breathability from its leather and textile construction. The tumbled leather upper, while durable, can get slightly warm during extended wear.

The polyester side panels and tongue allow some air flow to the foot. The high-top silhouette traps more heat around the ankle as well. Overall, the AJ1 construction favors support and durability rather than ventilation.

In contrast, the Reebok Royal Bb4500 Hi2 provides much improved airflow and breathability. The upper combines leather with highly breathable open-weave textiles on the toe box, side panels and collar.

Large perforations on the toe box allow substantial ventilation. The higher funnel collar minimizes ankle heat entrapment. Inside, the moisture-wicking Ortholite sockliner promotes airflow and sweat reduction.

Overall, the Reebok Royal Bb4500 offers excellent climate control for warm weather wear.

In summary, the Reebok Royal Bb4500 Hi2 has superior breathability and airflow from its open-weave textiles and perforated design. The Nike Air Jordan 1 is comparatively warmer and less ventilated because of its focus on durability over airflow.

For hot climates or sweaty play, the Reebok Royal's breathable construction would provide an advantage in comfort.

Durability

The Nike Air Jordan 1 Retro High OG is highly durable thanks to its premium leather upper and solid rubber outsole. The tumbled leather withstands scrapes and everyday wear and tear while maintaining structure.

The all-rubber outsole also delivers long-lasting traction and resistance to abrasion. The sturdy materials used in the original 1985 design ensure the AJ1 holds up well during casual daily wear.

The Reebok Royal Bb4500 Hi2 also utilizes leather on the upper but balances it out with more lightweight textiles. While the leather overlays add durability, the mesh and synthetic textiles are more prone to tearing if caught on something.

The rubber outsole provides good traction retention but the mix of rubber and foam grooves may wear down quicker in high contact areas versus the Jordan 1’s full rubber coverage.

Overall, the Nike Air Jordan 1 Retro High OG appears more durable for long-term wear and tear. The premium leather upper and true rubber outsole can hold up to frequent use.

The Reebok Royal Bb4500 still offers solid construction but prioritizes lightweight breathability over pure durability in its design. For long-lasting casual wear, the Jordan 1 has the edge.

Water Resistance

The Nike Air Jordan 1 Retro High OG offers moderate water resistance thanks to its leather upper construction. Leather by nature repels some moisture and the AJ1's tumbled finish helps prevent water absorption.

However, the seams and stitched areas can allow water intrusion if exposed to heavy rain or puddles. Wearing spray protection treatments can improve water resistance. But compared to synthetic uppers, full leather provides only average water-repellency.

In contrast, the Reebok Royal Bb4500 Hi2 upper combines leather with highly breathable open-weave textiles. These woven synthetic fabrics have very poor water resistance and will absorb moisture readily.

Even the leather portions may be more prone to water saturation given the perforations. Without any waterproofing treatments, the Reebok Royal Bb4500 offers minimal protection in wet conditions.

In summary, the full leather upper of the Nike Air Jordan 1 Retro High OG provides noticeably better water resistance versus the textile and perforated leather upper of the Reebok Royal Bb4500.

The Jordan 1 construction acts as a better natural barrier to moisture. For wet weather wear, the AJ1 offers a clear advantage in keeping feet dry.

Brand Heritage

The Nike Air Jordan brand has over 35 years of cultural significance and basketball history behind it. When Michael Jordan first wore the Air Jordan 1 in 1985, he violated league dress code and sparked a sneaker revolution.

The brand built its status through Jordan's legendary play and Nike's iconic marketing campaigns. The Air Jordan became both a performance shoe and a cultural phenomenon.

Today the brand remains popular with sneakerheads, basketball players and streetwear enthusiasts alike. The Air Jordan 1 Retro OG represents the shoe that started this celebrated legacy.

In contrast, Reebok's basketball heritage stems from the late 1980s and 90s with models worn by pros like Shaquille O’Neal and Allen Iverson. Reebok was hugely popular during the aerobics and fitness craze of the 1980s.

The brand later gained respect in basketball circles through tech innovations like the iconic Pump shoe. However, Reebok's hoops culture status faded in the 2000s as Jordan and Nike dominated.

With the Royal Bb4500, the brand is making a comeback by reinventing its classics. But Reebok cannot match the multi-decade iconic narrative of Air Jordan’s line.

In summary, the Air Jordan 1 Retro High OG represents over three decades of legendary style and innovation. The Reebok Royal Bb4500 is a strong retro-inspired design but cannot compare to AJ1’s undisputed place in basketball shoe history.

For those who value heritage, the Air Jordan line has far more cultural cachet and collector’s appeal.

Value and Cost

The Nike Air Jordan 1 Retro High OG is the more expensive option, typically retailing for $170 USD. However, the premium materials, exacting retro construction, and iconic style make it well worth the cost for enthusiasts.

The craftsmanship and durability also give great value for the money. As an iconic collector's item, the AJ1 can potentially gain value over time.

By contrast, the Reebok Royal Bb4500 Hi2 retails for a more affordable $120 USD. It provides strong mid-tier value by using quality leather and performance features at a reasonable price point.

However, as a new release, it does not have the proven longevity and collector's value of the Jordan 1.

In summary, the Jordan 1 commands a higher price but delivers enduring value through its timeless significance and proven quality. The Reebok Royal Bb4500 gives good bang for buck in the short term.

However, the AJ1 remains the sounder long term investment for those who appreciate its legacy and craftsmanship. Ultimately, the Jordan 1 offers superior value despite the steeper upfront cost.

Conclusion

When it comes to these two retro basketball-inspired sneakers, the choice ultimately comes down to personal style and priorities. For those who value heritage and enduring cultural significance, the Air Jordan 1 Retro High OG is the pinnacle.

Its clean vintage look, premium materials and roots in Michael Jordan's original shoe make it a staple with both collector’s appeal and timeless style.

For buyers focused on innovative performance with modern comfort, the Reebok Royal Bb4500 Hi2 makes a strong case. It brings Reebok’s technical features like Hexalite cushioning together with vintage basketball swagger. The more athletic fit and ample ventilation give it an edge for all-day wearability.

While the Jordan 1 wins on legacy, the Reebok Royal wins on accessibility and comfort. Unless the AJ1’s proven status as a grail sneaker is a must, new buyers may be better served by the Royal Bb4500’s well-rounded performance and affordable price.

But for OG sneakerheads who lived through Jordan’s early days, the Air Jordan 1 remains the undisputed choice between these two retro basketball greats.

At the end of the day, going with your gut instinct and personal style intuition rarely steers you wrong. But being informed on all the factors before purchasing gives you the confidence to pick the sneaker that best fits your lifestyle.

Whether you crave heritage or innovation, the joy is in the journey to find that perfect pair. Happy hunting!