Check Out This Unreleased Naruto x Air Jordan 1 High Sample

Outside of the man's interest in hoops, 's second passion is for – the young ninja protagonist of Shonen Jump manga fame. The beloved character has served Williamson as inspo for an ambitious collaboration, blending two of the most instantly recognisable cultural icons in recent memory. And while the partnership between the sneaker world and anime fans was a groundbreaking moment, behind the scenes, it almost descended into chaos. Recently, surfaced images of the Naruto x have shed light on what could have been one of the most coveted releases in the line’s recent history.

Based on the iconic Air Jordan 1 Stash hardwear, the unreleased colab mixes functional design elements like stash pockets and a removable bag, seamlessly integrating the 'Hidden Leaf Village' theme into the overall aesthetic.

Although Naruto himself appears elsewhere in the collection, it’s clear that Kakashi Hatake – he's the elite ninja leader of Team 7, for the n00bs – serves as the primary inspiration for this design. The shoe’s palette of olive green, navy blue, and black echoes Kakashi’s signature look, utilising unconventional materials such as canvas heel counters, glossy leather collars and mesh quarter panels to evoke ninja armour.

Silver accents at the heel, an exposed product tag on the collar, and dual heel badges further emphasise the franchise’s influence, transforming the sneaker into a wearable tribute to the series.

Though Jordan 1 offshoots rise and fall in popularity, the Naruto x Air Jordan 1 High had everything it needed to make a lasting impact – especially with its super sharp, utility-inspired details. The model's potential was only amplified by the , which still remains highly sought-after even to this day. Had this release gone to market, its safe to say that the pair would have become one of the most high-profile and memorable releases in the Jordan x Naruto lineage, cementing its status as a true collector’s gem.

While it remains a pre-production sample unlikely to ever see release, the Zion Williamson x Naruto x Air Jordan 1 High is still worth checking out for its wild design and pop-cultural mashup. If interest strikes beyond just looking, be ready to drop around $7,500 to own one of these rare prototypes!