Vintage 1985 Air Jordan 1 Restoration: From Antique Mall Find to Iconic Sneaker Revival

When it comes to sneaker history, few pairs are more iconic than the 1985 Air Jordan 1. But finding a pair in good condition — let alone at a bargain price — is nearly impossible.

That’s why Vick Almighty couldn’t believe his luck when he stumbled upon a miniature pair of 1985 Jordan 1s for just $30 at an antique mall.

The only catch? These tiny grails had seen decades of wear. We’re talking cracked leather, heavy yellowing, deep creases, and layers of built-up dirt. They were the smallest ’85s Vick had ever worked on, making this one of his most delicate sneaker restorations to date.

Step 1: Prepping the Pair for Restoration

Before touching any cleaning solution, Vick began with a dust-off using the air compressor to remove loose dirt. Since no shoe trees were small enough to fit inside, he custom-made a pair from old Reshoevn8r Microfiber Towels. This not only helped hold the shape but also prepped the toe box for later reshaping.

Step 2: Deep Cleaning with the Reshoevn8r Essential Shoe Cleaning Kit

With the sneakers prepped, Vick used the Soft Bristle Brush to gently clean the leather uppers, preventing further damage to the already fragile material. The Stiff Bristle Brush tackled the outsoles, cutting through years of grime. Everything was dried off with a Reshoevn8r Microfiber Towel, ensuring no excess moisture remained.

The laces got their own treatment—tossed into the Vick2000 cleaning machine for a deep refresh. For stubborn dirt spots, Reshoevn8r Wipes provided quick, precise touch-ups without oversaturating the material.

Step 3: Restoring Shape and Structure

Restoring the original shape was a critical step. Vick used a mini iron to smooth out the deep creases in the toe box, followed by a steamer to revive the ankle collars. This helped re-establish the structure without stressing the vintage leather.

Step 4: Finishing Touches for Longevity

Once the shape and color were restored, Vick applied Reshoevn8r Mink Oil to condition the leather and add a layer of protection. This final step not only nourished the material but also prepped it for long-term preservation in any sneaker collection.

From Antique Mall Find to Collector’s Display Piece

What started as a $30 antique mall find ended up becoming one of the most unique sneaker restorations Vick has ever completed. It wasn’t just about cleaning—it was about preserving a rare piece of Jordan Brand history.

If you’re looking to restore your own sneakers, whether they’re vintage grails or daily beaters, shop the Reshoevn8r Essential Shoe Cleaning Kit and the Reshoevn8r Mink Oil to keep your kicks looking fresh for years to come.