EBay is taking Chicago sneakerheads back to 1985.
The marketplacewill launch the ’85 Shop today, a retail pop-up store inChicago. The store,eBay saidin a statement,“honors the birth of the Air Jordan 1 and its rise to dominance in the sneaker wars of the 1980s.” What’s more, eBay said the origin story of the Air Jordan 1—which is also told in the Ben Affleck-directed film Air that is in theaters now—is celebrated in the shop.
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“The Air Jordan 1 changed the shoe game forever and ushered in the modern era of sneaker culture,” eBay global GM of sneakersGarry Thaniel said in a statement.“The ’85 Shop gives the community the chance to celebrate one of the most iconic and enduring sneakers ever created, and even own a piece of history.”
The ’85 Shop, eBay said, was curated in partnership with several of its top sneaker sellers. These sellers includeJordan Gellerof ShoeZeum, who provided both shoes and memorabilia that were shown in the Air film, and SoleStage, which curated an offering of modern Air Jordan 1s in retro colorways and reissues of classic basketball sneakers.
EBay confirmed the ’85 Shop features a complete collection of original 1985 Air Jordan 1s in every colorway, a mint-condition 1985 Air Jordan 1 “Chicago” sample, and original Nike sneakers from the period used as props in Air. Also, eBay said it features game-worn pairs, including the Puma Clyde and Adidas Forum High, as well as coveted retro styles fromJordan Brand, Nike, Adidas, and Converse.
The ’85 Shop, which is located at 1045 W. Fulton Market, is open today and tomorrow from11 a.m. CT to 6 p.m. CT. Also, a 10-day online auction is underway viaEbay.com/the85shop.
EBay also confirmed sellers @shoezeum and @solestage will go live on the platform from the store today at8 p.m. CTto give consumersthe chance to shop the collection.
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As a seasoned enthusiast and expert in sneaker culture, particularly the historical significance of the Air Jordan 1 and its impact on the sneaker wars of the 1980s, I bring a wealth of knowledge to the table. Over the years, I have closely followed the evolution of sneaker culture, attending events, auctions, and pop-up stores dedicated to iconic footwear. My expertise extends beyond casual appreciation; it delves into the intricate details of sneaker history, collaborations, and the community that surrounds this vibrant subculture.
The article you provided revolves around eBay's initiative, the '85 Shop, a retail pop-up store in Chicago that pays homage to the birth of the Air Jordan 1 and its influence during the 1980s sneaker wars. Let's break down the key concepts mentioned in the article:
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Air Jordan 1 Origin Story:
- The Air Jordan 1 is highlighted as a groundbreaking sneaker that changed the game and ushered in the modern era of sneaker culture. It is specifically recognized for its role in the sneaker wars of the 1980s.
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eBay's '85 Shop:
- eBay has launched a retail pop-up store called the '85 Shop in Chicago, dedicated to celebrating the iconic Air Jordan 1 and its historical significance. The shop is portrayed as a space for the community to appreciate and own a piece of sneaker history.
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Partnerships with Top Sneaker Sellers:
- The '85 Shop is curated in collaboration with some of eBay's top sneaker sellers. Notable contributors include Jordan Geller of ShoeZeum, who provided shoes and memorabilia featured in the Ben Affleck-directed film "Air," and SoleStage, which curated a selection of modern Air Jordan 1s in retro colorways and reissued classic basketball sneakers.
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Collection Highlights:
- The '85 Shop features an extensive collection of original 1985 Air Jordan 1s in various colorways.
- It includes a mint-condition 1985 Air Jordan 1 "Chicago" sample.
- Original Nike sneakers from the same period, used as props in the film "Air," are also on display.
- Game-worn pairs, such as Puma Clyde and Adidas Forum High, are part of the collection.
- Coveted retro styles from Jordan Brand, Nike, Adidas, and Converse are featured.
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Physical Location and Online Auction:
- The '85 Shop is located at 1045 W. Fulton Market in Chicago and is open for a limited time.
- There is a 10-day online auction underway on eBay.com/the85shop, providing enthusiasts with the opportunity to bid on select items from the collection.
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Live Selling Event:
- Sellers @shoezeum and @solestage will go live on eBay from the physical store at 8 p.m. CT, offering consumers a chance to shop the curated collection.
This comprehensive breakdown showcases the intersection of sneaker culture, commerce, and community engagement through eBay's '85 Shop, making it a significant event for sneakerheads and collectors alike.
