Nike Ja 1 basketball runners

Ja 1

Ja Morant is one of the rising stars of the NBA and has already earned accolades like Rookie of the Year and two All-Star. Early in his career, he joined Nike, and on Christmas Day 2022, debuted his first signature shoe, the Ja 1, as he top-scored with 36 points against the Golden State Warriors.

The Nike Ja 1 reflects and supports Morant’s playing style, with an outsole built to support dynamic movement via a tightly packed tread pattern of zig-zagging lines that delivers multidirectional grip. A Zoom Air unit beneath the forefoot provides responsiveness and generates extra power when jumping towards the hoop, while the soft Phylon foam midsole offers a balance of lightness, court feel and impact protection.

The upper of the Ja 1 enhances support by way of cushioned guardrails on the flanks and collar that protect the ankle from injury during takeoff and landing. Breathable mesh covers the outer, with synthetic leather overlays reinforcing key areas. The shoe’s reliable lockdown system incorporates sidewall panels, a semi-gusseted tongue and both internal and external lace loops that offer a secure but flexible fit.

Designed for both basketball and lifestyle appeal, the Nike Ja 1 is covered in stylish details. Wrap-around TPU swooshes appear beside Morant’s jersey number 12, which has been embroidered onto the heel and the back of the tongue patch. It can also be seen more subtly in the perforations on the medial midfoot, while ‘Ja’ marks those on the heel. His logo is displayed on the outsole and tongue, while the design of the forefoot outriggers, which provide a stable base, resemble the letter ‘J’.

Since its 2023 release, the Ja 1 has been reproduced in multiple colourways celebrating Morant’s life and career. One of the earliest was the Day One colourway, which features a specially designed blue tone symbolising his blue-collar work ethic. Other models have the colours of the Memphis Grizzlies, where Morant has spent his whole career to date. Meanwhile, every pair is decorated with personalised handwritten text that honours the important people in his life. From his daughter’s name, Kaari, to memorable quotes and letters to his supporters, each detail makes the Ja 1 uniquely his. Despite being such a carefully crafted signature shoe, Morant insisted on an affordable price point so that it remains accessible to all.

Secure, responsive and versatile, the Nike Ja 1 offers excellent performance and style so that everyone can have the same dynamic playing experience as an NBA superstar.