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When Jordan Brand first introduced the eight finalists of its Jordan Design Studio, Syn Zhuang stood out with one of the more unexpected takes on the Air Jordan 1. Now, the Beijing-based footwear designer has taken the top spot, becoming the program’s first global winner following the finals in Shanghai.
Zhuang was selected as Beijing’s finalist after developing an Air Jordan 1 centered around a softer, more flexible interpretation of the classic silhouette. Her prototype was one of eight designs unveiled by Jordan Brand ahead of the global finals, each offering a different take on the iconic sneaker. Her winning concept pushes that idea further, stripping back some of the structure associated with the AJ1 in favor of a relaxed shape and more tactile construction.
The upper is built around soft materials that gather across the shoe, creating a loose, ruched effect that gives the sneaker the appearance of a low boot. Visible hand stitching and unfinished edges add to the deliberately imperfect finish.
Zhuang’s approach also places particular emphasis on how the silhouette can work within women’s everyday wardrobes. Rather than simply scaling down or recoloring an existing AJ1, her concept considers comfort, versatility, and self-expression while maintaining enough of the original design language to remain recognizable as a Jordan.
Her concept was selected from the eight city finalists by a panel consisting of the program’s Creative Mentors and Jordan Brand’s design and product teams. As the global winner, Zhuang will continue developing the concept directly with Jordan Brand, with the design planned to become a future inline Air Jordan 1 silhouette.
That makes the project particularly notable for the AJ1. The winning prototype isn’t just another experimental take on the sneaker; it is now moving into the next stage of development with the potential to become part of Jordan Brand’s wider lineup.
“Honestly, I never expected this result. From winning in Beijing to where we are now and getting this result. It’s just incredible!” says Syn Zhuang. “I think it has been such an amazing and wonderful experience. Especially having everyone here with us.”
Zhuang’s win comes after the eight finalists came together in Shanghai for The One Global Finals, where the designers and their mentors took part in a multi-day experience surrounding the event. The group participated in an upcycling workshop focused on reimagining handbags and hats and took part in additional activities throughout their time in Shanghai.
Release details for Zhuang’s Air Jordan 1 will be announced at a later date, with the prototype officially advancing into development as a future inline silhouette.
