The AJ1 University Blue  has some contrasting shades, and its University Blue color pays respect to Michael Jordan's time on the UNC basketball team. A major part of the upper is made out of tumbled white leather. This material covers the toebox, where it's perforated, and the side panels. Around the collar and on the Nike Swoosh, the design team has used tumbled black leather. More black is found on the laces.

Most of the rest of the shoe is made out of University Blue Durabuck leather, which is a type of synthetic leather. You'll find the classic Air Jordan Wings logo on the collar flap in black. On the white padded tongue, there's a black and blue woven Nike Air tag. The midsole is also white, and the rubber outsole has a vibrant blue color.