Virgil Abloh Archives Launches The Virgil Reader Vol. 001 and Announces VAA x Air Jordan 1 High Giveaway

Even before his unfortunate passing, Virgil Abloh was never into gatekeeping. He frequently shared his creative process through talks, online forums, and even a website titled “Free Game,” which methodically breaks down how to get started as a creative. The most recent celebration of Abloh’s contributions to the world was held in Paris, an exhibition titled The Codes, which displayed just a small portion of his 20,000-piece archive, headed up by his wife Shannon and the newly founded Virgil Abloh Archives.

The VAA has just launched its first printed publication, the Virgil Reader Vol. 001, announced a new membership, and a giveaway for 100 pairs of the upcoming Virgil Abloh Archives x Air Jordan 1 High Alaska.

“Virgil believed deeply in sharing knowledge and opening doors, the Archive and Foundation are my commitment to carrying that forward, making his work accessible, contextualized, and meaningful for future generations,” said Shannon Abloh, Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Virgil Abloh Securities. “Through the launch of the Archive Membership and The Virgil Reader Vol. 001, we are inviting the public into that process, with moments of connection and collaboration still ahead.”

In this first edition of the printed publication, VAA has provided us with 256 pages featuring interviews from outlets such as 032c, GQ Style, i-D, Business of Fashion, and more, alongside archival material. The pre-order for the first volume is open now, with the cover stating it’s a limited edition of 2,000.

To celebrate the launch, VAA is hosting a two-day activation in Los Angeles from March 14-15. The primary focus is on The Virgil Reader Vol. 001, though there will also be programming around upcoming Archive launches, like the Alaska Air Jordan 1 High, as well as talks, readings, and community events.

You can also now sign up for a free membership with Virgil Abloh Archives via virgilabloh.com. Scroll down and enter your information to receive a digital excerpt from the first Virgil Reader, get priority access to future announcements and releases, and if you’re a creative, the chance to win a pair of the upcoming VAA x AJ1 High Alaska. 100 random creatives will be gifted the pair alongside The Virgil Reader Vol. 001. Follow the instructions on the page for a chance to win one of the most hyped releases of 2026.

All of this, plus the in-person event in Los Angeles, points to this being the beginning of the rollout for the Virgil Abloh Archives x Air Jordan 1 High Alaska. We’ll keep you updated via the Sole Retriever mobile app as more info about the pair comes to light, but in the meantime, take a look at images of the AJ 1 High collab below.

Nicholas Vlahos

Sneakerhead from South Florida who turned his passion into a career. When not writing for Sole Retriever, I enjoy attending concerts, catching the latest movies, and trying new food. For tips, reviews, or any shoes in a size 13, email nick@soleretriever.com