Custom of the Month - April - 2026 | Skinz Time

Johnny Skinz
May 3
3 min read

The latest Custom of the Month is a project that perfectly blended craftsmanship, branding, and storytelling. This custom Air Jordan 1 collaboration with 2XO Whiskey gave me the opportunity to create something that felt as refined and bold as the spirit itself.

When the brand and I first started working on the concept, we knew we didn't want to simply place a logo on a sneaker and call it a day. The goal was to create a design that embodied the character of the brand, and give off a whiskey vibe, from heel to toe.

The Concept

Premium whiskey is all about the details, and 2XO's Sneakerhead Blend is no exception. From the barrel-aging process to the rich amber tones in the glass, every element tells a story. I wanted these Jordan 1s to capture that same sense of depth and sophistication.

We found the perfect base shoe to work with this concept: the Jordan 1 Retro High OG Black Metallic Gold. The sleek black colorway lent the perfect backdrop for adding metallic gold accents and branding. The contrast immediately gave the design a luxurious feel while staying true to the bold identity of 2XO Whiskey.

To bring the concept to life, I incorporated a custom wood grain pattern across the side panels which was a direct nod to the oak barrels that play such an important role in the whiskey-making process. The subtle texture adds visual interest without overpowering the overall design.

The Breakdown

The beauty of this project lives in the small details.

The most distinctive feature is the custom wood grain artwork layered throughout the side panels. This detail pays homage to the oak barrels that are central to 2XO's identity. In fact, the name "2XO" stands for "Two Times Oak," referencing the additional oak exposure used in the brand's unique blending process to create deeper flavor, complexity, and character.

Metallic gold accents wrap the collar, heel, and toe box, creating a refined contrast against the black leather overlays. The custom wood grain pattern peeks through beneath the Swoosh, adding texture and depth without overwhelming the design.

To complete the collaboration, the iconic 2XO branding was featured prominently on the heel, ensuring the shoes felt like a true extension of the brand rather than just a themed sneaker. The final touch was adding Dixon Dedman's signature to the outer toe panel, his stamp of approval.

The result is a pair that feels equally at home displayed on a shelf, worn to an event, or showcased as part of a collector's lineup.

Why This One Sticks With Me

What makes this project special is the story behind it.

Sneaker culture has always been about self-expression, individuality, and appreciation for craftsmanship. The Sneakerhead Blend was created from those same values, making this collaboration feel incredibly natural.

The wood grain detailing, premium metallic finishes, and subtle branding all work together to tell a story rather than simply advertise a product. That's always the goal with my customs, to create something that feels authentic to the brand while still standing on its own as wearable artwork.

This pair perfectly captures that balance, which is why it's my favorite project from April.

Interested in collabing with me to bring your brand to your feet? Commission a pair here.

Follow the behind-the-scenes process on Instagram @skinzcustoms.