Skip to content

Introducing the Air Jordan 5

The Air Jordan 5 is a highly regarded shoe with a unique place in the Air Jordan line's history. Its unique design, innovative features, and association with basketball legend Michael Jordan have made the Air Jordan 5 an iconic silhouette.

With already two Air Jordan models under his belt, Tinker Hatfield also designed the Air Jordan 5. Working closely with Jordan, he came up with a design that was both functional and supportive with an aesthetic that matched the basketball star's mentality.

The Anatomy of the Air Jordan 5

The shoe features mesh panels for better breathability, a reflective 3M tongue, and a unique set of lace locks that keep the foot secure. Nike's Air cushioning technology on the heel provided solid impact protection.

The Air Jordan 5 was first released by Nike and Jordan Brand in 1990. Hatfield was inspired by fighter jets from World War II and sought to create a shoe that embodied speed, aggression, and flight, aligning with Michael Jordan's playing style on the basketball court.

Popular AJ5 Colorways

Air Jordan 5 'Transformer'

Transformers

The Air Jordan 5 'Transformers' is a limited-edition sneaker that was released in 2017 to celebrate the film franchise of the same name and was designed by Mark Wahlberg. The shoe features a black upper with reflective detailing, a glow-in-the-dark outsole, and a Transformers logo on the tongue.

The shoe has been praised for its design and its limited release. Some people have even called it one of the best Jordan sneakers ever made. However, the shoe has also been criticised for its high price tag. Some people have even called it overpriced. Despite the criticism, the Air Jordan 5 'Transformers' remains a popular sneaker among collectors.

Air Jordan 5 'grape'

Grape

The Air Jordan 5 'Grape' is a highly sought-after and iconic sneaker that has been a favourite among sneakerheads for years, released in 2013 as a retro version of the original 1990 release. The sneaker includes a visible Air unit in the heel, the lace loops that resemble shark teeth, and the translucent tongue that features a holographic Jordan logo. The upper is made of a combination of suede, leather, and synthetic materials.

The white midsole is contrasted by the ice blue and emerald green accents, while the purple accents provide a pop of color. The translucent tongue features a holographic Jordan logo that shimmers in the light. It was inspired by the Air Jordan V's original 'Grape' colorway, which featured a similar color scheme but with a more muted tone. The 2013 release was a much brighter and more vibrant version of the original, and it quickly became a popular choice among sneaker collectors.

Air Jordan 5 'Black Metallic'

Black Metallic

Sneakerheads all around the world desire an original AJ5, but 'Black Metallic' is typically at the top of the list. It first appeared in 2016 as a homage to the original 1990 colorway.

The sneaker has a metallic silver tongue and shark tooth midsole with reflective 3M detailing and a black nubuck upper with fire red accents on the logo and lace lock. Sneakerheads and collectors like it because of its traditional style and contemporary design.

Air Jordan 5 'Fire Red'

Fire Red

The Air Jordan 5 'Fire Red' is a highly sought-after sneaker that originally released in 1990. It features a white leather upper with bold fire red accents on the branding, lace lock, and midsole. A reflective silver 3M with a red Jumpman logo tongue adds a touch of flash, while the icy blue outsole provides a cool contrast.

This iconic colorway has been released in 1990 (original), 2000, 2006, 2011, 2016, and most recently in 2020, and it remains a popular choice among sneakerheads and collectors.

Air Jordan 5 'Burgundy'

Burgundy

The Air Jordan 5 'Burgundy' is a special edition colorway that was re-released in August 2023. It features a luxurious burgundy suede upper, complemented by contrasting stitching and transparent netting on the quarter panel for enhanced breathability. The shoe also has a reflective silver tongue with a red Jumpman logo, and a translucent icy blue outsole that adds a touch of pop.

This limited-edition sneaker has quickly become a favourite among sneakerheads and collectors due to its elegant color scheme and premium materials, very suitable for royalty. It is a versatile sneaker that can be dressed up or down, making it a great choice for everyday wear or special occasions.

Air Jordan 5 'Oregon'

Oregon

The Air Jordan 5 'Oregon' is a special edition colorway that was released in September 2020 to commemorate the University of Oregon Ducks. The sneaker features a vibrant apple green suede upper, accented with black detailing on the eyelets, tongue, and mesh inserts. On the sole, a black midsole and icy translucent outsole provide a striking contrast.

The Air Jordan 5 'Oregon' is a popular choice among sneakerheads and University of Oregon fans due to its unique colorway and association with the iconic university. The colorway is also relatively rare, as it was only released in limited quantities, making it a unique addition to an ever-growing collection.

Air Jordan 5 'Red Suede'

Red Suede

Released in July 2017, the Air Jordan 5 'Red Suede' is a vibrant and eye-catching colorway that pays homage to Michael Jordan's Chicago Bulls legacy. This colorway features a premium suede upper in a bold university red hue, accented by black detailing on the midsole, tongue branding, and lace loops. A reflective silver tongue and an icy translucent outsole add subtle pops of color and shine.

The Air Jordan 5 'Red Suede' has become a favourite among sneakerheads and Jordan enthusiasts due to its sleek design and bold color scheme. It's a versatile shoe that can be worn with a variety of outfits, from casual streetwear to more formal attire. With its limited release and high demand, the Air Jordan 5 'Red Suede' is a coveted collector's item.

Air Jordan 5 'Michigan'

Michigan

The Air Jordan 5 'Michigan' is a special edition colorway that was released in August 2019 to commemorate the University of Michigan Wolverines. It features a vibrant yellow Maize and blue nubuck upper, accented with black detailing on the midsole, tongue, and netting. The sneaker also has a translucent outsole with icy blue accents.

This particular colorway is a popular choice among sneakerheads and University of Michigan fans due to its unique colour combination and association with the iconic university. It is also a rare sneaker, as it was only released in limited quantities back in the day.

Air Jordan 5 'Olympic'

Olympic

The Air Jordan 5 'Olympic' was released as a limited edition colorway in 2016 to commemorate Rio de Janeiro, Brazil's hosting of the Summer Olympics. It has a white leather upper with black and gold accents that are reminiscent of Olympic rings. The shoe also has an icy blue accented translucent outsole.

Because the highly sought-after pair was a limited edition colorway that has since become a part of sneaker history, those who were able to purchase one felt like winners.

Did you know?

In the early 1990s, Fresh Prince of Bel-Air was responsible for a lot of hype surrounding the Air Jordan 5, especially the 'Grape' iteration, which was arguably the most sought-after AJ5.

A pair of Jordan AJ5s were given to Will Smith as a birthday gift on his 50th birthday by Jordan Brand. One of the most noteworthy features of the F&F golden edition was that there were only 23 pairs made.