There’s one sneaker that has disappointed many Jordan fans and sneakerheads in 2023. The much-anticipated Air Jordan 5 Burgundy sneaker hit the shelves earlier this month but left many enthusiasts and collectors incredibly underwhelmed. A stark departure from its celebrated 2006 predecessor, the new retro release garnered criticism for the change in materials, colour, and texture. The result? There are still plenty of AJ5 pairs on store shelves.
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The Materials
“If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it” isn’t an approach Nike decided to take on this retro rerelease. Instead, a few adjustments have caused fans to avoid this drop. A significant point of contention arises from the material used in the 2023 release of the Air Jordan 5 Burgundy sneaker. The original version featured a plush suede that was loved by many, but the new model has switched to a nubuck-like material. Ew!
While bearing a superficial resemblance to suede, it lacks the same depth and softness that made the original so popular. The texture seems pared down, stripped of the unique, tactile feel of the 2006 version.
While it isn’t terrible, it’s obvious that there were a few shortcuts taken on the quality here. It’s just not as premium-looking as the older model.
The Colour
The colour choice for the new release has also sparked disappointment. The newer burgundy is darker than its predecessor, lacking the same eye-catching vibrancy that set the original apart. Those who were looking forward to reliving their fond memories of the 2006 release may find themselves let down by this change. The colour difference is noticeable.
Again, it’s surprising that Jordan would alter this, knowing how well-received the original sneaker was.
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What We Like About The Air Jordan 5 Burgundy
On a brighter note, the 2023 release is not without its redeeming qualities too.
The cuts and stitching are of high quality, and the shoe has some appealing features. The low-top cut on the toe box is consistent with the favoured look of the Jordan 5 in recent years and closely resembles the OG cut.
Other highlights include 3M on the tongue and a burgundy Jumpman logo. The light graphite on the back and laces provide a pleasing contrast.
Nonetheless, if it is marketed as the Air Jordan 5 Burgundy, it should more faithfully represent the original.
The Price
A further source of frustration is the retail price of $225. It’s a substantial investment for a shoe that falls short of living up to its name. The aftermarket price currently hovers around $400 plus, but it’s likely to decrease as more people acquire the shoe and discern the disparities from the original version.
It’s important to remember that personal preferences vary. If you like the 2023 release, that’s perfectly okay. What matters is your satisfaction with the product. My criticism comes from the fact that it’s being marketed as the Air Jordan 5 Burgundy but fails to uphold the legacy of the original release.
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In conclusion, the 2023 Air Jordan 5 Burgundy release falls short of expectations. Changes in material and colour make it a substantially different shoe than the one many were eagerly awaiting. As a standalone shoe, it boasts a good design and some attractive features. Yet, when contrasted with the original, it’s a disappointment. This makes it one of the most disappointing sneaker releases of 2023.
