Suppose you were to ask which shoes in the Air Jordan line have had the privilege of receiving the most creative treatment and interpretation. In that case, a convincing argument can be made that the Air Jordan 5 is right up there with some of the best colourways to boot. Already a beauty to behold when it first came out, the silhouette benefited from incredible collaborations and masterful design interpretation. And who has benefited the most? Sneakerheads and fashion-savvy types all over the world. The Air Jordan 5 has a robust leather upper, drawing inspiration from Mustang fighter jet exteriors. On the midsole, the shoe boasts an instantly recognizable “shark tooth” design, symbolizing power and precision – two things Michael Jordan was known for when he was on the court of play. Additionally, breathable mesh sidewall inserts ensure lightweight comfort, allowing for agile movement during the game.
So, here’s our list of the 20 best Air Jordan 5 colourways. Is it ranked? Maybe. Maybe not. We’ll let you decide. At the end, let us know which ones you’d pick for your personal collection.
20. DJ Khaled x Air Jordan 5 “Crimson Bliss”
Ey, who doesn’t want DJ Khaled on his team, seriously? The man has his fingers in every pie imaginable, and now he’s doing big things here, too. The DJ Khaled x Air Jordan 5 Retro “Crimson Bliss” is a playful twist on the AJ5, forming part of his “We the Best” collection. Crafted in coral leather, the upper contrasts dramatically against the silky Leche Blue lining. Each heel overlay features distinct embroidery – the classic Nike Air logo on the right, while “We the Best” stands on the left. The reflective silver tongue is all about Jumpman’s heritage. At the same time, translucent rubber outsoles echo that same branding with additional Jumpman and “We the Best” logos. This sneaker will surely please both fans of the Air Jordan 5 and DJ Khaled. Just because it’s at the bottom of the list doesn’t mean it deserves to be counted out as one of the best Air Jordan 5 colourways of all time.
19. Air Jordan 5 “Michigan”
They are officially known as the Air Jordan 5 Retro SP ‘Michigan’ CQ9541-704. In 2019, Jordan released a special edition of the Air Jordan 5 to honour the University of Michigan. The shoes use the university’s classic colours of navy and yellow. The sneakers feature a nubuck upper with perforated panels on the sides. The usual Jumpman logo on the heel is replaced with a “Team Jordan” logo. The tongue graphics are reflective, and “Inspire” lettering is inside the shoe to celebrate the colleges that Jordan sponsors.
RELATED: 5 Best Air Jordan Collaborations of 2023
18. Air Jordan 5 “Olympic”
Is there any higher level of athletic achievement than the Olympics? Even MJ, with as many accolades as he got, would argue that there isn’t. Recognizing this, the Air Jordan 5 Retro “Olympic” commemorates the 2016 Summer Games in Rio de Janeiro with a sleek and evocative design. Its white leather upper celebrates timeless style, accentuated by contrasting black accents for a touch of boldness. Inspired by the iconic medal podium, the translucent outsole boasts an eye-catching ice-blue hue. This design is taken to the next level by a gold metallic tongue, which pays homage to the coveted first-place medals (let’s not forget that MJ has a couple of these in his trophy room). This shoe embodies the spirit of victory and achievement – something every athlete longs for.
17. Air Jordan 5 Low “Doernbecher”
We’re going a little low this time, but it’s for an extraordinary and meaningful reason. Marking a highly anticipated comeback, the iconic Air Jordan 5 Low receives a vibrant makeover for its 17th Doernbecher Freestyle iteration. Designed in collaboration with seven talented young patients from the OHSU Doernbecher Children’s Hospital, this version showcases beautiful artistic expression and resilience. Michael Wilson’s inspirational motto, “Take Flight,” adorns the shoe as a powerful symbol of overcoming challenges. There are other hidden details – playful, too – like a shark motif on the tongue and eyes peeking through the netting. This reminds us that we’re in the realm of the young ones, and they have something to say. This release captures the imagination and will resonate with sneaker enthusiasts and art lovers alike.
16. TROPHY ROOM x Air Jordan 5 “Ice Blue”
The Air Jordan 5 Retro Trophy Room “Ice Blue” boasts a striking design featuring a dominant ice blue suede upper contrasted with vibrant pops of University Red and metallic gold accents. The white midsole adds a clean foundation, while the translucent outsole offers a peek into the inner workings of the shoe. Red adds flair to the sock liner and adorns the Jumpman logo on the tongue, further complemented by a unique edition number displayed on the interior. Turning to the heel, the classic Jumpman logo is rendered in black alongside Michael Jordan’s signature number 23. It’s all about the heritage, baby. This limited-edition sneaker was released in May 2019.
15. Air Jordan 5 “Red Suede”
Sometimes, a simple name that reflects what a thing is does the job. No fancy caption is needed. Drawing inspiration from the legendary red and black flight suits of the 1990s and the much-loved 2009 Air Jordan 5 “Raging Bull,” the “Red Suede” takes the classic silhouette to a new level. It was released in July 2017, and it has a luxurious University Red suede upper, offering unparalleled comfort and a timeless aesthetic. Of course, you’ll see the black “shark teeth” detailing, while the 3M reflective tongue will shimmer when placed under light. Completing the design is an ice-white translucent outsole, providing a modern touch and showcasing the inner workings of the shoe. This release isn’t just a nod to the past, but it’s also a contemporary masterpiece that blends heritage with innovation.
14. Air Jordan 5 “Wings”
Jordan Brand adds a vibrant new chapter to its “Wings” collection, an initiative promoting education and community development for young people, with the launch of the Air Jordan 5 “Wings.” The 5 iteration joins the acclaimed bronzed Air Jordan 1 and sleek Air Jordan 12 (black/white/gold). Made from white leather, the upper canvas is a visual party thrown to celebrate Chicago’s diverse neighbourhoods through unique hand-drawn illustrations. Each shoe features a bespoke design, ensuring individuality and collectability. The distinctive theme continues with semi-translucent mint green Wings lace locks and side panels, which illuminate in the dark like in the “Red Suede” above. A 3M reflective tongue tab and embroidered Jumpman logos add subtle hints of luxury, while a special message embedded within the tongue and an icy outsole pamper the discerning sneaker enthusiast.
13. Air Jordan 5 “Shattered Backboard”
Didn’t you think “Shaq” when you saw the name of this colourway? I don’t blame you if you did, but this one has nothing to do with the Big Diesel. The Air Jordan 5 Retro “Shattered Backboard” presents a fascinating reimagining, marrying the aesthetic of the Air Jordan 1 with the beloved structure of the Air Jordan 5. Drawing inspiration from the “Shattered Backboard” colourway, the shoe features a crisp white leather upper accented by vibrant Total Orange hues. Take note: the traditional side netting is replaced with a translucent mesh panel, adding a unique and contemporary touch to the design. In addition, a reflective silver tongue proudly displays the classic Jumpman logo in Total Orange, echoed on the polyurethane midsole that incorporates a visible Air unit for enhanced cushioning. All this is grounded by a rugged herringbone rubber outsole, ensuring you have all the grip you need on any surface.
12. Air Jordan 5 “Laney”
The Air Jordan 5 Retro Low “Laney” was released as a homage to Michael Jordan’s alma mater, E.A. Laney High School in Wilmington, North Carolina. This version revisits and, to some extent, reimagines the original 2000 design, featuring a white leather upper accented with Varsity Royal and Maize hues reminiscent of the school’s team colours. The semi-transparent outsole boasts an icy blue tint, echoing a modern aesthetic. A signature detail can be located on the heel, where a proud, bold “23” pays tribute to Jordan’s iconic number. This release isn’t just about footwear. Through it, we see Jordan’s formative years remembered and honoured. He wouldn’t have become the giant he later grew to be had it not been for the foundation laid for him and the people who believed in him. Corny? Yes, of course. True and still one of the best Air Jordan 5 colourways of all time? Indeed.
11. Air Jordan 5 “What The?”
Can all the extroverts throw their hands in the air? Jordan Brand unveils a unique tribute to the Air Jordan 5: the “What The?” colourway to mark three decades of iconic design. This limited-edition release goes beyond just being a simple colourway; it chooses to be larger than life, opting for a meticulously crafted blend of materials and details from some of the most celebrated non-original Air Jordan 5 colourways. The “What The?” lives up to its name, presenting a visually striking mismatched design. Each shoe boasts its distinct look, referencing releases like the Tokyo, Shanghai, Raging Bull, Bel-Air, Laser, Green Bean, Olive, and Quai 54. The right shoe features yellow suede reminiscent of the Tokyo 5 and a brilliant purple and blue speckled midsole, which will remind fans of the Bel-Air 5. The interior has a patterned design inspired by the Jordan 5 Olive. Jumping over to the left shoe, we find a homage to the Raging Bull 5 with fiery red suede, juxtaposed against a black, grey and lime green sole with Quai 54 written all over it. The mismatching doesn’t end there but extends to the heel embroidery, featuring nods to both the Shanghai and Tokyo models. Frosty translucent outsoles and 3M reflective tongues complete this celebratory mashup. This one isn’t for the faint-hearted.
RELATED: Air Jordan 5 “Timberwolves” Is A Beautiful Colorway
10. Air Jordan 5 “Oregon”
The Air Jordan 5 “Oregon” honours the University of Oregon football team. Cloaked in the team’s signature apple green and yellow, this release brings back the classic 90s silhouette with a vibrant and modern appeal. The premium green leather is contrasted by pops of bright yellow – a connection to the energy and spirit of the Ducks. The design retains the Jordan 5’s signature midsole with its “shark tooth” detailing, ensuring the sneaker remains instantly recognizable. What more can we say about this colourway? It’s all about respect.
9. Air Jordan 5 “Burgundy”
In 2006, Jordan Brand released a bunch of fresh new takes on the classic Air Jordan 5. Among them, the “Burgundy” stood out with its rich, dark red that oozed premium vibes. Unlike popular releases like the Green Beans or Lasers, it wasn’t about loud colours but a smooth, sophisticated look. Fast forward to 2023, and Jordan decided to bring back the “Burgundy” 5s. The secret sauce is still there, and the designers still need to mess with it, which we love. They kept the speckled midsole, the fantastic see-through details, and even the reflective tongue, delivering a faithful reproduction of the original. This colourway is pure class.
8. Supreme x Air Jordan 5 Retro ‘Black’
Nike and Supreme teamed up for a limited-edition release: the Air Jordan 5 Retro “Black.” This special-edition shoe combined the classic Jordan 5 design with Supreme’s signature style. The design showcased a sleek, monochromatic black upper, accentuated by Supreme’s instantly recognizable logo woven into the mesh. An additional nod to the brand’s heritage came in the form of the embroidered “1994” on the heel, marking the year Supreme was founded. Using premium materials and meticulous construction ensured superior comfort and long-lasting durability.
7. Supreme x Air Jordan 5 Desert Camo
Similar to the colourway we just discussed, the Supreme x Air Jordan 5 “Desert Camo” sneaker is a nod to the iconic fashion and culture of the 1990s. With its bold colourway and the number 94 also prominently displayed, it pays homage to the year Supreme was founded. This era inspired its unique style. This collaboration between two iconic brands is a must-have for sneakerheads and fashion enthusiasts. Supreme is as the name suggests, clearly deserving of a spot on this list of the best Air Jordan 5 colourways.
6. Air Jordan 5 “Transformers”
This super-limited sample pair offers a glimpse into an unexplored design direction, showcasing an opulent aesthetic built upon a glossy black leather upper. An embroidered “84” on the heel nods to the year Transformers captivated audiences. Optimus Prime’s signature red and blue peek out from the Jumpman tongue and shark overlay around the midsole. Adding a touch of playful intrigue, the translucent outsole glows, revealing a secret Transformers logo beneath the forefoot. The sneaker’s blend of premium materials, subtle references and playful touches makes it a real collector’s piece.
5. Air Jordan 5 “Tokyo T23”
The Air Jordan 5 Retro “Tokyo T23” has an upper that features a luxurious yellow suede, instantly reminiscent of the warmth and energy of Tokyo. Contrasting black and white accents on the midsole, lining and Jumpman logo add a touch of sophisticated balance. For a truly unique touch, a translucent outsole reveals glimpses of hidden depths, echoing the city’s layered character (if you want to understand this symbolism better, watch Parasite sometime). But the true secret lies on the heel, where intricate Japanese characters pay homage to the cultural heritage that inspires this design.
4. Air Jordan 5 Off-White Muslin
The Jordan 5 Retro Off-White Muslin is a stylish and versatile shoe designed by the late, great Virgil Abloh. It is a modern take on the classic Air Jordan 5 “Black Metallic” (coming up). It is perfect for pairing with utilitarian outfits. These kicks feature a black textile mesh upper with translucent netted panels and circular window inserts, giving it a unique and eye-catching look. It’s the perfect addition to any fashion-forward wardrobe and can be paired with various styles. There’s nothing quite like a perfect neutral pair of sneakers, so its clear why they earned their spot on the best Air Jordan 5 colourways of all time.
3. Air Jordan 5 “Grape”
The Air Jordan 5 Retro Grape returns with a fresh twist (it has had a few iterations before). This time, it features a fabulous mix of colours, including icy blue, white, and a new, bolder grape shade. Unlike the original, this version sports the Jumpman logo instead of the usual Air embroidery on the heel. Adding to the unique look are playful teal details and lace locks, all finishing off with a sleek translucent rubber outsole. This blend of old and new makes for a shoe worthy of any collector’s stash.
2. Air Jordan 5 “Fire Red”
The Fire Red AJ5 colourway is the perfect pick if you want to stand out. The white leather upper is complemented by bold red accents on the midsole, lining, and Jumpman logo, while black details and a transparent outsole complete the shoe’s design. In 2018, sneakerheads were treated to a blast from the past with the reissue of the Air Jordan 5 ‘Fire Red’. Initially released in 1990, these iconic kicks were a fan favourite, and the 2018 release brought back the original Nike Air branding on the heel, adding to its nostalgic appeal.
1. Air Jordan 5 “Black Metallic”
This is the one that we’ve all been waiting for. The Air Jordan 5 in the Black Metallic colourway is the perfect example of timeless sneaker design. First released in 1990, this AJ5 has become a must-have for any sneaker enthusiast. The shoe is bold and striking in every way, showcasing a brilliantly executed blend of classic design elements and contemporary accents. Made from premium black nubuck and featuring strategically placed breathable mesh panels, the upper is sophisticated yet functional. Lively pops of fire red on the tongue and heel make the sneaker feel young and vibrant, while the 3M reflective detailing on the tongue adds a touch of luxury. The Jumpman logo is prominently featured on both the tongue and outsole. Take a peek at the Nike Air logo on the heel. You’ll get a sense of the innovative cushioning technology within. Completing the design is a translucent icy blue outsole paired with contrasting metallic “shark teeth” on the midsole. This is – and will be – a classic shoe for a long time, so it seems like a no-brainer that it is number one on this list of the best Air Jordan 5 colourways of all time.
Now that you’ve gone through our list, what do you think? Did we leave any of your favourites out?
