Jordan Brand hasn’t stopped digging in the vault. In 2026, they’re pulling out one of the early-2000s sneakers that most of us never got to see. The Air Jordan 17 Low “Black Patent” is set to make its shiny comeback in the Fall, reworking the original 2002 “Black/Chrome” colourway with a glossy new update.
First reported by Sneaker Files and @zsneakerheadz, the upcoming pair keeps the silhouette’s iconic design but trades the smooth leather upper of the OG for an all-patent finish. As one Instagram user already warned, “One crease in that toe box and that’s it.” Another was more optimistic, admitting, “I think I like em,” while someone else called it early with, “The patent leather toe-box is creasing already.” The consensus is basically that these sneakers look incredible… until they get all creased up.
The rest of the shoe sticks closely to the blueprint. You still get those chrome accents on the heel and the croc-textured eyestays that give the 17 Low its distinctive flair.
Recently, Jordan Brand has been quietly pushing its post-Michael Jordan catalogue more, trying to build momentum beyond the 14. For years, models like the Air Jordan 17 have sat in the shadows, overshadowed by their more “hyped” predecessors. But with the recent success of the Lightning and University Blue 17 Lows in 2024 and 2025, it’s clear the demand for the 17s is there. Those releases sold really fast.
The 17 has always been a very special release. It came in a briefcase, drew inspiration from jazz music and luxury cars, and cost a then-hefty $200 back in 2002. It wasn’t your typical basketball shoe. That’s probably why it aged so well.
While we’re still waiting on official retail pricing and a confirmed style code, the Air Jordan 17 Low “Black Patent” is expected to release through select Jordan Brand retailers and Nike.com in Fall 2026.
RELATED: The Top 15 Best Air Jordans Still to Release in 2025
