The Air Jordan 14 is a beloved silhouette. Sometimes referred to as the “Last Shot”, one of its most popular colourways, it was released in 1998 during Michael Jordan’s last season with the Bulls. This line of sneakers is still considered one of the best ever produced by Jordan Brand. You’ll often find it featured on best-of lists online and within the sneaker community. Today, we want to pay tribute to this fantastic silhouette and list – for your pleasure, of course – the best Air Jordan 14 Retro kicks of all time, unnumbered and unranked. As you read through this list, you may find that you disagree with some of the inclusions or exclusions, so let us know your thoughts on the best Air Jordan 14 Retro sneakers in the comments.
14. Supreme x Air Jordan 14 “White/University Red”
Streetwear giant Supreme teamed up with Jordan Brand for the first time since 2015, giving the classic Air Jordan 14 a fabulous makeover. They took the original white and red colourway and built on it, using smooth white leather for most of the shoe. And that’s where the simplicity ends with this one. Supreme added a row of shiny metal studs across the top of the sneaker to make it their own, giving it a unique and edgy look. Some university red accents, such as the SUPREME branding, take the place of the Jordan branding you would typically see at the top of the tongue label. These collab Jordans are perfect for streetwear fans who love classic shoes with a modern twist.
13. Air Jordan 14 Retro “Ferrari”
The inspiration behind the “Reverse Ferrari” (which we’ll discuss a little further down), the Air Jordan 14 “Ferrari” swaps out the usual leather for some sleek, varsity red suede on the upper but keeps the black and carbon fibre elements that make these sneakers look like a sports car, including the teeth on the midsole. They also kept the chrome grill on this one to pay tribute to the Ferrari, as well as with the bright yellow crest that shows the Jumpman logo. This detail embodies the spirit of the Italian automaker’s signature design language, seamlessly integrated into the Jordan silhouette. If you glance too quickly, you might think it’s the emblem for the car itself. This colourway was released in 2014 as a limited edition during the World Basketball Festival in Chicago.
12. Air Jordan 14 Jumpman Z
The 14 silhouette undergoes a modern transformation with the Jumpman Z. On the upper, premium suede, perforated breathability at the toe box and intricate cross-hatch detailing on the heel. To add a contemporary touch, a translucent mesh shroud is secured by a lateral zipper. The tongue of the sneakers is still present underneath all of that, but only the upper part peaks out from beneath these new details. The whole upper is a muted, mossy green. This recurring design element is in Jordan Brand’s 2018 releases, like the Jumpman Hustle. While looks are at the forefront, performance remains a priority, too, with encapsulated Air-Sole units promising comfort even during intense play. This exciting revision offers a fresh perspective on a beloved classic. It again appeals to those looking for a modern twist on traditional Jordan style.
11. Air Jordan 14 Retro “Reverse Ferrari”
After the Retro “Ferrari” came the “Reverse Ferrari”. In June 2019, the Air Jordan 14 “Reverse Ferrari” reimagined the classic collaboration we’d seen and adored before with a striking colourway update. So why is this a reverse? Instead of being all-red with black and yellow detailing like the Air Jordan 14 “Ferrari”, it swaps the red out for yellow and the yellow detailing for red detailing, creating a perfect opposite that still looks like it could be a sports car itself. Premium leather can be found on the upper, adorned with the Jumpman seals and “23” heel embroidery – all this as a symbol of exclusivity and heritage.
For passionate sneaker enthusiasts and admirers of automotive design, the “Reverse Ferrari” represents an opportunity to own a piece of history reimagined for the modern era.
10. CLOT x Air Jordan 14 Low “Terracotta”
This list would only be comprehensive if it included one of the most exciting collaborations that Nike has, and that is with Edison Chen’s streetwear brand, CLOT. As usual, Chen swaps out the standard material that you would expect on an Air Jordan sneaker for a tan suede with dots and stitching that looks very similar to some of their other collaborations with the brand, inspired by the detailing of protective armour seen on that of the Terracotta Army. However, the stunning Chinese elements continue, as the heel includes a Chinese knot crafted from a red thread, which is worked through a traditional Chinese coin. Additionally, an idiom is included for prosperity and happiness, creating a stunning and meaningful pair of sneakers and one of the best Air Jordan 14 retro sneakers of all time.
9. Air Jordan 14 “Oregon Ducks”
This is one of the newest Air Jordan 14 sneakers on the list and one of the most limited-release pairs, having only had 275 pairs made on launch and each shoe individually numbered. Inspired by Tinker Hatfield’s alma mater, the University of Oregon, Hatfield always remembered his roots, creating many player-exclusive sneakers for the university over the years. The Air Jordan 14 undergoes a spirited transformation in this limited-edition collaboration with the university. A muted grey suede upper serves as the base for pops of the Ducks’ green and neon yellow. “Oregon” and “Ducks” are emblazoned on the tongues, while the beloved Duck mascot can be found on the shield badge. Replacing the traditional “23” on the heels, a bold “O” adds a final touch of school spirit.
8. Air Jordan 14 Retro “Doernbecher”
Doernbecher Children’s Hospital often finds itself on many of our best-of lists, not only because of the exquisite and unique designs but also because of the moving stories that come with most of the shoe designers. Ethan Ellis is the brilliant mind behind this inspired idea, and he combines elements from the Texas Christian University’s football team, the Horned Frogs, with the various aspects of Ellis’ treatment against a congenital heart defect. The design includes the number of heart surgeries he has had to endure, the city of his heart transplant, and the names of the hospitals he has stayed at along the way on the insoles of the sneakers. The sneakers’ texture stands out, with a slight colour shift on the upper and a significant colour shift on the midsole, all with black, white, and predominantly purple through-line connections. This is a real collector’s item for lovers of the 14 and one of the best Air Jordan 14 retro sneakers of all time.
7. Air Jordan 14 “Light Graphite”
Featuring chiselled lines and perforation, these sneakers are designed to look as aerodynamic as possible, only helped by their mesh vents. The colourway includes Light Graphite on most of the leather upper, Mid Navy on the vents, and black on the teeth-like midsole as well as the heel and the inner of the sneakers. The laces and outsole are stark white to contrast the rest of the darker ensemble.
6. Jayson Tatum’s Ford Mustang-Inspired Air Jordan 14 PE
Boston Celtics franchise player and NBA All-Star Jayson Tatum, known for his love of unique Air Jordan sneakers, rocked a personal pair during a playoff game tunnel walk. These weren’t just any Jordans, but a custom Air Jordan 14 inspired by his prized possession: a classic Ford Mustang. Deuce’s Dad’s Mustang boasts a sleek black with chrome accents, and this theme translates beautifully onto the sneakers. The toe boxes, heels and collars shine in black patent leather, while racing-inspired details add a touch of speed. The details continue. There’s smooth black suede on the outside, mimicking the Mustang’s exterior, and luxurious quilted leather on the inside, reminiscent of the car’s comfortable seats. A special tribute to Deuce sits on the back of the tongue – no surprise since it’s a known fact just how much Tatum adores his little boy.
5. Air Jordan 14 Retro “Candy Cane”
Borrowing from the chiselled and perforated look of the “Light Graphite” that we saw earlier, these sneakers are a perfect combination of white, red and the slightest hint of black, giving it that classic peppermint sweet or candy cane look, hence the nickname. The bold mudguard and teeth are a bright, shiny red that almost looks like sugar candy, but make no mistake, these sneakers are created for speed and durability on the court, just like all Air Jordan 14s. The outsole also features the signature herringbone tread to optimize traction to the hardwood flooring. At the same time, the rest of the sneakers is breathable and lightweight and one of the best Air Jordan 14 retro sneakers of all time.
4. Air Jordan 14 “Low Ginger”
You might think this is just a muted version of the “Reverse Ferrari”, but you would sadly be mistaken. This is another pair of sneakers directly influenced by one of Michael Jordan’s favourite sports cars, this time his Ferrari F355. This sneaker offers a nostalgic nod to the low-top launched in 1999, blending classic design with contemporary materials. This iteration features a premium leather upper in a subtly warm “Light Ginger” colourway. Contrasting black and crisp white accents enhance the overall aesthetic. At the same time, the signature Jumpman logo can be found on both the sides and the rear. Completing the unique design is a two-tone rubber sole, designed to ensure comfort and traction whether you’re out for a night on the town or hooping with friends.
3. AJ14 Retro Low WMNS “Shocking Pink”
Shocking is the right word for this colourway, as you can’t help but feel energized just looking at it. The bold fuchsia upper is made of a hairy suede that is slightly pre-worn, giving it a massive contrast to the perfectly sleek details of the shank, the shark teeth’ bright orange midsole, the soft pink outsole, and the black accents that can be found on parts of the sole, the laces, the tongue and the lining of the sneakers. In addition, the bright pink metallic shank plate on this pair of sneakers comprises carbon fibre, giving the sneakers improved stability. In contrast, the soft pink underfoot has a herringbone traction pattern for the perfect grip, easily making it one of the best Air Jordan 14 retro sneakers of all time.
2. AJ14 Low WMNS “Metallic Silver”
If you are looking for a pair of sneakers that gives you the chrome feel of the sportscars in the late 1990s, look no further. These sneakers are a stunning bright and even mildly reflective silver from the toe cap to the heel. Although not as reflective, the midsole and outsole are a similar shade of silver, while the laces, lining, Jumpman shield, shank, and other details are all a contrasting black to give these sneakers a sophisticated finish. It isn’t often that you find that the toe cap is separated from the rest of the upper on the outer side, but that appears to be the case with these sneakers, giving them a premium feel with a bit of edge without changing things up so much that they look like they should be separate from the rest of the sneaker line.
1. Air Jordan 14 Retro “Last Shot” 2018
Though we initially promised you an unranked and unnumbered list, we’ve left this one for last because it’s the GOAT. The Air Jordan 14 will always have the name of the sneakers Michael Jordan wore when he made that clutch go-ahead shot in the 1998 NBA Finals. While his sneakers turned out to be an early prototype, they were later released in all their glory for the use (and admiration) of basketball players and sneakerheads worldwide. They were later re-released in a slightly updated but retro style in 2018, bringing us the sneakers on this list.
The shoe is adorned in a timeless black and red colourway that pays homage to the Chicago Bulls’ legacy. This version, however, elevates the design with a “chiseled” leather upper, giving the silhouette a sleek, aerodynamic quality reminiscent of a high-performance sports car.
This retro brilliantly preserves the essence of the original: the red Jumpman logo remains prominently displayed on the heel and tongue. At the same time, the recognizable Ferrari-inspired crest blesses the midfoot with a touch of refined luxury. The signature “shark teeth” detailing accentuates the midsole near the outer toe, ensuring the silhouette remains instantly recognizable. This is, after all, a classic, and one should only mess with them a little. Thankfully, the designers stayed true to this one.
Honourable Mentions
Air Jordan 14 “Gym Red”
Striking in appearance with its bold and daring colours, this is a shoe intended to make a statement. When it first came out, it caused quite a stir and divided sneakerheads. But then again, most significant things will do that, won’t they? Available in red, black and off-white, this shoe captures a piece of history, remembering the franchise where MJ achieved greatness. They’re beautiful shoes to look at, though that shouldn’t be mistaken to mean that they fall short when it comes to functionality. You get a luxurious red nubuck upper, black suede toe, and all the other elements that make the 14 a classic. If you are looking for a colourway that will turn heads, this is the one you’ll get.
Air Jordan 14 “Winterized”
Made with the fall and winter seasons in mind, this sneaker is built to withstand the harsher months. The “Winterized” evokes an earthy feel with its colour scheme and brings Travis Scott’s past Jordan 1 collaborations to mind. A rich “Archeo Brown” covers the base, protected by water-resistant suede. Striking black accents frame the tongue and heel, while classic Ferrari-inspired badges add a touch of luxury. It’s nice to see cherry red laces and Jordan branding popping against the black. Inside the sneaker, there’s a chocolate brown hue carrying on the warm theme as it lines the interior and crafts the midsole. This richness contrasts with the stark white midsole and the stealthy black outsole, completing the look with a grounded touch.
Air Jordan 14 “DMP”
The “DMP” here stands for the Defining Moments Pack, a set of a 13 and a 14 that celebrate some of Michael Jordan’s most outstanding achievements on the court. The “DMP” recreates his shoes on the court, using sleek black leather for the upper and adding a shiny gold midfoot plate for extra flair. Even the Jumpman logo on the ankle gets the golden treatment, and you know that whenever you see gold, you’re talking about championships and winning. The “DMP” isn’t just about looks, though. To celebrate Jordan’s chip in 1998, the usual ’23’ on the heel has been replaced with ’98’. And if you take a look inside, you’ll find a special message on each tongue: ‘They Can’t Win’ on the left and ‘Until We Quit’ on the right. Both are written in vibrant red to represent the Chicago Bulls’ colours.
That brings us to the end of our list of the best Air Jordan 14 retro sneakers ever. Let us know if we’ve left any out that you feel deserve to be here, or worse, included any that you strongly feel deserve not to be.
Tell us, which Air Jordan 14 Retro sneaker do you think is the best?
