The Air Jordan legacy boasts a long line of iconic sneakers, and the Air Jordan 17 holds a special place in that history. While retro releases haven’t been as frequent as with other Jordans, the occasional drop keeps these unique sneakers relevant for collectors and fans alike. This article lists and ranks some of the most sought-after Air Jordan 17 colourways, originals (OGs) and retro drops.
Air Jordan 17 History
Coming out in 2001 to coincide with Michael Jordan’s much-hyped return to the NBA, the AJ 17 was conceived by the mind of designer Wilson Smith III, who took it upon himself to channel His Airness’s on-court excellence and personal interests (namely jazz, Aston Martins and golf), to create a shoe that combined premium materials with pioneering technology like dual Tuned Air cushioning.
Though the early price point initially took many aback (they were, at the time, the most expensive Jays ever launched), the Air Jordan 17 could still carve its niche with its unique aesthetic and innovative features. It gave fans so many priceless and beloved Easter eggs like the jazz note shroud, the golf course on the outsole, not to mention the silver suitcase packaging and CD-ROM that came with the sneaker.
Though retros haven’t been commonplace, the Air Jordan 17 is part of the full Jordan line we’ve come to revere and enjoy. This shoe will always remind us that even if you walk away from the game, it will keep calling you back.
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14. Air Jordan 17 Mule “White Black”
The Mules were an oddity within the Jordan line. Departing from the traditional lace-up shoe, the Air Jordan 17 Mule was launched in 2002 as a slip-on version of the line. Though not universally loved by Jordan heads, the design prioritized convenience, featuring a laceless construction for effortless on-and-off wear. While not completely sold on the mule concept, we’ll give this a point for effort and for ensuring that the upper remained consistent with the original Air Jordan 17, incorporating a premium blend of leather and fabric for a balance of style and comfort.
Release date: 2002
Where to buy: The shoe is listed on GOAT, though no price is given.
13. Air Jordan 17 Retro “Countdown Pack”
This sneaker is part of Jordan Brand’s 2008 Countdown Pack. The mid-top silhouette keeps the original black and metallic silver colourway and features a premium nubuck upper. It includes a removable lace cover for a sleeker look while maintaining the core functionalities of the original design. This pack, officially known as the 17/6 Countdown Pack to celebrate the launch of the Air Jordan 23, also includes the Air Jordan 6 Retro “Carmine.
Release date: 2008
Where to buy: Marked as out of stock on the main resale sites, you may be able to get yourself a pair of pre-worn ones on eBay.
12. Air Jordan 17 OG Low “Lightning”
Worn by the GOAT during his penultimate NBA All-Star appearance in 2002, the Air Jordan 17 Low “Lightning,” also known as the “All-Star” edition, features a black Dynamic Fit sleeve contrasting with a pristine white leather upper. The shoe’s namesake “Lightning” accents, a vibrant shade of yellow, add a striking visual element. This shoe had the dubious honour of being the one he wore when Jordan missed a dunk after a wide-open transition pass, much to the other players’ and fans’ amusement. We love this shoe’s catchy accents, vibrancy, and unique sleeve for a snug fit.
Release date: 2022
Where to buy: @zsneakerheadz reported on IG that the re-release of this sneaker has been pushed to the summer of 2024, so we’ll have to wait and see. The official price is listed as $300, and judging from the debates within the sneaker community on sites like Reddit, price is still a hot topic.
11. Air Jordan 17 Retro “Rainbow”
A splash of bright colour never hurts, especially when rocking a pair of sneakers from an iconic line like this… if you can get it. This unreleased prototype initially envisioned for the exclusive “Rainbow” collection in 2012, was about reimagination. The project reimagined each Air Jordan silhouette made up to that year, featuring a monochromatic upper with contrasting white branding, laces and outsole. The upper is presented in a singular shade, which allows the design details to take centre stage. While this show was never officially released, the prototype allowed fans to glimpse the creative process behind the Air Jordan 17 line, precisely what we like about this one.
Release date: 2012 (this colour sample was not released)
Where to buy: Unavailable unless you know someone who knows someone.
10. Air Jordan 17 OG Low “Black Chrome”
This court-ready, low-top profile features a black leather upper contrasted by a chrome accent on the heel counter. The “Black Chrome” is all about premium materials, with a tonal snakeskin design on the eyestay and collar, which we love. This model was also the first-ever blow-moulded Max Air unit implementation in the Jordan collection, ensuring exceptional cushioning and responsiveness while hooping.
Release date: 2002
Where to buy: This shoe is available below market price on GOAT.
9. Air Jordan 17 OG “Black Metallic Silver”
What we get with this colourway is a sophisticated black upper with metallic silver accents placed throughout the shoe, such as on the eyelets, heel stabilizer, and midfoot overlay. There is also a special edition version of the colourway called the Air Jordan 17 OG ‘Black Metallic Silver’ Special Box, which will set you back a few hundred dollars more. The sneaker is very similar in appearance to the “Countdown Pack” (above), with differences mainly in the accented areas. We’ll take this one for the same reasons we like the CDP.
Release date: 2002
Where to buy: You won’t find this one at the official price anywhere. If there’s a re-release and your fingers are quicker than the speed of the internet (and resellers), you’ll be in luck. Otherwise, expect to pay at least $500 on sites like GOAT.
8. Air Jordan 17 Low “Mike Bibby” PE
If you have not heard of Mike Bibby, looking him up may be worth your time, especially if you’re a fan of the intersection of sneakers and basketball. One of the original members of Team Jordan, Bibby played a respectable 14 seasons in the NBA and has had more than his fair share of Jordan player exclusives. The Air Jordan 17 Low “Mike Bibby” PE is one of them and deserves its place on this list, considering it’s the only PE we have here.
Release date: N/A
Where to buy: It’s all about who you know.
7. Air Jordan 17 OG “College Blue”
Also known as the “Wizards” to coincide with MJ’s return to the floor and his debut with the Washington Wizards, this sneaker marked the initial release of the Air Jordan 17. It was designed for peak performance and had a white leather upper with TPU accents in College Blue. These reinforcements offered enhanced protection to the toe guard and arch, ideal for the demands of the basketball court.
Release date: 2002
Where to buy: This colourway is currently out of stock on sites like GOAT, StockX and Flight Club. Expect to pay upwards of $700 for the sneakers.
6. Air Jordan 17 OG Low GS’ UNC’ 2002
True to brand form, Michael Jordan’s alma mater, the University of North Carolina, got a shout-out with this colourway. This low-top version of the Air Jordan 17 features an upper crafted from premium white leather, with a tumbled texture and micro-perforations near the collar. University Blue accents are placed on the midsole, heel stabilizer and various design elements, including the extended inner sleeve.
Release date: 2002
Where to buy: This tribute colourway is available for a premium on GOAT and other resale sites.
5. Air Jordan 17+ Retro ‘Copper’ 2016
So, this isn’t the original “Copper” Air Jordan 17 but is a retro release from 2016. Also known as “Crocs” for its unique details, this shoe features a white leather upper with black crocodile skin accents on the tongue and heel. To add pops of colour, the designers focused on the bright blue lace lock with a white Jumpman and metallic copper accents on the eyelets, heel and branding throughout the shoe. Beyond looks, it’s also about comfort and performance, with a white midsole and a grippy herringbone patterned outsole.
Release date: 2016
Where to buy: The sneaker seems more widely available than some of the colourways we’ve covered here, though it can also be found on prominent resale sites like StockX, going for below retail price.
4. Air Jordan 17+ Retro “Bulls”
On January 4, 2001, Michael Jordan became only the 4th player in NBA history to reach 30,000 career points. It just so happened that he was playing for the Washington Wizards against his former team, the Chicago Bulls. The Air Jordan 17+ Retro “Bulls” sneaker was unveiled to commemorate this outstanding achievement. The shoe’s stealthy black is broken by crimson accents on the eyelets, lace-locks and Jumpman logo. A dark red crocodile print is crafted from patent leather, adding a layer of luxury. A crisp white midsole adds a welcome contrast and salutes the Chicago colourway. A red heel counter gives us a burst of colour, leaving a lasting impression.
Release date: 2016
Where to buy: This beautiful sneaker retailed for $250 when it was officially released in May 2016. To get a pair now, you’ll need to hunt for it on resale platforms like GOAT, StockX, and others. However, you may be able to get it for a reasonable price.
3. Trophy Room x Air Jordan 17 Retro “Cool Grey”
Trophy Room, the brainchild of Michael Jordan’s son Marcus and Jordan Brand, come together to pay homage to the 17’s cutting-edge technology and features. This beautiful collab has a premium grey suede upper, removable midfoot cover (also crafted from the same luxurious suede), and black accents on the midsole, lining and tongue.
The pièce de resistance on this colourway is a gleaming metallic gold heel counter, elevating this Air Jordan 17 to a level of luxury. Basketball is a sport where creating separation between yourself and the opposition is one of the objectives, and this sneaker does just that. We love its unique texture and the use of muted but stunning colours.
Release date: 2017
Where to buy: Though the official retail price is $275, you’re more likely to buy yourself a pair for a cool $697 on sites like StockX. You could even pay well into the thousands for it.
2. Air Jordan 17 OG “Varsity Red”
Despite their legendary status, we hope nobody’s catching feelings about these not being number 1 on the list. Released in a simple white and Varsity Red colourway, this Air Jordan 17 is part of the inaugural 2002 production line. Michael Jordan wore this silhouette on his return to the NBA as a Washington Wizard. Apart from this historical significance, the shoe is remembered because it incorporated cutting-edge performance features that marked a massive turning point for the Jordan Brand.
Release date: 2002
Where to buy: These were the very first 17s MJ wore coming out of retirement. Expect to pay a pretty penny on resale sites whenever they become available—anywhere from the mid-hundreds to the thousands of dollars.
1. SoleFly x Air Jordan 17 Retro Low “Reverse Lightning”
Born from a collaboration that has given us much to love, the 2018 Air Jordan 17 Retro Low “Lightning” by SoleFly is a limited-edition release that only gave the world 2,300 pairs. It honours the Low “Lightning” release already featured here, but as is to be expected, SoleFly throws a twist into the mix. In this colourway, the vibrant “Lightning” yellow is king, bringing energy to the upper, crafted from tumbled leather. A touch of luxury comes with the black lace collar, which has a texture reminiscent of ostrich skin. Again, we get the dynamic-fit sleeve, which we thought was a standout feature of the “Lightning”, while metallic silver accents add a dose of sophistication. You can spot the unique SoleFly branding embroidered on the heel in case you forget that this is an exclusive collaboration. A black outsole completes the look.
Release date: 2018
Where to buy: Unfortunately, this stunning shoe is no longer available on SoleFly’s website, but if you’re willing to put on your gloves and fight, you can compete for it on the resale market, where you’ll pay at least $700.
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What are your favourite Air Jordan 17 sneakers from this list?
