With 40 years now behind its back, the Air Jordan Brand has issued countless sneakers in a number of colourways, some of which have become more memorable and sought after than others. From the colourways that kicked things off, like the Bred, Chicago and UNC, to all-time favourites like the White Cement and Cool Grey styles, we’ve rounded up the best Jordan colourways every sneakerhead needs in their collection.
Bred Colourway
It wouldn’t be an overstatement to say that Jordan Brand’s black and red sneakers are the best the brand has ever released. Whether it’s the shoe that started it all, the Jordan 1 “Banned/Bred”, the most-loved sneaker in the Jumpman lineup, the Jordan 4 “Bred”, or the sneaker MJ wore during his 1996 NBA championship playoffs run, the Jordan 11 “Bred”, nothing beats the look, feel, and history of these iconic black and red shoes inspired by the Bulls team colours.
Chicago Colourway
Almost as seductive as a good black and red colour combo is the striking mix of red and white with just a touch of black. While the Jordan 2, 13 and 14 are standouts in the popular Chicago colourway, the Jordan 1 model is inarguably the silhouette that wears it best. We’ll take the high-tops, low-tops, reimagined looks, and every single collab.
UNC Colourway
The “UNC” look is another signature colourway that every Jordan fan should have. It was inspired by Michael Jordan’s days at the University of North Carolina, with a combination of Carolina blue and white that has become somewhat iconic in the sneaker world. Whether you prefer the AJ1s, AJ3s, AJ11s, or anything in between, this colourway is worth grabbing. You should probably just get multiple pairs.
Cool Grey Colourway
The Cool Grey colourway may have little to do with Michael Jordan’s career, but it sure does make for a good-looking pair of sneakers. The colourway was first introduced to the Air Jordan line in 2001 with the release of the Air Jordan 11 “Cool Grey”. However, thanks to its popularity, the Jumpman Label decided to add it to a number of its other famous silhouettes, including the Jordan 1, Jordan 4, and Jordan 9. It’s easily one of the best non-OG Jordan colourways.
Black Cat Colourway
Nothing truly beats the versatility that a pair of all-black Jordans offers. Mike’s “Black Cat” nickname, bestowed upon him for his smooth, fierce, and agile playing style, inspired the stealthy colourway. You’ll find the look on plenty of fan-favourite models, including the AJ 13, AJ 3, and AJ 4.
White Cement Colourway
Sure, the Jordan 3 may have been the model to popularise the white and cement grey colourway back in 1988, but the Jordan 4 “White Cement” is just as legendary. That said, the classic combo has been reimagined for a few other Jordan silhouettes over the years, including the Jordan 1. Something about the white leather with those grey speckled/elephant print details is so undeniably fresh.
Shadow Colourway
The black and grey “Shadow” colourway first debuted in 1985 on the Jordan 1 silhouette, and its versatile look quickly became a fan favourite. The brand has since introduced the colour scheme to the Jordan 10, which happens to be making a return in 2025. Whichever pair you choose, this colourway is a big win.
Black/White Colourway
Black and white has always been one of the most timeless and versatile colour combinations, so it should be no surprise that sneakerheads love the classic pairing on their Jordans as well. There are plenty of incredible silhouettes dressed in black and white, ranging from the Air Jordan 1 to the latest Air Jordan 40 model. If we had to choose just one of these colourways, we’d say the Jordan 11 “Concord” is by far the best of the offerings.
Mocha Colourway
Jordan’s Mocha sneakers are like coffee in the morning—you just can’t live without them. Thankfully, there are a number of options that feature the perfect rich brown hue, from Travis Scott’s premium Jordan 4 and Jordan 1 kicks to the brand’s more affordable options like the AJ1 low and high pairs and the beautiful AJ3 colourway. Trust us, your collection needs a Mocha fix.
Court Purple Colourway
The Jumpman Label has certainly not been stingy with purple colourways, but the Court Purple pairs have to be their best. Whether it’s the Jordan 1s or the Jordan 13, these purple sneakers will always have sneakerheads feeling like kings (or queens).
