There’s so much going on in the sneaker realm this year (from the return of coveted retros to big-name collaborations) that it’s easy to miss certain hidden gems expected to drop. These underrated Nike and Air Jordans may not receive as much hype as others in the 2025 line up, but they are definitely worth a second look.
Air Jordan 1 Method of Make “Metallic Silver”
This women’s exclusive Air Jordan 1 low is part of Jordan Brand’s Method of Make series, which draws inspiration from high fashion. However, instead of embellishing the model with leather stitching inspired by handbags or puffy satin materials borrowed from puffer coats as with previous iterations, the V3 design layers the AJ1 low in diamond-knit mesh, cutout leather, and 3D Swoosh logos. Although there hasn’t been much hype surrounding these futuristic sneakers, the unique materials and design elements make them worth checking out. Find out more about the Air Jordan 1 Method of Make “Metallic Silver”.
Air Jordan 1 Low “Sail”
The Jumpman Label has a full lineup of women’s exclusive sneakers planned for 2025. However, these ‘Sail’ Air Jordan 1 Low sneakers have slipped under the radar when comparing them to other releases on said list. Sure, it’s a simple colourway, with sail, light grey, and blush pink dressing the upper. But the exquisite touches of pearls, beads, sequins, and turquoise stones add intrigue to the overall design. Find out more about the Air Jordan 1 Low “Sail”.
Nike Free Forward Moc N7
Nike is bringing back the distinct Free Forward Moc 2 N7 for Summer 2025, featuring the original black suede and grey textile uppers with turquoise stitching. While many sneakerheads are unsure where to place this unusual running shoe/moccasin/loafer hybrid, its versatile design and distinct look make it easy to transition from a morning run to a boardroom meeting. Find out more about the Nike Free Forward Moc N7.
Air Jordan 3 “Starfish”
The Air Jordan 3 “Starfish” may not be what many sneakerheads expected, but the canvas uppers and suede detailing are doing a great impersonation of the Nina Chanel Abney AJ3 collab from 2024. Sure, the two-toned uppers may not be everyone’s cup of tea, but we think the colour contrast screams summer vibes. Find out more about the Air Jordan 3 “Starfish”.
Air Jordan 11 “Sport Royal”
There are plenty of AJ 11 offerings for the model’s 30th milestone this year. With all the hype around the return of the Gamma Blue colourway and the Jumpman’s special “Rare Air” release, it appears that the “Sport Royal” edition may not be getting the attention it deserves. However, the sleek white uppers and royal blue patent leather mudguard make for a classic and clean look that shouldn’t be overlooked. Find out more about the Air Jordan 11 “Sport Royal”.
Air Jordan 1 Low “Worn Blue”
Jordan Brand plans to introduce several denim-inspired sneakers in 2025, including the “Worn Blue” Air Jordan 1 Low. The design is a unique take on JB’s go-to denim sneaker offerings, mixing a pale blue denim base with contrasting white leather overlays. The sneakers also come in adorable denim-inspired packaging with detachable “J” charms for added glam. Find out more about the Air Jordan 1 Low “Worn Blue”.
Air Jordan 4 “Worn Blue”
Another underrated denim style set to release in 2025 is the Air Jordan 4 “Worn Blue”. This sneaker has a distressed two-tone denim upper with sail touches and gold lace dubraes. However, with many comparing this design to the Levi’s collaboration from 2018, did it really stand a chance? Find out more about the Air Jordan 4 “Worn Blue”.
Air Jordan 1 High “Self Expression”
This year has seen an endless stream of must-have retro colourways released in celebration of the 40th milestone of the Air Jordan 1 model. Because of all the attention being paid to these timeless designs, newer colourways like the Air Jordan 1 Retro High OG “Self Expression” have garnered far less attention. Yet we can think of at least three reasons (or layers) to appreciate the unique colourway: black uppers that wear away to reveal a multicoloured look underneath, which eventually will fade to white. Find out more about the Air Jordan 1 High “Self Expression”.
INFINITE ARCHIVES x Air Jordan 17 Low
The Air Jordan 17 Low has been quiet on the retro scene in recent years, but with the comeback of the “Lightning” and “UNC” colourways in 2024, the model is regaining popularity. This brings us to INFINITE ARCHIVES’ new take on the classic model for 2025. The design pays homage to Mike Bibby’s legendary AJ17 PE, featuring a tan base with purple and chrome hits on the midsole and black detailing on the inner bootie. Find out more about the INFINITE ARCHIVES x Air Jordan 17 Low.
Jordan Luka .77 “Quai 54”
Several of Jordan Brand’s lifestyle and performance models are wearing black and yellow for this year’s Quai 54 event in Paris, with models like the Air Jordan 1 Low hogging all the attention. Yet included in the mix is Luka Dončić’s outdoor-focused performance model boasting black uppers, yellow soles, and Quai 54 logos. It’s mean, it’s bold, it’s beautiful.
