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. And many of them are still in stores in 2026.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Drake x Nike NOCTA Air Force 1 Low “Pink Foam”
Drake and Nike introduced more colourways to their “Love You Forever” NOCTA x Air Force 1 Low collection this year, but the “Pink Foam” colourway is one of the best. Sure, it has the exact same details as all the others, but the Premium “Pink Foam” leather just looks extra lush.
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.
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?
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.
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 is said to pay homage to Mike Bibby’s legendary AJ17 PE as well as other beloved AJ17 colourways. It offers a neutral base with hits of colour on the outsole and the sticker covering the signature chrome heel cap.
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.
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