Air Jordan 5

Among early Air Jordan Retro models, the Air Jordan 5 is one of the most unforgettable pairs. This awesome basketball shoe boasts the recognisable shark teeth design and thick, padded tongue. No wonder Jordan Brand continues to launch new styles apart from the OG colourways!

Air Jordan models take design inspiration from just about everything. But usually, Tinker Hatfield creates designs based on sports cars and other luxuries.

The Air Jordan 5, on the other hand, flexed 3M reflective tongues and shark teeth on the forefoot midsole. Tinker actually took inspiration from World War 2 fighter jets to create the Air Jordan 5.

What made these early retros unique is that all models have different designs. Sneakerheads can easily recognise these pairs from the Air Jordan 1 up to the Air Jordan 14, all of which are Tinker Hatfield creations.

The Jordan 5 features a leather base with plastic netting on the sides for ventilation. Jumpman logos adorn the tongue, which also features a reflective coating.

Standard PU foam comprises the midsole, but the spiky shark teeth design on the forefoot steals the show. A visible Nike Air unit can be seen on the heel – the same setup since the 3rd Air Jordan model came out.

Another signature feature of the Air Jordan 5 is the translucent outsole. Herringbone traction patterns make up the decoupled soles for that icy fresh finish.

Most colourways also have the “23” label near the heel as a nod to MJ’s iconic jersey number.

OG colourways such as the Fire Red and Metallic Silver are the most popular pairs, but other brand collabs also gain a lot of value in the secondary market.

Looking to cop a new pair? Check out some of the most recent Air Jordan 5 Retro releases below to make your pick!