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Air Jordan 5 Release Dates
Inspired by American World War II fighter planes, the Air Jordan 5 was originally released in 1990. With Tinker Hatfield at the helm of the design again, Nike had another instant classic on their hands with the AJ 5. With its first-ever use of 3M reflective material on the tongue, shark tooth design on the midsole, and plastic netting on the tongue and midfoot, Michael Jordan’s fifth signature sneaker was a statement maker.
Inspired by WWII-era fighter jets, the Tinker Hatfield-designed Air Jordan 5 is the first of MJ's signature sneakers to feature reflective 3M material, added to the tongue and translucent outsoles. The Air Jordan 5 was an aggressive upgrade to its predecessor, meant to match Jordan's playing style at the time. The uppers were updated with a new mesh cage, a distinct lace lock, and for the first time, the number 23 would be added to the heel, as another nod to the greatest player of all time.
The Air Jordan 5 is rarely available at retail sneaker stores. The SNKRS app and Nike's website are typically the primary sources for these sneakers as they don't get released often. Foot Locker and JD Sports may release pairs from time to time but due to high demand, the sneakers seem to be harder to purchase outside of Nike's own distribution channels. For rare pairs and collabs, stores like Sneaker Politics, Kith, and Social Status are among the possible stockists to find 5s as well.
The Air Jordan 5 originally released in three colorways: Black Metallic, Fire Red, and Grape. The Fire Red AJ5 was released with two different variations, one featuring a black nylon tongue, while the other featured a silver metallic one. Since these early pairs, we've seen several colorways paying homage to Jordan's career and impact. For example, Laney AJ5's tell the story of Michael Jordan's high school basketball team, while pairs like the Tokyo23 show just how far his game reached around the world. There was a boom around the mid-00s that saw Burgundy and Olive suede pairs, as well as low top white and blue leather pairs for women, plus collector's sets like the Raging Bulls, Count Down Pack, and Bin23.
The Air Jordan 5 runs true-to-size. Jordan 5s from before 2011 tend to run wider in the foot, especially pairs from the mid to late 2000s. We recommend possibly going down a half size for older pairs, but keep in mind, most pairs from that era are no longer wearable due to age and may need professional restoration that may alter the fit of the shoes.
The Air Jordan 5 does not restock often. If they ever do, the SNKRS app and Nike's website are primary sources for retail access. JD Sports, Foot Locker, and Dick's Sporting Goods may restock on rare occasions. For restock alerts, download the Sole Retriever app to stay updated on all of your favorite AJ 5s.
The Air Jordan 5 has been collaborated on a handful of times throughout its run. Off-White and Trophy Room both have two pairs, while A Ma Maniere and Supreme have collaborated on three. The soccer club PSG added their design language to a pair with a subdued black and white upper, while DJ Khaled has a rainbow of pastel colorways he's created with the brand. Though it may not be the subject of as many collaborations as its predecessors, the AJ5's timeless silhouette has proven it looks great in every iteration.
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