Few sneakers have the cultural cachet and legacy of the Air Jordan 5. Designed by the legendary Tinker Hatfield and worn by Michael Jordan during the 1989-90 season, this shoe changed the game with its reflective tongue, shark-tooth midsole, and icy outsole. Over the years, it has been reimagined in countless colorways and collaborations, solidifying its place in sneaker history. After much debate, the Sole Classics staff has compiled our definitive ranking of the top 10 Air Jordan 5s of all time. Let’s dive in!
10. Air Jordan 5 "Yellow Tokyo 23"
Bright, bold, and unmistakably rare, the "Yellow Tokyo 23" made waves when it dropped in 2011. Featuring a vibrant yellow suede upper with black and grey accents, this Japan-exclusive release is a grail for many collectors. The Tokyo T23 branding on the heel makes it even more special, serving as a nod to Jordan Brand’s global influence.
9. Air Jordan 5 "Green Bean"
The "Green Bean" 5s were ahead of their time when they first released in 2006, featuring a fully reflective silver upper that lit up in the right conditions. The neon green accents gave them a futuristic feel, and their 2022 retro brought back nostalgia for sneakerheads who missed out the first time around.
8. Air Jordan 5 x Supreme "Desert Camo"
When Supreme linked up with Jordan Brand in 2015, they delivered three fire colorways, but the "Desert Camo" stood out the most. The military-inspired print, Supreme branding in the netting, and bold "94" embroidery (a nod to Supreme’s founding year) made this a streetwear must-have. It was proof that the worlds of skate and hoops culture were more intertwined than ever.
7. Air Jordan 5 "Raging Bull"
A sneaker that truly lives up to its name, the "Raging Bull" 5s came as part of the 2009 DMP pack and quickly became one of the most sought-after colorways. The premium red suede upper screams Chicago Bulls energy, and the black midsole with icy blue outsoles rounds out one of the most aggressive and stylish Jordan 5s ever released.
6. Air Jordan 5 "Wolf Grey"
For those who prefer a more subdued take on the AJ5, the "Wolf Grey" edition was a breath of fresh air. Dropping in 2011, its soft grey suede upper and white accents gave it a clean, everyday look, proving that Jordan 5s didn’t have to be flashy to be fresh.
5. Air Jordan 5 x Off-White "Sail"
The late, great Virgil Abloh worked his magic on this pair, delivering a deconstructed, vintage-inspired take on the Jordan 5. Released in 2020, the "Sail" colorway featured translucent panels, pre-yellowed soles, and signature Off-White details like the zip tie and Helvetica text. It was an instant classic, blending high fashion with hoop heritage.
4. Air Jordan 5 x A Ma Maniére "Dusk"
A Ma Maniére has a knack for elevating classic silhouettes, and their "Dusk" Jordan 5 is no exception. Released in 2023, this pair featured a premium black suede upper with subtle purple accents, embodying the brand’s luxurious aesthetic while still maintaining the raw energy of the AJ5.
3. Air Jordan 5 "Grape"
Few sneakers are as tied to pop culture as the "Grape" 5s. Worn famously by Will Smith in The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, this colorway featured a white leather upper with vibrant purple and teal accents. It’s a sneaker that screams ‘90s nostalgia and remains one of the most beloved non-Bulls Jordan colorways of all time.
2. Air Jordan 5 "Black Tongue"
The "Black Tongue" 5s, also known as the "Fire Red," were one of the original colorways from 1990 and became synonymous with Michael Jordan’s explosive playing style. Featuring a white leather upper, fire red midsole, and the signature black tongue, this pair has seen multiple retros, proving its staying power in the sneaker world.
1. Air Jordan 5 "Metallic"
Taking the top spot is the iconic "Metallic" 5s, an OG colorway that perfectly captured the essence of MJ’s game. With its sleek black nubuck upper, silver tongue, and icy blue outsole, this pair is the definition of timeless. Worn by Jordan during one of his most dominant seasons, it’s no surprise that the Sole Classics team crowned this the best Air Jordan 5 of all time.
Final Thoughts
The Air Jordan 5 has stood the test of time, from its hardwood roots with Michael Jordan to its streetwear dominance with Supreme, Off-White, and A Ma Maniére. Whether you’re drawn to the nostalgia of the "Grape" or the high-fashion deconstruction of Virgil Abloh’s "Sail," one thing is clear—this silhouette is legendary.
What’s your favorite Air Jordan 5? Let us know in the comments or stop by Sole Classics to talk kicks with us in person!
