As you probably know, the 1990 basketball sneaker was originally designed after World War II fighter planes to look like a shark – which explains why there are shark-tooth shapes on the midsole of the shoe. This is even present on the low versions of the sneaker. Let’s jump in and take a look at the best releases of the infamous Air Jordan 5 Low.
CLOT x Air Jordan 5 Retro Low ‘White Silk 20th Anniversary’
Limited to just 250 pairs, this CLOT collaboration, an exclusive Friends & Family “White Silk” drop, might look like something you’d wear around Christmas time. However, this 2023 sneaker designed by Edison Chen is actually a celebration of Chinese culture. It has an elegant white silk finish, and features embroidered Chinese characters and CLOT branding on the heel. Today, these sneakers are extremely rare (they were originally gifted to random JUICESTORE shoppers) and resell for a whopping $5000.
Air Jordan Fusion 5 Low ‘Black’
As with the Air Jordan 2 Low releases, Jordan Brand seems to be willing to take more risks with the designs of the AJ5 Low sneakers. That’s especially true with releases like the AJ Fusion 5 Low ‘Black’ (dropped on May 31st 2008). This isn’t a GS release, although it looks like it could be. The black upper is accented by subtle grey detailing and “The Shoes?” text covering most of the sneaker. It’s definitely one of the more unique Jordans around.
Air Jordan 5 Retro Low ‘Neymar’
In 2016, basketball legend Michael Jordan and Brazilian soccer star Neymar got together for a unique collab: the AJ5 Retro Low ‘Neymar’, a flashy black, speckled sneaker with a reflective silver upper and Infrared accents. Both MJ and Neymar’s numbers (10 and 23) are stitched on the ankle. They resell for around $300 to $600 on sites like GOAT and StockX.
Air Jordan 5 Retro Low ‘Chinese New Year 2016’
Another limited edition release, this is another amazing drop from 2016 celebrating the festivities of the Chinese New Year. Just one look at this AJ5 Low and you’ll either love it or hate it. Personally, I’m a fan. The Bright Crimson colors over the black are really cool. Plus, that graphic on the heel tab and tongue make it stand out from every other Jordan around.
Air Jordan 5 Low “Dongdan”
By now you would have noticed that the Air Jordan 5 Low releases often coincide with Chinese culture. This release is no different. The Air Jordan 5 Low “Dongdan” celebrates the annual Chinese streetball tournament held in Beijing, known as Dongdan. The contrasting white stitching, pink shark-teeth and translucent netting on the quarter panel are simply beautiful. This is definitely one of the cleanest AJ5 Lows around.
CLOT x Air Jordan 5 Low “Jade”
Released in May 2022, the CLOT Jade is another beautiful sneaker from Edison Chen. He clearly has a lot of love for the AJ5 as he keeps putting in the effort to shape them into unique sneakers. This one features a black satin-like upper, red laces and light grey heel embroideries. But it’s the semi-translucent outsole that’s the standout.
Air Jordan 5 Retro Low “Girls That Hoop”
Probably the most playful AJ5 Low release, the vibrant Girls That Hoop (2022) release is mostly made up of warm, washed-out Arctic Orange Durabuck (a type of pink) tones. Meant to celebrate women’s basketball communities around the world, these could probably be worn by guys, too. While they might be pink, don’t be surprised to see them worn on courts by men.
Air Jordan 5 Low “Class Of 2021”
Michael Jordan might be synonymous with basketball greatness, but his legacy off the court is just as impressive. MJ credits his success to something often overlooked: his teachers. It’s this deep appreciation that inspired him to create the WINGS Scholarship Program. In 2018, the WINGS program took center stage with the release of a special-edition Air Jordan 5. Fast forward to May 14, 2021, Jordan Brand honored graduates everywhere with the Air Jordan 5 Low “Class of 2021.” This release wasn’t just a sneaker drop; it was a celebration of achievement and the hard work it takes to cross the finish line.
Air Jordan 5 Low “Doernbecher”
The Air Jordan 5 Low Doernbecher celebrated its 17th Freestyle collection, featuring designs by OHSU Doernbecher Children’s Hospital patients. Honoring Michael Wilson, it showcases his motto, “Take Flight,” with playful details like a shark graphic and eyes behind the netting. This vibrant sneaker tells a story of resilience and creativity while supporting a program that’s raised millions for children’s healthcare.
Air Jordan 5 Retro Low “Chinese New Year 2021”
This low-top sneaker features a canvas upper that wears away to reveal a hidden design underneath, adding a playful twist. Bold chile-red accents pop against the sail-white base, while the word “ACTION” peeks through the translucent netting. Crafted with a mix of soft leather and suede, this updated take on Michael Jordan’s fifth signature silhouette celebrates tradition with a modern edge. To learn more: Sneaker Fortress
