The Air Jordan 4 remains the most popular silhouette in Michael Jordan’s signature line. As the first globally released model, it’s the shoe that introduced much of the world to MJ’s kicks.
It’s more than just timing — the AJ4s are truly fly and versatile. But with all the recent hype around Jordan 5s like the 2025 “Black Metallic,” and the upcoming “Wolf Grey” and “Black University Blue,” is the AJ5 starting to steal the Air Jordan 4’s spotlight?
Hypebeast H/t Rabakali
Before we crown the AJ5, let’s first understand why Tinker Hatfield’s Air Jordan 4 has ruled for nearly four decades.
The Model That Set the Standard
When the Air Jordan 4 dropped in 1989, it marked a turning point for Jordan Brand as the first globally distributed model in the signature line. The silhouette quickly expanded beyond the hardwood, appearing in commercials, magazines, and on the feet of everyone from everyday fans to Chicago Bulls head coach Phil Jackson.
As the years progressed, the AJ4 didn’t fizzle out — it evolved. The silhouette became a measuring stick for other sneakers. Its wearability, distinctive design, and interior cushioning made it both fashionable and functional.
The AJ4 cemented itself in both streetwear and basketball culture while serving as a platform for innovation. From SB crossovers to collaborations with Travis Scott and Nigel Sylvester, along with consistent OG retros, the model continues to generate strong sell-through and resale performance.
I don’t believe the AJ4 has fallen off, but recent market trends suggest possible oversaturation — and that’s where the Air Jordan 5 enters the conversation.
Momentum, Not Replacement
While the Air Jordan 4 gave MJ’s sneakers global recognition, the Air Jordan 5’s debut in 1990 ushered in a bolder, more expressive era of sneakers and streetwear. The AJ4 was smooth and refined; the AJ5 was bigger, reflective, and unapologetically in your face.
The 2025 “Black Metallic” AJ5 brought a return to overnight campouts, long lines, and resale prices higher than a giraffe’s eyebrows.
sneakerbardetroit h/t rabakali
That hype wasn’t powered by a collaboration — it was driven by pure demand for the OG silhouette.
That’s why the upcoming “Wolf Grey” and “Black University Blue” releases are positioned to make serious noise. No celebrity co-sign. No brand collaboration. Just strong colorways, quality materials, and a classic silhouette.
The Air Jordan 5 is peaking at the exact moment the culture is ready for something different. It’s not chasing the AJ4’s spot — it’s building its own momentum.
Upcoming Air Jordan 5 Releases: Dates, Prices and Where to Buy
Air Jordan 5 “Black University Blue”
- Colorway: Black/University Blue/White
- Style Code: DD0587-008
- Release Date: June 20, 2026
- Price: $215
- Where to Buy: Nike SNKRS, Foot Locker, DTLR, JD Sports
Air Jordan 5 “Sunset”
- Colorway: White/Sunset/Fire Red/Black
- Style Code: IV5678-102
- Release Date: July 1, 2026
- Price: $215
- Where to Buy: Nike SNKRS, Foot Locker, Shoe Palace, Champs
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Air Jordan 5 “Wolf Grey”
- Colorway: Light Graphite/White/Wolf Grey
- Style Code: DD0587-002
- Release Date: February 28, 2026
- Price: $220
- Where to Buy: Nike SNKRS and select Jordan Brand retailers
Air Jordan 5 “White Metallic”
- Colorway: White/Metallic Silver/Black
- Style Code: HQ7978-103
- Release Date: April 25, 2026
- Price: $220
- Where to Buy: Nike SNKRS, DSG, Snipes, Foot Locker
Which Air Jordan 5 release has your attention in 2026 — and is this the year the AJ5 officially reclaims center stage?