The Air Jordan 5, one of the most iconic sneakers in the world, has been a staple in the sneaker world since its launch in 1990. The shoe, designed by Tinker Hatfield, embodied the aggressive style of Michael Jordan on the court. This guide will delve into the best colorways of the Air Jordan 5, exploring their design, inspiration, and how they were initially released. It will also highlight Michael Jordan's iconic moments in the Air Jordan 5 and how the shoe made its push into pop culture.
Design Inspiration and Debut
The Air Jordan 5 was designed by Tinker Hatfield, who took inspiration from the P-51 Mustang fighter jet, a plane used by Allied forces during World War II. The aggressive silhouette of the Air Jordan 5 takes cues from the Mustang, embodying Jordan’s dominant on-court style and movements that mimicked the plane. The midsole of the Air Jordan 5 features signature shark-tooth detailing, paying homage to “The Shark,” a version of the P-51 decorated with cartoonish shark teeth. The shoe was the first basketball silhouette to feature a 3M tongue, a clear outsole, and a molded ankle collar, making it a revolutionary shoe for its time and leading a new shift in 90s footwear that is still relevant today.
Worn by Michael Jordan throughout the 1990 season and on center stage at the All-Star game, the Air Jordan 5 was released to the public in February 1990. Retailing for $125 USD, the Air Jordan 5 debuted in four colorways. Spike Lee's Mars Blackmon character teamed up with Jordan again to deliver more advertisements for the release, with the "It's Gotta Be The Shoes" TV spot becoming one of the most iconic footwear advertisements in history. However, the Air Jordan 5 would surprisingly see much of its popularity from a new show titled The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air.
THE BEST AIR JORDAN 5 COLORWAYS
The Air Jordan 5 has witnessed a variety of colorways over the decades, each carrying its unique appeal and cultural impact. Among these, certain colorways have stood out and left a lasting impression on the sneaker industry.
THE ORIGINAL FOUR
Air Jordan 5 'Black Metallic'
Air Jordan 5 'Fire Red'
Air Jordan 5 'Grape'
Air Jordan 5 'Silver Fire Red'
The Best Collaborations
Supreme x Air Jordan 5
Off-White x Air Jordan 5
DJ Khaled x Air Jordan 5
A Ma Maniere x Air Jordan 5
Fresh Prince of Bel-Air and the Air Jordan 5
The Air Jordan 5 found a significant place in the world of pop culture thanks to its association with the hit TV show "The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air." The show, which ran for six seasons from 1990 to 1996, brought the Air Jordan 5 into the mainstream light in a big way. The show's star, Will Smith, wore a pair throughout the show's opening title sequence, one of the most famous sequences in television history.
Will Smith's character on the show had one of the most extensive sneaker collections seen before sneaker collecting was considered a hobby, starting with the Air Jordan 5. Smith was an avid lover of Jordan’s, often flaunting different silhouettes and colors while uniquely styling them. The most notable example was Smith’s styling of the Air Jordan 5 — wearing them nonchalantly without laces. Smith’s laceless Jordan 5 style became a trend he started and was picked up by fans around the world.
The "Fresh Prince" of Bel-Air truly was an all-time sneaker show. The show's influence on the representation of the sneaker industry in the mainstream was immense. It was harder to come by during the show’s original television run, and it left an indelible impression. The Air Jordan 5's association with the "Fresh Prince of Bel-Air" solidified its status as a cultural icon. The shoe's iconic design, combined with Smith's charismatic character, symbolized the show's popularity and influence on fashion trends. Today, the Air Jordan 5 remains a coveted silhouette, with its association with the "Fresh Prince of Bel-Air" adding to its history.
WHERE TO BUY THE AIR JORDAN 5
Whether you are an avid sneaker collector or just looking for your first pair, finding authentic Air Jordan 5s can be difficult. When it comes to a trusted destination, KICKS CREW stands out, exclusively collaborating with verified retailers for your peace of mind. Below are some of our best sellers.
BEST SELLERS
Air Jordan 5 'UNC'
Air Jordan 5 'Burgundy'
Air Jordan 5 'Green Bean'
Air Jordan 5 'Aqua'
The Air Jordan 5 has released numerous colorways over the decades, each offering a unique design and style. Whether you're a fan of the classic design or prefer a modern twist, there's a colorway of the Air Jordan 5 that suits every taste. These colorways showcase the versatility of the Air Jordan 5 and celebrate its rich history and iconic status in the footwear industry.
