Air Jordan 16 'Ginger' Brings Back a Classic From MJ’s Wizards Era

Michael Jordan’s return to basketball in 2001 introduced a completely different chapter of his career. He was no longer wearing Chicago red and black, and the Air Jordan 16 'Ginger' became one of the sneakers associated with his unexpected run with the Washington Wizards. Now, the original colorway is preparing to return in Summer 2027, bringing back a model from an era of the Air Jordan line that receives far fewer retros than Jordan’s championship-period sneakers.

Designed by Wilson Smith III, the Air Jordan 16 arrived in 2001 as Jordan Brand moved forward without longtime Air Jordan designer Tinker Hatfield. Its appearance reflected that transition, combining performance basketball elements with a cleaner, more formal aesthetic intended to work beyond the court.

Its defining feature was a removable magnetic shroud covering the laces. Keeping it attached created a streamlined appearance, while removing it exposed the sneaker’s more technical basketball construction underneath. Full-length Zoom Air provided cushioning underfoot.

The “Ginger” became particularly memorable after Jordan wore the colorway during his Wizards tenure. Unlike the Bulls-inspired palettes that dominate his sneaker history, its warm earth tones captured the noticeably different aesthetic surrounding the final stage of his NBA career.

For 2027, Jordan Brand is expected to bring back the original Light Ginger, Dark Charcoal, and White combination. Light Ginger dominates the exterior, while Dark Charcoal contrasts the inner bootie, branding, and outsole detailing. White adds further separation throughout the design.

Most importantly, the removable shroud is expected to return, preserving the feature that gave the Air Jordan 16 one of the most distinctive constructions in the signature line. The Air Jordan 16 'Ginger' is expected to release June 19, 2027, and will retail for $245 USD.