JORDAN BRAND BASKETBALL SHOES
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Latest Jordan Brand Shoe Reviews
Jordan Tatum 3
The Jordan Tatum 3 is a pretty decent performance model and is easily the best Tatum model to date. Traction is solid and relatively durable, cushioning is pretty great, and lockdown and fit are also on point. The materials on the shoe are decent and functional, but nothing spectacular, especially considering that this shoe retails for $130. It’s nice to see the improvements Jordan Brand implemented in this model and to see that the Tatum 3 signature line is finally on track. Read the full review. Price: $130
Jordan Heir
The Jordan Heir stands out as a low-profile, budget-friendly basketball shoe that prioritizes responsiveness and court feel. Its distinctive design, coupled with synthetic materials and a minimal cushioning setup, make it an appealing choice for players who want a straightforward, no-frills basketball shoe that performs on indoor courts. Read the full review. Price $110
Jordan 3 Black Cement
The Air Jordan 3 Black Cement will be an automatic pick-up for most sneakheads. The color blocking and shape alone will probably be enough to get you on board with these. On top of that, the materials are decent, this is the the closest the Air Jordan 3 has ever been to the original, and you really can tell that Jordan Brand put care and attention to detail into this release.
The price tag is steep, and Jordan should very much consider bringing it down, but at least you won’t be disappointed with your investment. As far as performance goes: yes they are playable, but they are clearly an old sneaker in this regard, so play in them at your own risk. Read the full review. Price: $220
Jordan 39
The Air Jordan 39 could have easily been the best basketball shoe of 2024-25 with a few simple and inexpensive changes. Instead, we have a shoe that does offer some standout features, but also has some glaring, foundational issues that may render the shoe unplayable for the general public. The cushioning system is elite, but the shoe’s torsional support and containment are lacking. If you are willing to spend a little extra money on top of the $200 the shoe already costs and purchase a pair of insoles that come equipped with torsional support, that may be able to solve some of the shoe’s weaknesses. Read the full review. Price: $200
Jordan Luka 3
Overall, the Jordan Luka 3 is a rather disappointing model. Performance should be fine, but feels lackluster if you take into account the $130 price tag. The lack of innovation is also a bummer, both in terms of tech and all-around aesthetics. Admittedly, traction and support are standout features, and cater well to shifter players on the court, and the cushioning setup will provide a comfortable, zippy, and smooth ride, which will work well for most playing styles. However, the materials used feel very cheap for the price, and the fit can be uncomfortably tight. Honestly, we expected more from the 3rd signature shoe of a player of the caliber of Luka Doncic. The Jordan Luka 3 sneaker is a solid choice all around, especially for players who prioritize traction and support, but we suggest holding off until you can get the Luka 3 on discount. Read the full review. Price $130.
Jordan 2/3 White Cement
The Jordan 23, or Jordan 2/3, boasts impressive aesthetics, particularly in this white cement colorway. This sneaker blends aesthetic features from both the Jordan 2 and the Jordan 3 including a beautiful Air Jordan 3 outsole with Nike branding to boot. The midsole is comfortable, featuring a combination of soft and squishy polyurethane with encapsulated Air and visible Air sole units. The upper materials include premium leather and lizard-embossed leather on the back panel, and they are notably high-quality for a non-retro shoe. Sizing can be tricky, as the shoe tends to run narrow, causing discomfort for wider feet, particularly at the toe area. Price $160.
Air Jordan 1 High OG First in Flight
The Air Jordan 1 Retro High OG “First in Flight” features some of the best materials we have seen in a Jordan 1 all year including genuine nubuck and leather. The design is well-executed and pays tribute to both the Wright brothers and Michael Jordan’s alma mater. This Air Jordan 1 features all the OG performance features like the polyurethane wedge and encapsulated air sole unit in the heel, and the all-time best traction setup. This release also boasts detailed packaging, unique insoles, and special paper, enhancing its appeal. However, the shoe has some weaknesses, such as using a less comfortable Dreamcell insole instead of a polyurethane one, and potential sizing limitations as it primarily targets the women’s market. Price $180.
Jordan 38 Low
The Jordan 38 is awesome, and so is the Jordan 38 Low. There are some slight differences in material, and BE WARNED, the fit is longer than the normal 38, so make sure to try them on in-store, or go down half a size for a nice snug 1 to 1 fit. Price: $200. Read the full review.
Air Jordan 12 Low Golf
The Air Jordan 12 Low Golf was made with hoop enthusiasts in mind. That being said, there’s a reason why Signature Jordan shoes aren’t a common sight. It logical to be worried that the price tag won’t match the performance, and for some people, this shoe still might not. The Air Jordan 12 Low Golf is a basketball shoe at its core and has a different feel than traditional golf shoes. But if you’re anything like our WearTesters team and grew up in basketball shoes, you’ll love these. Read the full review. Retail price: $220
Air Jordan 13 Dune Red
The Air Jordan 13 Dune Red, rebranded from the anticipated Ben 13s, presents a mixed bag of features. The shoe features the OG tech specs including its wide-based with herringbone traction pods that mimic a panther’s paw, making it a stable and reliable choice to hoop in. It also features a carbon fiber shank plate for torsion support, a comfortable Phylon midsole, and both heel and forefoot Zoom Air units for cushioning. The inclusion of reflective 3M material adds a cool aesthetic touch. However, the shoe’s colorway, described as a fleshy tone, may not appeal to everyone, and the mix of synthetic and genuine leather could be a letdown for those expecting premium materials throughout. Additionally, the synthetic leather tongue might cause some discomfort and noise compared to the original microfiber tongues of past releases. Retail price: $200
Air Jordan 11 Low Legend Pink
The Air Jordan 11 Low Legend Pink is a women’s release featuring a distinct soft pink colorway with vibrant patent leather accents. Strengths include high-quality materials such as genuine patent leather and a real polyurethane insole, enhancing comfort and durability. The shoe maintains the iconic design with a translucent outsole and white herringbone traction pods, along with a full-length carbon fiber shank plate and Phylon midsole for stability and support. One thing to keep in mind is the sizing, as it may run slightly large. Retail price: $190
Air Jordan 1 High OG Denim
The Air Jordan 1 High OG Denim is kind of a weird Air Jordan 1, but it is much better than we expected. It features a stylish design built with all-denim which turned out to be much more versatile aesthetically than you might think. One of this model’s strengths is that it allows for a lot of creative customization through dyeing and distressing. This Air Jordan 1 also features an eco-friendly recycled rubber outsole, and an extra set of laces. However, the lack of perforations on the toe compromises breathability, and the fake Dream Cell insole may not provide the best comfort, but it is completely replaceable so it is not a huge issue. Additionally, the vegan-friendly nature might appeal to some but may not be universally favored. Overall, it’s a distinctive and potentially fun shoe, albeit with some practical limitations. Retail price: $180
Air Jordan 4 Oxidized Green
The Air Jordan 4 in the oxidized green is a pretty sleek colorway of the Jordan 4 and actually features some pretty decent materials. The leather and the detailed paint treatment are reminiscent of old-school car designs. The shoe features a polyurethane midsole with an encapsulated and visible air sole unit for cushioning. It’s not the most comfortable setup but keep this shoe original released in 1989. The inclusion of a Dreamcell insole improves comfort slightly, however. The design retains classic features like herringbone traction and netting for ventilation, which was innovative for its time. Keep in mind, over time, that netting will yellow. Additionally, the shoe features leather accents instead of plastic, enhancing its durability and aesthetic. Overall, the shoe combines historical elements with modern design touches, making it visually appealing and durable, though it might not be the most comfortable option for all-day wear. Retail price: $210
Air Jordan 6 White and Black
The Air Jordan 6 White and Black, also known as the “Oreo” or “Reverse Oreo,” features a sleek and timeless colorway in white and black, making a great shoe and colorway for any outfit. The shoe boasts a durable construction with high-quality leather, a polyurethane midsole, and both encapsulated and visible Air units, offering a retro look with modern enhancements for stability and support. The Jordan 6 in general doesn’t have the best traction ever and they take time to break in. Also, the toe shape and rubber placement might also appear boxy and less refined compared to previous models. Despite these issues, the shoe maintains its classic appeal and remains a solid choice for fans of the Air Jordan series. Retail price: $200
Air Jordan 17 Low Lightning
The Air Jordan 17 Low Lightning is finally back! This shoe features a premium leather upper and a sleek 2000ish design. The shoe’s technical sophistication includes elements like a double-lasted forefoot, an encapsulated air sole unit, and a top-loaded Zoom Air unit. The outsole is designed with MJ’s love of golf in mind, offering good traction with herringbone patterns in potted sections. However, the shoe’s intricate construction also makes it cumbersome and difficult to break in. The new version deviates from the original in shape and material quality, with a slightly boxier and less performance-oriented fit. The price point of $300 is steep and partly due to its complex manufacturing process. Overall, while the Air Jordan 17 Low Lightning offers a nostalgic and technically rich design, but its high cost and break-in time might be deterrents for some. Retail price: $300
Air Jordan 12 Taxi Flip
The Air Jordan 12 “Taxi Flip” features all the original tech specs of the Jordan 12 including the great traction setup that features full herringbone, and the responsive cushioning provided by the full-length Zoom Air unit, making it a great on-court performance (once broken in), even by today’s standards. The shoe also features a stylish design with a full leather upper, the leather quality is not as premium as the original releases, and the shoe can feel clunky and stiff initially, but it is all around one of the best OG Jordans. The Air Jordan 12 “Taxi Flip” offers solid performance features and a unique look, but it falls short in some design and material aspects. Retail price: $200
Jordan Tatum 2
Disappointing is the best way of describing the Tatum 2. All the changes Jordan made to this shoe did very little to improve performance in any way. Jordan Brand now has two of the worst signature lines on the market: the Tatum and the Zion. The Jordan 38 is an amazing performance model, which makes these gaffes all the more surprising. Hopefully, they can get their act together for the Tatum 3. Read the full review. Retail price: $125
Air Jordan 1 High ’85 Metallic Burgundy
The Air Jordan 1 85 in the metallic burgundy colorway nails the retro design and attention to detail, closely resembling the original version from the ’80s. The inclusion of extra laces and a detailed card enhances the overall presentation. In terms of performance, the shoe boasts exceptional comfort, thanks to the polyurethane insoles and the innovative cushion setup with encapsulated air. Additionally, the traction system offers reliable grip on various surfaces. However, some weaknesses are notable, such as the slightly stiffer leather and the uncertainty regarding the durability of the metallic coating. The change in tongue material may also divide opinions among enthusiasts. Overall, the Air Jordan 1 85 in metallic burgundy excels in nostalgic design and comfort but may have minor drawbacks in material quality and longevity.
Price $180
Jordan Air Ship PE
The Jordan Airship PE, a reinterpretation of the 1984-1985 Nike Airship, offers premium materials and exceptional comfort, with a polyurethane wedge and encapsulated Air sole unit providing support underfoot. Its classic design, reminiscent of MJ’s rookie season, features high-quality leather and a durable rubber cupsole with excellent traction. The customizable lace options and clean Nike Air branding add to its appeal. However, while the shoe boasts impressive craftsmanship and comfort, its lack of significant innovation and the subjective preference for certain colorways may limit its appeal to some collectors. Price $140
Air Jordan 1 High Black White
The Air Jordan 1 High “Black and White” presents a customizable option for sneaker enthusiasts with its versatile design, offering a canvas for personalization while maintaining a sophisticated look through its premium matte black and white leather materials. Its classic color blocking harks back to iconic Air Jordan 1 releases, appealing to a broad audience. However, the shoe lacks significant innovation and unique branding, potentially making it less compelling for collectors seeking standout features. Additionally, sizing and fit preferences may vary among wearers, requiring trial and error to find the ideal size. Price $180
Air Jordan 13 Blue Grey
The Air Jordan 13 “Blue Gray” is a slick new colorway of the Jordan 13. The colorway doesn’t have a clear thematic tie-in but it features all the classic aesthetics and performance capabilities. From the unmistakable quilted overlay to the Pantherpaw-inspired outsole, The shoe’s construction and materials are more than decent except for the tongue material, which could potentially produce discomfort. Price $210
Air Jordan 3 Craft Ivory
The Air Jordan 3 Craft “Ivory” features a translucent peach-tinted outsole and a mix of ivory and cream leather with varied textures, giving it a unique aesthetic. Despite some quirks like off-center Jumpman logos and unconventional suede panels, we appreciate the elevated craftsmanship typical of Craft releases. While the fit can be inconsistent, overall, these sneakers are intriguing and visually appealing. A fresh take on the classic Air Jordan 3. Price $210
Jordan 4 Bread Reimagined
The Air Jordan 4 Reimagined is a remix on a classic Air Jordan 4 colorway, and the shoe looks great. Aside from that, we have all the usual performance features you will find in any Jordan 4, including muti-directional herringbone traction (the first Air Jordan to feature this type of traction), a phylon midsole, and a visible air unit in the heel. In terms of materials, the leather used on this pair is really good for Jordan standards. The shoe fits true to size, so go with whatever size you usually use with Jordans. Price $210
Jordan 6 Ochre
This is a 100% original colorway of the Jordan 6, though the color blocking is not. The Jordan 6 was originally released in 1996 and this release, as far as the build is concerned, is very similar to that original release. Materials on this model are above average for a Jrdan 6, and this style of color blocking just works in the Jordan 6. The shoe features all the original tech specs, and in general, this is a more than decent rendition of the Jordan 6. Price $200
Jordan 2 Python
The Jordan 2 was originally released in 1986 and was designed by Peter Moore and Bruce Kilgore. This colorway pays homage to a takedown version of the Jordan 2. This take-down version featured slightly different tech specs to the normal Jordan 2. So, basically, what we have here is the Air Python look with the Jordan 2 build and tech specs. The upper build and materials are very nice making this one of the best Jordan 2 retros we have seen. Price $175
Jordan Zion 3
Even though the Jordan Zion 3 does not feel like a Zion shoe, or even to be enough to keep up with his playing style. The Zion 3 is more than enough shoe for us mere mortals and it actually might have been an exciting performance model, especially if you are looking for an affordable Kobe substitute. Still, the fit and the traction make it hard to recommend.
With the Zion 3 you are getting…well…a Kobe with mediocre traction (at best), a very nice drop-in midsole cushioning system, encased in a light, sleek package all for $140. If you play exclusively on pristine surfaces, and you can get the traction to bite the court, then these might be worth a pick up, but if not, there are better options out there. Read the full review. Retail price: $140
Air Jordan one Take 5
The Jordan One Take 5 doesn’t look like a basketball shoe. This is a skate shoe in hoop clothing. The stiffness of the midsole and shank plate combined with the substantial padding within the shoe will make the One Take way too restrictive for most players to enjoy on court. Now, if you enjoy a very responsive ride on court with a high level of court feel and appreciate a lot of torsional support, you will like these as long as the fit works for you.
The Jordan One Take 5 is too much of a niche performance model for us to recommend it for most hoopers. Our best advice is to go into a store and try these on in person. It’s a shame because the materials and overall build of the shoe are very nice. Read the full review. Retail price: $180
Air Jordan 1 High OG Yellow Ochre
This colorway/ build of the Air Jordan 1 is supposed to be an OG version of the shoe, but there is nothing OG about it. Materials on this version of the Air Jordan 1 High OG are top-notch for Jordan. The main build combines different textures of authentic leather. Solid release. Retail price: $180
Air Jordan 1 High OG Celadon
Materials on this version of the Air Jordan 1 High OG are actually rather nice. The main build combines leather and short-haired nubuck. The only issue is the orange sections of the swoosh and the collar of the shoe that are made in an odd, stiff synthetic material. all-in-all a nice colorway. Retail price: $200
Air Jordan 14 Black and White
This is one of the best-performing OG Jordan hoop shoes. The shoe was actually designed taking inspiration from Michael Jordan’s Ferrari and it performs like one. It features a lightweight, low-ridding Phylon midsole, with Zoom Air units in the heel and forefoot. This is a completely new colorway and the upper is full suede and a nubuk tongue. Retail price: $200
Air Jordan 3 Midnight Navy
This is a nice, elegant version of the Jordan 3. This is a general release Jordan 3, but it features high-quality materials, unlike other GR materials. In particular, the elephant print on the heel and forefoot of the shoe is as good and as true to the original as we have ever seen. The build is also very OG, so if you are a fan of the ’87 version of the shoe, you will like this pair as well. The shoe features all the usual tech we find in a Jordan 3 and offers the usual Jordan 3 fit as well. Retail price: $180
Air Jordan 8 Winterized
The Jordan 8 has only been retro-ed a handful of times since they originally debuted during the 1992-93 season, and now, we have an OG re-release and a winterized chromed-out version. Weird. Performance-wise, the Jordan 8 isn’t a great shoe, but it is an enjoyable model to play with and a superb outdoor option. The one polarizing aspect of this shoe version is the contrast between the most exterior layer of materials and the the layer just before that. They aren’t exactly the same color, which was the case with the original. In terms of materials the features on this model are OK, and they aren’t exactly great winter shoes (they arent exactly water proof), but they are warm and cozy. As far as sizing, they fit true to size but you could go down half a size if you want a snug 1 to 1 fit. Retail price: $210
Air Jordan 11 Gratitude
These are the best Air Jordan 11 DMPs, period. This color scheme was originally released in 1995 (with the Jordan 11 Concord of course), and the first time we saw a DMP (Defining Moments Pack) version of the 11 was back in 2006. In that original DMP release, 2 shoes were featured: the Air Jordan 6 representing MJ’s first three-pete and the Air Jordan 11 for the second. Materials on this shoe are great as far as Jordan Brand goes, and this colorway does away with the mesh portions of the upper usually found on an OG AJ 11, and substitutes them for leather. As far as tech specs go, these feature your usual Air Jordan 11 setup (full-length encapsulated air, carbon fiber shank plate, etc.). The Air Jordan 11 Gratitude fits true to size so go with whatever size you usually use with Jordan. Price $225
Air Jordan 11 Neapolitan
The Air Jordan 11 Neapolitan is a really nice women’s exclusive release. The shoe features all the same (great) tech specs you would usually find in an Air Jordan 11, and it is built with elevated, materials as well. The biggest change you will find in regards to other Air Jordan 11s, is that they have substituted the cordura mesh usually featured on the upper for quality leather. The Air Jordan 11 Neapolitan fits true to size so go with whatever size you usually use with Jordan. Price $225
Air Jordan 3 Off Noir
The Air Jordan 3 Off Noir is another great women’s exclusive release from Jordan Brand. this colorway is sleek and classy and it is built with some of the best materials we have seen on a Jordan shoe this year. the one aspect they did skimp out on were the insoles which are trash, but everything else is great. They feature really nice and soft Nubuck. So nice in fact, we would recommend not wearing these out in rainy weather. In terms of tech specs, these feature the same exact setup you will find in any Jordan 3, and they fit true to size. Price $200
Air Jordan 4 Craft Olive
Jordan Brand has been killing it of late with its retro releases, and the Air Jordan 4 Craft Olive is another great drop. The main reason why these are so great is the materials. The upper is built with soft hairy suede and premium Nubuck. The one small miss-step in terms of the build of this model is the plastic heel tab which, in our opinion, should have been up in the same cracked black leather used on the side straps for added comfort and all-around design. They fit true to size, so go with your usual Jordan size. Keep in mind that they are rather narrow if you have wide feet. Price $210.
Air Jordan 3 Fear 2023
This is one of the most unexpected colorways of the Jordan 3 to be re-released, but we are glad Jordan brand did. The materials on these, are similar to the ones used on the previous release, which means that they are very nice. On top of that, the build and shape of the shoe is superb. Materials on this shoe are as good as it gets for Jordan, and, this is one of the most comfortable Jordan 3’s we have seen in a while. This model fits true to size, so go with your usual size with Jordan. Retail price: $200
A Ma Maniére x Air Jordan 5 Dawn
Another A Ma Maniére collab! In this case, a woman’s exclusive release. This version of the Air Jordan 5 features a nice mix of material along the upper. What we have is a combo of leather and nubuck, and a slimmed-down build. One important non-OG feature is the A Ma Maniére branding integrated into the iconic plastic netting on the lateral portions of the shoe. In terms of tech they feature the same exact specs as you would find in any other Air Jordan 5. Be warned, the A Ma Maniére x Air Jordan 5 Dawn comes in women’s sizing, so keep that in mind if you are interested in picking up a pair. Price $225.
Air Jordan 6 Gore-Tex
The Air Jordan 6 Gore-Tex is a woman release, and, as the name would indicate, are built to withstand any weather. The colorway and the materials are on point and the shoes is completely waterproof. Tech-wise you have all the usual bells and whistles of any aIr Jordan 6. The shoe fits true to size, but keep in mind that Jordan 6s aren’t heavily padded on the inside so there will be extra room. You may want to go down half a size if you have a narrow foot. Retail price: $250
Air Jordan 5 Midnight Navy
The Air Jordan 5 Midnight Navy is very similar to the last “Craft” version of the Jordan 5, which means that some people will like these, and others not so much. The main reason for this is the materials. In this case, we have a combo of waxed suade and canvas, so if you were hoping for a full leather build, this isn’t the colorway for you. On top of that the actual build is quite different to the OG Jordan 5. They fit true to size if you are interested in a pair. Retail price: $210
A Ma Maniére x Jordan Air Ship PE SP
The A Ma Maniére x Jordan Air Ship PE SP is the best Air Ship we have seen this year, and that is saying something. This is a simple, clean colorway, that, as the name indicates, is a colab with A Ma Maniére. This was the first shoe MJ actually wore in the NBA. What apparently happened with this model is that Nike didn’t have time to create the actual Air Jordan 1 before the start of the season, so they put together a PE version of the Air Ship for him to use. All the colorways of the Air Ship that have dropped are excellent, and this one is no different. Retail price: $140
Air Jordan 13 Wheat 2023
The Air Jordan 13 Wheat is back for the first time since 2004, and it is back in spectacular fashion. This shoe is equipped with all the classic tech you usually get in a Jordan 13 which is excellent and makes this Jordan one of the best on-court performance models on the OG lineup. Plus the materials in this version are some of the best we have seen on a Jordan 13. The shoe fits true to size, and if you like a more snug fit, you should be ok going with half a size less. Retail price: $200
Air Jordan 1 High OG Royal Reimagined
The Air Jordan 1 High OG Royal Reimagined a very sleek release from Jordan. You get all the usual tech specs you will find in every Jordan 1 and the materials on this version a pretty nice. The upper is built with a combination of suede (the blue portions) and Nubuck (the black portions). This is one of the most premium-feeling Jordans we have seen in a while. On top of that the build is very similar to the the original Jordan 1 build. They fit true to size so go with your usual size with Jodan. Retail price: $180
Air Jordan 1 Low ’85
This is the closest an Air Jordan 1 Low has ever been to the original. The Air Jordan 1 Low ’85 is one of two OG colorways. You get all the usual tech specs you will find in every Jordan 1 with minimal changes in the traction pattern, including an OG board-last. In terms of the materials used, on this version, they are pretty nice and soft, and include a canvas (not vinyl) togue. In terms of sizing go true to size and you should be fine. Retail price: $180
Air Jordan 12 Cherry
This is an OG colorway of one of the best Jordan sneakers of all time, and it has retroed only once before in 2009. This is special. On top of that, this version is way better than the re-release in 2009 and it is the closest it has ever been to the original Jordan 12. The shoe packs all the same performance goodies as a traditional Jordan 12 including full-length Zoom Air, a carbon fiber shank plate, and herringbone traction. The shoe is also built with some nice materials including almost premium leather. They fit true to size so go with your usual size. Price: $210
Air Jordan 1 High OG Satin Bred
The Air Jordan 1 High OG Satin Bred is another woman’s exclusive model from Jordan Brand and one of the better, and more unique looking ones at that. The shoe is wrapped in a satin and polyester blend. Underneath this outer shell, we have a traditional Air Jordan 1 build, so have no fear regarding containment and overall structure. A couple of “upgraded” details on this model are the metal grommets on the eyelets, the metal tips on the laces, the embroidered Jordan wings logo on the side and the fact that it comes with a small Jordan tote bag. One thing to keep in mind is that these are a woman’s release so be extra careful when it comes to sizing. Women’s sizing is 1.5 sizes less than men’s (ie: 12 men’s = 13.5 women’s). Retail price: $180
Air Jordan 1 Low OG University Red
The Air Jordan 1 Low OG University Red is a bit odd. The colorway itself is clean and sleek and, the materials used are very nice (considering this is Jordan Brand) but the build is, simply put, puzzling. Firstly, the laces have seen a downgrade in regards to other Jordan 1s. For one, there is only 1 set of laces (normally there are 2) and the pair that comes with the shoe are not great.
The upper construction is another issue. It looks like the toe area belongs to a non-OG Jordan 1 low, meaning: it is boxy and almost looks like it belongs to another shoe. Everything from the toe box back is good and much more “OG”. One other thing to take into account is the sizing. This model fits slightly long, so our suggestion is to go down half a size. Retail price: $180
Air Jordan 1 Mauve
The Air Jordan 1 Mauve might not be everyone’s cup of tea, but there is no denying it is a clean colorway. The pair we got in to review is quite nice. The shoe is built 100% in real leather, and a pretty soft and buttery one at that. the build is also on point and is as close to the original as a modern Jordan 1 can get. BUT, in the process of finding this pair, we had to go through several boxes to find a pair this good. Inconsistencies like this in Jordan Brand have become commonplace nowadays, which is unfortunate, so make sure to go in-store to pick yours up and make sure to get one of the good ones. Or just go ahead and roll the dice online. Retail price: $180
Air Jordan 6 Aqua
The Air Jordan 6 Aqua is a pretty great colorway of the AJ 6, but, as the Jordan 8 Aqua is the most iconic Aqua colorway, it feels slightly out of place. The construction and shape of this shoe is fantastic, and that has a lot to do with the material Jordan Brand chose to build the upper with. The upper on these Jordan 6s is 100% suede and some of the best suede you will find on Jordan products, which still isn’t premium overall. It is very reminiscent of the Jordan 5 Racer Blue. Tech-wise you have all the usual bells and whistles of any aIr Jordan 6. The shoe fits true to size, but keep in mind that Jordan 6s aren’t heavily padded on the inside so there will be extra room. If you have a narrow foot, you may want to go down half a size. Retail price: $200
Jordan Jumpman Pro
The Jordan Jumpman Pro has never had a decent retro release, and this version is no different. The original Jumpman Pro was excellent, but Jordan Brand has removed almost everything that made this Team Jordan model great. We still have the same traction pattern and carbon fiber shank plate, but the materials on the upper are flat-out bad, and the cushioning has been severely downgraded. Instead of the original Air-Sole unit in the heel and the articulated Zoom unit in the forefoot, this version only features the heel Air unit, and it is barely noticeable. the only reason to pick these up is if you love them aesthetically. Retail price: $145
Air Jordan 1 Praline
The Air Jordan 1 Praline is a new woman’s-only release from Jordan and in terms of materials and general build, this is an above-average drop for Jordan. Especially the brown or “praline” portions are very nice. They feature silky laces and a silky sock liner. If those laces are a bit much for you, the shoe does come with traditional white laces so, don’t fret. In terms of sizing they do come in women’s sizes, so keep that in mind if you are looking for your men’s size, in that case you will have to go half a size up. Retail price: $180
Air Jordan 1 Palomino
It’s disconcerting that this Jordan 1 is designated as a Palomino colorway because it really doesn’t have any “palomino” colors. What it does have is some really great materials for an Air Jordan 1. The black portions a very soft genuine leather. The brown portions are a very soft nubuck. Now, that doesn’t mean that these are super premium, but they are an elevated version of an Air Jordan 1. Retail price: $180
Air Jordan 8 Playoffs 2023
The Jordan 8 has only retroed a handful of times since they were originally debuted during the 1992-93 season. Of all the retroes we have seen of this shoe, the 2023 edition is the closest in terms of build and looks we have seen. Performance-wise, the Jordan 8 isn’t a great shoe, but it is a very fun model to play with and a superb outdoor option. The one polarizing aspect of this version of the shoe is the contrast between the most exterior layer of materials and the the layer just before that. They aren’t exactly the same color, which was the case with the original. As far as sizing, they fit true to size but you could go down half a size if you want a snug 1 to 1 fit. Retail price: $210
Air Jordan 2 Black Cement
This version of the Jordan 2 might be the best colorway we have ever seen of a Jordan 2. It may not look like it but this is a brand new colorway of the shoe. This is a clean, sleek colorway with some of the best materials we have seen on a retro Jordan this year. In terms of tech specs, we have all the usual tooling you would find in a Jordan 2, however, this is one of the most comfortable versions we have seen, just slightly less comfortable than the Chicago colorway. Simply one of the best Jordan retros we have seen in 2023. Retail price: $175
Air Jordan 4 Red Cement
The Air Jordan 4 Red Cement is a remix on a classic Air Jordan 4 colorway, and the shoe looks good but maybe not as good as the original. Aside from that, we have all the usual performance features you will find in any Jordan 4, including muti-directional herringbone traction (the first Air Jordan to feature this type of traction), a phylon midsole, and a visible air unit in the heel. In terms of materials, the leather used on this pair is good, but not great. The shoe fits true to size, so go with whatever size you usually use with Jordans. Retail price: $210
Air Jordan 5 Burgundy 2023
Here we have another excellent Jordan 5 drop. This colorway was originally a lifestyle or “LS” release from 2006. The “LS” Jordans from back then were conceived as updated versions of the OG Jordan models, made up in brand new “edgier” colorways, meant for casual use only. This version of the shoe also pays tribute to the original Jordan Flight Club. The Jordan Flight Club was a mail-away social club of sorts that was in existence from 1987 to 1991. The colorway uses colors from the branding of the Flight Club merch. In terms of tech specs, no surprise we have all the usual tech specs that we always have in a Jordan 5. The upper is where you will find the biggest changes in regard to a typical Jordan 5. The upper is built with Nubuck, and they look and feel great, much better in fact than the original. Retail price: $225
Air Jordan 13 Wolf Grey
The Air Jordan 13 Wolf Grey is a remix of a OG Retro Air Jordan 13 from back in 2005 so we have OG color blocking just using new colors, which we love here at Wertesters. This shoe is equipped with all the classic tech you usually get in a Jordan 13 which is excellent and makes this Jordan one of the best on-court performance models on the OG lineup. The shoe fits true to size, and if you like a more snug fit, you should be ok going with half a size less. Retail price: $200
Jordan 38
2023s Jordan Flagship model is a beast and a big improvement on the Jordan 37. The Jordan 38 is lightweight and nimble, with tons of ventilation, a great no-nonsense traction setup (which in this colorway is etched into a translucent rubber sole), and a very well-balanced layered cushioning system. This cushioning system combines a Phylon midsole, a full-length Zoom Air Strobel, and a slab of Cushlon 3.0 nestled between the outsole and the midsole. The shoe retails for $200 which is steep but the Jordan 38 will be one of the best shoes of the year. Price: $200. Read the full review.
Air Jordan 3 Palomino
It’s disconcerting that the Jordan 3 Palomino is not part of the Jordan Craft series, because what we have here is an elevated and refined version of Jordan 3. Materials on this shoe are as good as it gets for Jordan, and, for some odd reason, this is one of the most comfortable Jordan 3’s we have seen in a while. It is odd because nothing is different in the midsole in regards to other Jordan 3’s so there is no real reason why these feel as squishy and nice as they do. This model fits true to size, so go with your usual size with Jordan. Retail price: $200
Air Jordan 1 Low UNC to CHI
The Jordan 1 Low UNC to CHI is yet another great retro release from Jordan Brand in 2023. This is a women’s exclusive release and a cool new colorway of the Jordan 1 Low. With the Jordan 1 Low UNC to CHI we have a fantastic build, although not technically an OG build. We have nice materials (for Jordans standards) and a very sleek design. The shoe fits true to size, but the feels slightly snug so keep that in mind. Retail price: $140
Air Jordan 1 High OG UNC Toe
The Air Jordan 1 High OG UNC Toe, simply put, is a very good-looking version of the Jordan 1 high. You get all the usual tech specs you will find in every Jordan 1 and the materials on this version a pretty nice. We have the color blocking of the black-toe Jordan 1, just switching out UNC blue for red, and we have an improved build and shape that is much more similar to the original Air Jordan 1s. They also fit true to size as usual. Retail price: $180
Jordan Luka 2
The Jordan Luka 2 is a very similar shoe to the Jordan Luka 1, so it makes sense that it would make our list of the best Jordan basketball shoes. We have basically the same traction setup, very similar cushioning (if anything the Luka 2 is slightly bouncier), and the same spring plate. The Jordan Luka 1 was designed to enhance Luka’s patented stepback and the Luka 2 takes that concept to the next level. They do feel slightly stiffer and will require more breaking time. The fit is true to size. Read the full review. Price: $130
Air Jordan 7 Chambray
The Chambray version of the Air Jordan 7 is not an OG colorway of the shoe, but this is technically a retro because the Chambray colorway was originally released in 2006. This version is not as good as the 2006 version, unfortunately. Materials are decent, the colorway itself is excellent but the build is slightly wonky on certain pairs. If you can pick these up in-store and make sure you’re getting a well-built pair, that would be the move. Retail price: $200
Air Jordan 1 Low OG Black Toe
A fantastic version of the Air Jordan 1 Low. The colorway is sleek and elegant and is one of the best-looking Jordan 1 lows that have been released. On top of that materials, although not premium, are decent and more importantly soft, making this a very comfortable pair of low Jordan 1’s. Retail price: $140
Air Jordan 2 Low UNC
The Jordan 2 Low UNC is another top-notch retro release from Jordan Brand in 2023. With the Jordan 2 Low UNC we have a fantastic build, excellent “pre-aged” materials and a sery sleek design. This version of the 2s is slightly less comfortable than the OG 2 highs that were released earlier in the year, but it still feels really great on foot. The shoe fits true to size, but the feels slightly snug so keep that in mind. Retail price: $175
Jordan 1 Spider-Man Across The Spiderverse
This ultra-exclusive version of the Jordan 1 is inspired by the Jordan 1’s The Prowler version of Miles Morales wore in Spiderman Across The Spiderverse. These things come equipped with all sorts of pockets and pouches where, presumably, The Prowler would stash different tools to aid him in his mischief. These Jordan 1s are more of a movie prop than an actual shoe that you would wear on a daily basis, but they are still super cool and very well-built.
Jordan Jumpman MVP
The Jordan Jumpman MVP are a, somewhat polarizing, new hybrid model from Jordan Brand that bled together 3 iconic Jordan silhouettes: The Air Jordan 6, the Air Jordan 7, and the Air Jordan 8. We of course have seen many hybrids from Jordan in the past, but this is one of the more peculiar-looking ones they have put out. Materials are decent on the Jordan Jumpman MVP, not premium by any means, but slightly better than what you expect. The implementation of the different OG Jordan elements is decent, and all around this is a rather attractive model. In our opinion, however, it is also an overpriced shoe, so you may want to wait until they are on sale to purchase. Retail price: $165
Air Jordan 7 White Infrared
The Air Jordan 7 White Infrared is a nice combination of the essence of Jordan’s legacy while offering modern comfort (and performance as well actually). Its blend of classic design, vibrant accents, and comfortable construction makes it a standout choice for sneaker enthusiasts and basketball fans. Whether you’re a collector, a player, or simply someone who appreciates stylish footwear, the Air Jordan 7 White Infrared is a timeless piece that pays homage to the past while staying relevant in the present. Retail price: $200
Jordan Air Ship PE Every Game UNC
This is another flavor of one of the best retro releases (if not THE best) of the year, in white and UNC blue. This colorway pays tribute to the gym shorts that Michael Jordan wore underneath his Bull uniform “every game” which were made famous by their appearance in Space Jam. This was the first shoe MJ actually wore in the NBA. As the story goes, Nike didn’t have time to create the Air Jordan 1 from when they signed Jordan to the start of the season, so they put together a PE version of the Air Ship for him to use. All the colorways of the Air Ship that have dropped are excellent, and this one is no different. Retail price: $150
Jordan Air Ship PE Tech Grey
This might be the best Air Ship we have seen this season, and that is saying something because of all the Air Ships we have seen this season. This colorway stands out because, for whatever reason, this colorway seems to feature softer leather on the upper which is always a thing to celebrate. The Air Ship was the predecessor to the Air Jordan 1, and MJ actually wore them in the league. For that reason, we have similar tech specs to the AJ 1 in this model, all of which are detailed in the booklet that comes with the shoes (pretty neat). The shoe fits true to size, and they are wide-foot-friendly thanks to the forefoot bungie. Retail price: $150
Air Jordan 1 High OG Craft: Vibrations Of Naija
The Craft series has been turning out to be a great one from Nike, and these Jordan 1s are no different. This colorway supposedly pays tribute to Nigeria, with the new collar paneling and the swoosh, which in this version of the shoe come in an odd turf-style material. The rest of the materials on the shoe are really nice, especially considering these are Jordans. The leather is soft, the vinyl tongue is on point, they come with 2 sets of laces, and in general, the build quality is top-notch. they fit true to size as always, and this is just another great shoe in the Craft series from Nike. Retail price: $179
Air Jordan 1 Washed Black
No one knows why these new Air Jordan 1s are called “Wahsed Black” but that is what the Sneakerverse is calling them, therefore, so are we. This shoe features some of the best materials used recently on a Jordan 1. That doesn’t mean that they are great overall, but they aren’t bad by any means. In fact, the suede overlays are pretty darn good, which makes this one of the most surprising Jordan 1 High releases of the year. You get all the usual tech specs that are featured in any Air Jordan 1, and the shoe fits true to size. Retail price: $179
Air Jordan 14 Laney
This version of the Jordan 14 pays tribute to Laney High School, the High School that MJ himself attended back in the day. This is the second time this colorway has retro-ed, and in general, this is one of the best-performing OG Jordan hoop shoes. The shoe was actually designed taking inspiration from Michael Jordan’s Ferrari and it performs like one. It features a lightweight, low-ridding Phylon midsole, with Zoom Air units in the heel and forefoot. The upper, in this case, features synthetic suede on the toe, and Nubuck on the side panels. Neither material a great, but the not terrible either. The Jordan 14 fits true to size, so go with your usual size. Retail price: $175
Jordan Jumpman Pro
The Jordan Jumpman Pro was once a beat of a hoop shoe, but sadly, no longer. The Jordan Jumpman Pro was the Team Jordan shoe that was released alongside the Jordan 12 back in 1997. The shoe used to offer practically the same exact tech specs that were featured in the Jordan 12 but at a reduced price. This was a wonderful concept that allowed more price-sensitive customers to get their hands on a top-tier performance model from Jordan. Unfortunately, the recent retros of this shoe are just hollowed-out versions of the original. Bad materials, almost no tech, but they still look like the originals, so there is that. Retail price: $175
Air Jordan 2 Cool Grey
The Jordan 2 Cool Grey is a fantastic version of the Jordan 2’s, so if you are one of the few fans of 2’s out there in the sneaker verse, this is a model you might want to pick up. The Cool Grey colorway is a woman’s release, so keep that in mind in regards to sizing, and features really great materials and build. We have a primarily Nubuck upper, and in this case, it is a really good cut of leather, and the side panels in this version of the shoe are suede. In terms of tech specs, we have the OG Jordan 2 tech specs, so no full-length Air. All in all, just a really nice version of the Jordan 2. Retail price: $175
Jordan Air Ship Every Game
The worst thing about the Jordan Air Ship retro is the lack of availability, everything else is fantastic. The Air Ship is actually a very important, and underrated Jordan shoe. In fact, the shoe that was actually banned by the NBA for violating uniformity rules was not the Air Jordan 1, as it is commonly believed, it is this shoe right here (in the black and red colorway of course). This colorway was actually a PE model and features all the same tooling you will find on an AJ 1 1985. Materials on the Air Ship are some of the finest you will see from Nike, they come with a very nice insole, and it is simply one of the most comfortable retros you can lace up. They fit true to size so go with your usual size with Nike. Retail price: $200
AJ 1 High OG Next Chapter
This Spiderman-inspired Jordan 1 is one of those releases you either love or hate. It feels like a shoe that is better suited for Kids, but if you are an adult Spiderman fanatic, these are a must. The design is supposed to reflect a Jordan 1 Chicago that is passing through the multiverse, therefore, the forefoot of the shoe looks like your typical Jordan 1, and then the design gets crazier and crazier towards the heel. The outsole is a bright red translucent rubber that also glows in the dark, and actually glows green. The materials along the upper are pretty decent, and in terms of sizing the AJ 1s will be available in kids sizes and adult sizes alike. Retail price: $200
Air Jordan 6 Toro
The Air Jordan 6 Toro is a pretty great colorway of the AJ 6, albeit a bright red one. The construction and shape of this shoe is fantastic, and that has a lot to do with the material Jordan Brand chose to build the upper with. The upper on these Jordan 6s is 100% suede and some of the best suede you will find on Jordan products, which still isn’t premium overall. Tech-wise you have all the usual bells and whistles of any aIr Jordan 6. The shoe fits true to size, but keep in mind that Jordan 6s arent heavily padded on the inside so there will be extra room. If you have a narrow foot, you may want to go down half a size. Retail price: $200
Jordan AJKO 1 Low
The Jordan AJKO 1 Low and all AJKO models were (and still are) take-down versions of the Air Jordan 1. In fact, AJKO stands for Air Jordan Knock-Off. Now even though this is a “cheaper” version of the Air Jordan 1, it doesn’t mean that these are a lesser shoe, especially nowadays when both of these models are used almost exclusively for casual use. The upper on the AJKO Low, instead of being built in leather, is canvas, and there is no Air unit in the heel of the shoe. The shoe does come equipped with a dense ortho-lite insole which does add a lot of step-in comfort. The AJKO fits true to size so go with whatever size you usually use with Jordan. Retail price: $120
Jordan Stadium 90
The Jordan Stadium 90 is a new lifestyle model from Jordan that draws design inspiration, according to Jordan Brand, from the Air Jordan 5 and the Air Jordan 1, but there are also clear nods to the Jordan 4 sprinkled in the design as well. The Air Jordan 5 and Air Jordan 1 design cues are evident (the collar, the logo placement, the forefoot wings, etc.) but, although hidden, we have some hits of the Air Jordan 4 (the Air Jordan logo behind the tongue, the side webbing, and the heel cup). Tech-wise this shoe is equipped with Jordan’s Formula 23 foam cushioning, as well as a heel Air unit. Unfortunately, this setup feels more neutral than anything else. Materials are not amazing on the general release version of the shoe, but on the SE edition, they are, and that version is just $5 more expensive, so go with that version if you can. Retail price: $140
Nike Air Zoom Vapor AJ3
This Roger Federer tennis shoe is a very decent tennis shoe but also a pretty great outdoor hoop shoe as well. The NikeCourt Air Zoom Vapor AJ3 comes equipped with a solid rubber outsole built to endure play on hard-court surfaces, with full-length herringbone in different configurations along the sole. In terms of cushioning, we have a Phylon midsole with a Zoom Air unit in the heel, which is more on the reactive side of things. The shoe also comes equipped with a TPU shank plate, and TPU lateral containment units, as well as a full leather upper. Retail price: $180
Air Jordan 5 Craft
Here we have another excellent “Craft” Jordan drop. This colorway pays tribute to the original Jordan Flight Club. The Jordan Flight Club was a mail-away social club of sorts that was in existence from 1987 to 1991. The colorway uses colors from the branding of the Flight Club merch. In terms of tech specs, no surprise we have all the usual tech specs that we always have in a Jordan 5. The upper is where you will find the biggest changes in regard to a typical Jordan 5. The upper is built with canvas and rough-cut suede, and they look and feel great. Retail price: $210
Air Jordan 2 White Cement
This version of the Jordan 2 might be the best retro Jordan of the year. This is a clean, sleek colorway with some of the best materials we have seen on a retro Jordan this year. In terms of tech specs, we have all the usual tooling you would find in a Jordan 2, however, this is one of the most comfortable versions we have seen, just slightly less comfortable than the Chicago colorway. Simply one of the best Jordan retros we have seen in 2023. Retail price: $175
Air Jordan 3 Lucky Green
Yet another lucky green Jordan. Following the lucky green Jordan 1’s and Jordan 2’s now we have a lucky green Jordan 3. This drop is a women’s exclusive and the colorway again pays tribute to MJ’s legendary playoff performance as a rookie when he scored 63 points on the Boston Celtics. This Jordan 3 has really nice materials and color implementation and as always, all the usual tech we find in a Jordan 3. Just a really good version of a classic silhouette, and a must for any big-time Jordan fan. Retail price: $180
Air Jordan 3 Wizards PE
This is a really special version of the Jordan 3. This specific colorway of the shoe was worn by Michale Jordan himself on court during his brief stint with the Washington Wizards. MJ played in a bunch of different shoes during that time but this was one of the coolest ones. On top of that this release feature very nice materials, those blue and copper accents, and all the usual tech we find in a Jordan 3. Just a really good version of a classic silhouette, and a must for any big time Jordan fan. Retail price: $180
Air Jordan 4 Thunder 2023
The Air Jordan 4 Thunder 2023 originally debuted in 2006 and they are finally back! The shoe retroed already back in 2012 but that version of the shoe was lacking some key details which have been improved in this iteration. Aside from that we have all the usual performance features you will find in any Jordan 4, including muti-directional herringbone traction (the first Air Jordan to feature this type of traction), a phylon midsole, and a visible air unit in the heel. In terms of materials, we have a fully synthetic nubuck upper which is good but not great. The shoe fits true to size, so go with whatever size you usually use with Jordans. Retail price: $180
Air Jordan JT 1
The Air Jordan JT 1 is Jayson Tatum’s first signature shoe with Jordan brand and one of the most highly anticipated performance basketball shoes of the year. The JT 1 features an outsole reminiscent of the Under Armour Curry 10, in the sense that Jordan has done away with most of the rubber on the outsole. Instead, we have a foam midsole that acts as traction and cushioning (similar to Under Armours Flow technology) along three-fourths of the shoe. This reduces weight in the shoe considerably, and then we also have rubber traction pods in the forefoot. In terms of cushioning, we have the same foam (lightweight Phylon) in the heel, and in the forefoot uncaged large volume Zoom Air unit. We have a TPU shank plate in the forefoot as well as a Lenoweave and leather upper which is lightweight and breathable. The Jordan JT 1 fits true to size and they are slightly slender, so wide-footers, keep that in mind. Read full review. Retail price: $120
Air Jordan 1 High OG Lucky Green
The Air Jordan 1 High OG Lucky Green was originally released back in 2009 and was created to pay tribute to Michel Jordan’s amazing 63-point outburst against the Celtics during the ’86 playoffs, and this version is way better than that 2009 release. You get all the usual tech specs you will find in every Jordan 1 and the materials on this version a pretty nice. We have the color blocking of the black-toe Jordan 1, just switching out green for red, and we have an improved build and shape that is much more similar to the original Air Jordan 1s. They also fit true to size as usual. Retail price: $180
Air Jordan 1 High OG Skyline
The Air Jordan 1 High OG Skyline is another polarizing release from Jordan Brand, and part of their “Craft” line. This isn’t the first time we have seen the “skyline colorway”, the first shoe to feature this palette was the Jordan 29, and it is based on the iconic Jordan picture that inspired the logo. The materials on the upper are good but not great, and the shoes are actually miss matched. The shoe fits true to size so if you are interested go with whatever size you usually use with Jordan. Retail price: $180
Air Jordan 1 High OG White Cement
The Air Jordan 1 OG White Cement is really nice if you love elephant print, if not you might want to pass on these. All you need to know about this shoe is that this is your usual Jordan 1, there’s tons of elephant print, you get an extra pair of laces and these guys fit true to size. You either hate’em or love’em. Retail price: $180
Air Jordan 1 High OG Washed Pink
The Air Jordan 1 High OG Washed Pink is super pink, so if you like pink and Air Jordans, this is the shoe for you. You bet all of the usual tech specs you usually get in an Air Jordan 1. You get nice materials, nothing amazing but the white leather portions are great and the suede portions are decent also. This is a woman-only release, so there isn’t a full-size run of the shoe, but if you find your size, they do fit true to size. Retail price: $180
Air Jordan 13 Black Flint
The Air Jordan 13 Black Flint is a remix of the classic Air Jordan 13 flint so we have OG color blocking just using new colors, which we love here at Wertesters. This shoe is equipped with all the classic tech you usually get in a Jordan 13 which is excellent and makes this Jordan one of the best on-court performance models on the OG lineup. The shoe fits true to size, and if you like a more snug fit, you should be ok going with half a size less. Retail price: $200
Air Jordan 12 Cement Grey
The Air Jordan 11 low is back in a brand new colorway. The Air Jordan 11 Cement Grey supposedly pays homage to the Jordan 3 Cement grey. This version of the Jordan 11 also has UNC/ Legend blue accents that play off the grey patten leather. You get all the classic performance features (carbon fiber shank plate, full-length air, and herringbone traction) as well as the same materials (cordura mesh and patten leather). The shoe fits true to size, but there is some extra space in the forefoot. Retail price: $190
Air Jordan 1 SE (Space Jam)
This version of the Air Jordan 1 Mid pays tribute to the Air Jordan 11 Space Jam, as you can see by the translucent outsole and the patent leather. You get all the usual tech specs you get with an Air Jordan 1, no updates there, but that “re-imagined” upper is quite different from your usual Jordan 1’s. You get a combo of pretty decent almost leather and patent leather details. The materials are good for an Air Jordan 1 Mid, but still, nothing special. Retail price: $140
Air Jordan 4 x Nike SB
The Jordan 4 x Nike SB is a collab model between Jordan Band and Nike Skate Boarding. This isn’t the first collab shoe we have seen between these two Nike sub-brands, but it is the first time we have seen a Jordan 4 SB. RIght off the bat, they did an excellent job getting the shape of the shoe right, which, judging by previous Jordan 4 releases, is no easy task. Aside from that, we have a few material changes to make the shoe more Skate friendly. The green plastic eyelets are of a more flexible rubber so they won’t break as easily, as is the green heel tam. Everything else on the shoe is exactly like an OG Jordan 4, with really nice materials. A great release from Jordan / Nike SB.Retail price: $225
Air Jordan 2 Low UNC to CHI
The Jordan 2 Low UNC to CHI is another great retro release from Jordan Brand in 2023. This is a women’s exclusive release and a wonderful new colorway of the Jordan 2 Low. With the Jordan 2 Low UNC to CHI we have a fantastic build, excellent “pre-aged” materials and a sery sleek design. This version of the 2s is slightly less comfortable than the OG 2 highs that released earlier in the year, but it still feels really great on foot. The shoe fits true to size, but the feel slightly snug so keep that in mind. Retail price: $120
Air Jordan 5 University Blue
The Jordan 5 University Blue is part of Jordan Brand’s colligate pack, and just like the rest of the shoes in the pack, this model is excellent. When we are talking about how good a retro is, one of the main thing we are looking for is great materials, and that is exactly what these UNC-inspired Jordan 5s have. We have a full genuine nubuck upper and tech-wise we have everything we had in the original Jordan 5s. The build is also very attractive, even though it isn’t exactly and OG Jordan 5 build. They fit true to size if you are interested in a pair. Retail price: $225
Jordan One Take 4
The Jordan One Take 4 is the fourth model in Russell Westrbrook’s budget signature line. The One Take series has been pretty consistent over the years, and the One Take 4 is no different. The shoe features full-length herringbone traction and a pretty strong rubber outsole that should hold up well outdoors. A phylon midsole with a forefoot air unit for cushioning, a dinky TPU shankplate and some very cheap materials along the upper. Watch the full review for the full breakdown, but this model is good but not great. It is a shoe better suited for those looking for a reactive hoop shoe that wont break the bank. Price: $110
Air Jordan 4 Oil Green
The Air Jordan 4 is an absolutely classic silhouette and for many the best-looking retro Jordan of all time. This time around we get them in this olive green colorway. This version of the shoe is pretty good. The shoe packs all the usual tech you get in a Jordan 4 (herringbone traction, air unit in the heel, etc.) and is constructed with some pretty decent materials. This is one of the most well-ventilated retro Jordans if that is important to you. This is a woman’s release, so, keep that in mind in terms of sizing (for men go up a size and a half) Watch the full review. Price: $180
Air Jordan 12 A Ma Maniére
This is an excellent collab model. It is not a classic Jordan 12, but it is a great shoe either way. The shoe packs all the same performance goodies as a traditional Jordan 2 including full-length Zoom Air, a carbon fiber shank plate, and herringbone traction. The shoe is also built with some really nice materials including almost premium leather and some really nice burgundy suede accents. We also get A Ma Maniére branding on the heel, eyelets, and tongue of the shoe. They fit true to size so go with your usual size. Watch the full review. Price: $225
Air Jordan 6 Cool Grey
The Air Jordan 6 was originally released in 1991, and it is the shoe with which Michael Jordan won his first championship. It doesn’t get more classic than that. This shoe is not an OG colorway, but it does use the color blocking of one: The Air Jordan 6 Carmine. This is an excellent version of the Air Jordan 6. We have the classic 90’s looking outsole, an encapsulated forefoot air unit, and in the heel. The upper is excellent, we have synthetic nubuck in the grey portions, and the white ones feature some really nice (for Jordan). They fit true to size, but many prefer to go down half a size as there is little padding within the shoe. Watch the full review. Price: $210
Top Jordan Brand Models
Top Jordan Brand Performance Model
Jordan Luka 1
The Jordan Luka 1 is a great first signature model for Luka Doncic. The Jordan design team did well on this one. Jordan Brand used the Luka 1 to introduce its newest foam cushioning system: Formula 23. Right off the bat, you’ll feel how comfortable it is underfoot. Support is an obvious priority with the IsoPlate system acting as torsional support while really beefing up lateral support for extra support on stepbacks and defensive slides. And at $110 ($120 for the special editions), you get a lot of performance for the money. Read the full review. Price: $110
Top Jordan Brand Lifestyle Model
Air Jordan 1 Black and White High
This is one of the cleanest and most sleek colorways of this shoe, and believe it or not, it is an OG colorway. This version of the Air Jordan 1 is nearly perfect in terms of construction, and as close to the OG version as you can get. They even come with thick, performance leather! The attention to detail is amazing in this shoe and technically these bad boys are playable. Price: $180
Jordan Brand Athletes
Jordan Brand Reviews
Jordan Brand History
When the GOAT was entering the league and fielding sponsorship offers, Nike was pretty low on his list. At the time, Nike was a struggling running shoe brand on the mend, concentrated on reinventing itself as a company for sports superstars.
Jordan really wanted to sign with Adidas, but the German sneaker brand wasn’t able to put together an offer as the company was undergoing a leadership shift at the time.
Converse also tried to bring MJ on board. Mike had rocked Converse in college playing for UNC (University of North Carolina) and was already familiar with the brand and what it brought to the table. But Converse already had several NBA superstars signed and Magic Johnson and Larry Bird were the faces of the brand. Converse made an offer, but apparently Michel wasn’t impressed and felt he would be just another basketball player on their already stellar roster of sponsored athletes.
Still, Michel wasn’t sure about signing with Nike. Even after Nike offered MJ $500,000 a year for five years, Jordan took the offer to Adidas and to see if the brand could get “anywhere close” to the offer. But Adidas turned him down. Hindsight is 20/20, but it’s still crazy to think Adidas passed on Mike.
Nike became Jordan’s best option by default and it ended up being a match made in heaven. Nike wanted to build an entire “brand inside the brand” around Jordan and his superhuman ability to dunk.
The Air Jordan I was released in April of 1985 and they were an instant hit. By May, Nike had sold $70 million worth of the shoes. INSANE. By the end of the year, Air Jordan had made Nike more than $100 million. Phil Knight, Nike’s co-founder, summed up the success of the Air Jordan 1’s as “the perfect combination of quality product, marketing, and athlete endorsement.”