The History of the Air Jordan 5

Few sneakers carry the weight of history and cultural influence like the Air Jordan 5. As part of Michael Jordan’s long-time partnership with Nike, the AJ5 remains one of the most recognizable models in the Jordan Brand lineup. From its debut in 1990 to its ongoing presence in sneaker culture today, the silhouette continues to turn heads for its mix of innovation, storytelling, and style.   A Quick Look at Jordan Brand History The Air Jordan line began in 1985 when Nike teamed up with rookie Michael Jordan to release the first-ever Air Jordan 1. The sneaker world was never the same. Each release that followed wasn’t just footwear—it was a cultural moment. The Air Jordan series became a blend of performance innovation and street-ready design, shaping the future of both basketball and fashion. By the time the Air Jordan 5 arrived, the franchise had already solidified itself as the most influential sneaker line in history.     The Story Behind the Air Jordan 5 Released in 1990 and designed by the legendary Tinker Hatfield, the Air Jordan 5 introduced bold new features that set it apart from its predecessors. Inspired by fighter jets from WWII, the shoe’s aggressive design featured shark-tooth shapes along the midsole—a nod to speed, power, and dominance. - The AJ5 also introduced several firsts to the Jordan lineup: - A reflective 3M tongue for visibility on and off the court. - Translucent rubber outsoles that added traction and a futuristic edge. - Lace locks, making performance and customization easier than ever. These details gave the AJ5 a distinctive look that stood out both on the hardwood and in everyday wear.     Why the Air Jordan 5 Remains Iconic More than three decades later, the Air Jordan 5 remains one of the most celebrated sneakers in the Jordan catalog, thanks to a perfect storm of influence and design. Michael Jordan wore the AJ5 during one of his most dominant NBA seasons, a cultural moment that instantly elevated its legacy on the court. Off the hardwood, the sneaker found new life in pop culture—appearing on The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air and earning countless nods in hip-hop, which helped it transcend basketball to become a lifestyle staple.  Its design also plays a major role in its staying power; the bold midsole detailing, icy translucent outsoles, and reflective tongue remain just as eye-catching today as they were in 1990. And with a versatility that allows it to be styled effortlessly with both modern fits and vintage looks, the AJ5 continues to bridge generations of sneakerheads around the world.   The Air Jordan 5 at FEATURE At FEATURE, we recognize the staying power of the Air Jordan 5. It’s more than just a sneaker—it’s a piece of history that continues to inspire new styles and collaborations. Whether you’re a longtime collector or just starting your Jordan journey, the AJ5 is a must-have in any rotation. Explore the latest Air Jordan releases, including the Air Jordan 5, now available at FEATURE.