From humble beginnings back in ‘85 right through to the powerhouse it has become today, Jordan Brand has always been known for its constant innovation and creativity. The label is a subsidiary of Nike, consisting of products created specifically for Michael Jordan. First introduced with the release of the Air Jordan 1 in 1985, the brand still operates today, acting as one of the most popular sneaker labels in the world right now. Whether it’s Jordan 1s, Jordan 4s or any of the other awesome silhouettes out there, you’d be hard pressed to not find any Jordans on a sneakerhead’s wishlist.
Here at Crepslocker we’ve been stocking Air Jordans ever since we began trading, so it’s safe to say we know a thing or two about MJ’s signature kicks. We’ve decided to delve into the history books and rank our top 10 Jordans once and for all. There’s some classic releases within this list, so whether you’re a seasoned sneakerhead or new to the game, check out our list as you just might learn a thing or two! So without hesitation, let’s jump straight in and check out some of the best Air Jordans of all time.
10. Air Jordan 13 "Flint"
First launched in 1997, the Air Jordan 13 is a somewhat modern addition to this list, with the futuristic-looking performance sneaker particularly popular over in the USA. Seen here in the iconic “Flint” variation, the AJ13 is decked out in a navy hue, with hits of dark grey and white completing the look. Luxurious materials such as tumbled leather are used throughout, while the Jordan 13’s signature green emblem is present on the lateral sides. Last launched back in 2020, the colourway is regarded as a classic amongst serious Air Jordan collectors and it’s not hard to see why!
9. Air Jordan 5 Retro "Grape"
The Air Jordan 5 hit the market back in 1990, with the aggressive-looking sneaker designed by Tinker Hatfield and modelled closely on American fighter jets. While other colourways such as the “Fire Red” and “Black Metallic” are somewhat more popular, today we’ve chosen the Air Jordan 5 Retro “Grape” as our pick of the bunch. Displaying an unmistakable ‘90s look, the kicks were even worn by Will Smith during the production The Fresh Prince, making these just as iconic as any other OG AJ5. Let’s not forget just how clean those blue and purple hits look upon the white base too.
8. Air Jordan 7 "Bordeaux"
While not necessarily a fan favourite, the Air Jordan 7 still holds a special place in the heart of many sneakerheads, so we’re making sure it gets the recognition it deserves. Seen here dressed in a stealthy “Bordeaux” colourway, the silhouette boasts a nubuck construction with grey and black forming the majority of the colourway. Once again, bright colours at the tongue section create an undeniably ‘90s feel, with Jordan embroidery and Jumpman branding features throughout too.
7. Air Jordan 1 High OG "Shattered Backboard"
We’re certain it’s no surprise to anyone that the Air Jordan 1 has cropped up in this list. As Michael Jordan’s first-ever signature effort with the Swoosh, the silhouette marks a pivotal moment in sneaker history. We’ve seen plenty of epic colourways over the years, however 2015’s “Shattered Backboard” colourway is a cut above the rest. Showcasing OG colour blocking, the kicks are painted in neat orange, white and black colour scheme. This release is the definition of “simple, yet effective”.
6. Air Jordan 6 "Carmine"
Another Tinker Hatfield design makes an appearance in our list, this time in the form of the Air Jordan 6 “Carmine”. First hitting stores back in 1991, the Air Jordan 6 dropped at the peak of MJ’s popularity, making them a must-have for both sneakerheads and basketball fans alike. The iconic “Carmine” colourway seen here combines a deep red hue with a white base layer and ice-blue touches for an aesthetically pleasing arrangement, while Nike Air branding on the heels complete the look. We’ve seen a few retro releases over the years, with this pair last hitting shelves back in 2021.
5. Air Jordan 4 Retro "Black Cat"
Love them or hate them, there’s something about an all-black sneaker that just hits all the right buttons here at Crepslocker! While there’s plenty of black Jordans out there, no other option does it like the Air Jordan 4 “Black Cat”. Taking the 1989 classic sneaker and fully blacking-out the panels, the pair originally dropped in 2006. It’s only received one retro release (back in 2020) and is still easily one of the most in-demand AJ4s in existence. Sometimes less really is more.
4. Air Jordan 11 Retro "Concord"
Turning the clocks back to 1995, the Air Jordan 11 “Concord” is without a doubt the best variation of the popular silhouette. Showcasing a large patent leather panel across the toe box and forefoot, the kicks keep it relaxed with a black and white colourway, while the ice-blue outsole unit (another classic Air Jordan feature) draws the pair to a neat closure. The AJ11 “Concord” is one of the only Jordan sneakers to feature the number 45 at the heel tab, paying homage to the jersey number MJ wore when he returned to the NBA after a brief spell of retirement.
3. Air Jordan 3 Retro "Black Cement"
Coming in at number three is none other than the Air Jordan 3 in the OG “Black Cement” colourway. Displaying the now-iconic “elephant print” pattern across the uppers, the sneakers dropped for the very first time in 1988, as one of the first-ever Air Jordans designed by the legendary Tinker Hatfield. The clean monochromatic colour scheme is accentuated with hits of red across the design, while Nike Air branding on the heel tabs makes this a true OG Air Jordan. Last launched in 2018, could a retro release of this popular pair be overdue?
2. Air Jordan 4 Retro "Fire Red"
We’ve already touched on the importance of the Air Jordan 4, however it’s only right that the silhouette has cropped up again, this time coming in hot with the OG “Fire Red” colourway. As one of four original release offerings, the kicks display a Chicago Bulls-inspired appearance, with the white and black leather upper complemented perfectly with contrasting hits of red. While the model has had several retro releases over the years, it’s most notable return was in 2020, when the pair was faithfully recreated including the highly-coveted “Nike Air” logo on the heel tabs.
1. Air Jordan 1 High Retro "Chicago"
Sometimes, it really doesn’t get better than the original. That’s most definitely the case when it comes to Air Jordans, as the Air Jordan 1 High OG “Chicago” seems to repeatedly come out on top in these sorts of lists. It’s really no surprise too, as the ultra-clean white, black and red arrangement is easily the most versatile colour scheme out there. Crafted from supple leather throughout, the 1985 classic lends itself to just about any outfit possible. Last seen in 2022 through the slightly-altered “Lost and Found” release, the “Chicago” colourway remains as popular as ever even today.
