Upcoming Air Jordan 5 Release Dates and New Colorways for 2025 and 2026

The Air Jordan 5 (V) remains one of the most culturally significant silhouettes in the Jordan Brand catalog. Originally released in 1990 and designed by the legendary Tinker Hatfield, the sneaker was inspired by World War II fighter planes, characterized by its aggressive lines and iconic "shark tooth" midsole. As we head into late 2025 and throughout 2026, the brand is refreshing this classic with a mix of OG-inspired retros and bold new collaborations.

For those tracking the latest drops, the most significant upcoming releases include the Air Jordan 5 "White Metallic" (April 25, 2026) and the Air Jordan 5 "Fire Red" Black Tongue (September 13, 2025).

Key Air Jordan 5 Releases Scheduled for 2026

The 2026 roadmap for the Jordan 5 is particularly exciting for purists. Jordan Brand is leaning heavily into the "Remastered" aesthetic, ensuring that the shape, materials, and branding closely mimic the original 1990 specifications.

Air Jordan 5 White Metallic (Releasing April 25, 2026)

This is arguably the most anticipated release for the first half of 2026. The "White Metallic" colorway is a masterclass in minimalism. It features a premium white leather upper complemented by metallic silver accents on the tongue and the shark teeth.

The standout feature for this 2026 version is the return of the "Nike Air" branding on the heel. For years, collectors have debated the merits of the Jumpman vs. the Nike Air logo; the latter is universally considered the gold standard for OG authenticity. At a retail price of $220, this pair is expected to sell out instantly on the SNKRS app.

Air Jordan 5 Wolf Grey (Releasing February 28, 2026)

Returning for the first time in over a decade, the "Wolf Grey" is a fan-favorite non-OG colorway. Unlike the leather builds, this pair utilizes a light graphite nubuck that provides a matte, sophisticated texture. White contrast stitching defines the panels, while the icy translucent outsole prevents the grey palette from feeling too muted. This release targets the lifestyle segment of the market, offering a versatile look that pairs easily with modern streetwear.

Air Jordan 5 Black/University Blue (Releasing June 20, 2026)

Last seen in 2006, this colorway—often associated with the "UNC" (University of North Carolina) themes—is making a massive comeback. The upper consists of deep black nubuck, which serves as a canvas for the vibrant University Blue hits on the inner lining and the Jumpman logo. It represents a bridge between Jordan’s professional legacy in Chicago and his collegiate roots in North Carolina.

Air Jordan 5 Sunset (Releasing July 1, 2026)

The "Sunset" colorway holds historical significance as the first-ever women’s exclusive Air Jordan 5. Its return after 20 years is a major nod to the growing influence of female sneakerheads. The shoe features a clean white base with a striking orange-to-red gradient on the midsole, mimicking the transition of a summer sunset.

Heavy Hitters Arriving in Late 2025

Before we reach the 2026 slate, the end of 2025 serves as the 35th-anniversary celebration of the silhouette. Jordan Brand has curated a selection of pairs that honor the shoe's three-and-a-half decades of dominance.

The 35th Anniversary Retro (October 11, 2025)

Official details describe this as the "Medium Soft Pink" edition. It marks a shift toward more diverse color palettes, moving away from the aggressive "Bred" (Black/Red) schemes. The upper is primarily white, with soft pink accents on the shark teeth and lace locks. While it may seem like a departure from the "fighter jet" origins, the use of soft hues on such a rugged silhouette creates a compelling visual contrast that has become a staple of modern high-fashion collaborations.

Air Jordan 5 Fire Red Black Tongue (September 13, 2025)

No anniversary is complete without a "Fire Red" drop. This specific iteration features the "Black Tongue," distinguishing it from the silver-tongue version. It is one of the four original colorways from 1990. The 2025 version is expected to feature high-quality leather and the iconic "23" embroidery on the lateral heel—a detail that was originally exclusive to Michael Jordan’s player editions but has since become a hallmark of the retro line.

Air Jordan 5 Tokyo (September 30, 2025)

The "Tokyo T23" was once one of the rarest Jordan 5s in existence, originally released to celebrate the opening of a Jordan Brand store in Japan. The 2025 version brings back that iconic yellow upper. In the secondary market, original pairs from 2011 have fetched thousands of dollars. Bringing this back as a general or semi-limited release is a strategic move to satisfy long-term collectors.

Design Innovations and Technical Specifications

What makes a "new" Jordan 5 different from a vintage pair? While the aesthetic remains rooted in 1990, the manufacturing processes have evolved.

The 3M Reflective Tongue

One of the most revolutionary features of the AJ5 was the use of 3M reflective material on the tongue. Tinker Hatfield designed this so that the shoes would "pop" when photographers used flashbulbs during NBA games. In the new 2025 and 2026 releases, the 3M quality has been stabilized to prevent the cracking and peeling seen in earlier retros from the early 2000s.

Plastic Side-Panel Netting

The "netting" on the side panels was originally implemented for breathability. However, vintage pairs often suffer from "yellowing" over time due to oxidation. The new releases for 2026 utilize updated TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane) formulations that are more resistant to UV light and environmental moisture, helping the "icy" look last significantly longer.

Lace Locks and Toggle Systems

The Jordan 5 was the first basketball shoe to feature a functional lace lock. In recent wear-tests, the updated toggles on the "new" series have been reinforced with more durable internal springs, ensuring that the lockdown fit remains consistent whether you are wearing them for fashion or on a basketball court.

Cultural Collaborations: The "El Grito" Influence

The "new" Jordan 5 isn't just about color swaps; it's about storytelling. The Air Jordan 5 "El Grito", released in late 2024 and continuing into the 2025 cycle, is a prime example. This shoe celebrates Mexican and Latin American culture.

Unlike standard retros, the "El Grito" features embossed details on the toe and heel inspired by Talavera pottery. The red and green lace locks are a direct homage to the Mexican flag. By collaborating with figures like rapper El Malilla, Jordan Brand is positioning the V as a global canvas for cultural expression, rather than just a performance basketball shoe.

Performance vs. Lifestyle: How to Choose

When looking at the "new Jordan V" lineup, it is important to distinguish between those built for the court and those built for the street.

1. Leather Uppers (e.g., White Metallic, Fire Red): These offer the most structural support. Leather breaks in over time and conforms to the foot, making them better for occasional on-court use.
2. Nubuck/Suede Uppers (e.g., Wolf Grey, Black/University Blue): These are lighter and softer out of the box but are much more susceptible to water damage and staining. These are strictly lifestyle choices meant for dry weather and clean pavement.

Why the Jordan 5 Continues to Trend

The "shark tooth" design remains its most recognizable feature. Inspired by the American P-51 Mustang fighter plane, these jagged shapes on the midsole give the shoe a sense of forward motion. In an era where "chunky" sneakers and "retro-tech" are trending, the AJ5 fits perfectly into the modern wardrobe. It provides enough volume to balance out wide-leg trousers or cargo pants, which are currently dominating the fashion landscape.

Summary of Upcoming Release Dates

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Are new Jordan 5s true to size?

Generally, yes. Most users find that the Air Jordan 5 fits true to size (TTS). However, because of the thick padding in the collar and the internal lining, those with very wide feet may prefer going up a half size.

How do I prevent the soles from turning yellow?

The "icy" translucent soles turn yellow due to oxidation. To slow this process, keep your shoes in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. After wearing them, wipe the soles clean of any moisture or dirt before storing them.

Where is the best place to buy new Jordan 5s?

The Nike SNKRS app is the primary source for all "new" and limited drops. Authorized retailers like Foot Locker, JD Sports, and Hibbett also receive stock for general releases. For pairs that have already sold out, reputable secondary markets like StockX are the standard.

What is the 3M tongue?

The 3M tongue refers to a reflective material that shines brightly when exposed to direct light or camera flashes. It is a signature design element of the Air Jordan 5.

As 2025 and 2026 approach, the Air Jordan 5 is set to reclaim its spot at the top of the sneaker hierarchy. Whether you are chasing the nostalgia of the "White Metallic" or the bold vibrancy of the "Tokyo" colorway, there is a "new Jordan V" for every type of collector. Keep an eye on the SNKRS calendar, as dates and prices are subject to change based on global shipping and production schedules.