There are a lot of different designs to take into account when deciding upon the best Jordan 5 colorways as, despite the model being over 30 years old, the brand is still manufacturing new variations to this day.
While the original four colorways from 1990 remain fan favorites, we've picked out a few of our favorite showstopping designs from some of the more recent Jordan 5 releases.
From Retro remakes, like this "Raging Bull" colorway, to standout low-top sneakers in celebration of "Chinese New Year", we've rounded up the very best right here.
We've also highlighted a few upcoming Jordan 5 releases for you to mark in your diary to add to your collection in the near future.
Best Jordan 5 Colorways
- Air Jordan 5 Retro "Stealth"
- Air Jordan 5 Retro "Raging Bull"
- Air Jordan 5 Retro Low "Chinese New Year"
- Air Jordan 5 Retro "Bluebird"
- Air Jordan 5 Retro "Quai 54"
Best All-Round Jordan 5 Colorway - Air Jordan 5 Retro "Stealth"
The Air Jordan 5 Retro "Stealth" revives the original 2006 colorway but includes a few subtle twists to give the look its own unique identity.
Firstly, in keeping with the OG, the "Stealth" is constructed out of genuine white leather, while the tongues feature the classic reflective silver panels.
However, the sneakers then differ from the original with their black highlights and blue-splatter finish.
Ultimately, we feel the 2021 "Stealth" colorway is one of the best examples of Jordan taking a beloved original and altering it slightly to give the design a new lease of life.
Best Jordan 5 Retro Colorway - Air Jordan 5 Retro "Raging Bull"
The return of the "Raging Bull" colorway was a huge moment for sneaker fans as the original was one of the most beloved Jordan 5's around.
Despite being a Retro, the 2021 remake stays true to the original coming dressed in Varsity Red, with the uppers constructed out of a rather unique suede fabric to give an almost luxury-like aesthetic.
You then get hints of black around the midsoles and eyelets, plus translucent netting to match the icy outsole layer.
It's also worth pointing out the inclusion of signature #23 on the lateral side which pays homage to the basketball legend himself.
Best Jordan 5 Low Colorway - Air Jordan 5 Retro Low "Chinese New Year"
This "Chinese New Year" colorway is an excellent example of Nike pulling out all the stops in celebration of the changing of the calendar.
At first glance, you'll notice the light cream dominating the uppers, while hints of red around the eyelets and midsoles provide a direct contrast.
Perhaps the most interesting aspect of this design though is the embroidered Chinese New Year-inspired Jordan logo on the heel counters which ties the concept together.
All in all, this "Chinese New Year" release is, in our opinion, up there as one of the best low Jordan 5 colorways around.
Best Every Day Jordan 5 Colorway - Air Jordan 5 Retro "Bluebird"
The "Bluebird" colorway takes the Jordan 5 canvas and indulges a simplistic but vibrant blue arrangement that should be perfect for everyday wear.
The uppers are made from plush suede which is then contrasted by the reflective silver tongues and darker blue eyelets.
You also get hints of white around the midsoles, while underfoot you get translucent, icy outsoles to compliment the light blue upper.
On the whole, we feel there's a lot to like about this "Bluebird" Jordan 5 design which is why we feel it deserves a place on our list.
Best Looking Jordan 5 Colorway - Air Jordan 5 Retro "Quai 54"
Named after the French streetball tournament, the "Quai 54" delivers excellent variation to the original Jordan 5 silhouette, without removing some of its most beloved features.
For example, the vintage mesh layer includes a snapshot of the tournament graphic which is a nice contrast to the usual design.
You also get a highly unique, stitched-like pattern inside the shoes and around the underside of the tongues which complements the white and black laces.
Although looks can be subjective, we feel the "Quai 54" colorway is one of the best around thanks to its original color palette combined with a few standout details.
Best Upcoming Jordan 5's
With new Jordan 5's still being made to this day, here are some of our top picks to keep an eye out for over the coming months.
Air Jordan 5 Green Bean
2022 looks set to see the return of the beloved "Green Bean" colourway from 2006 which appears to have a very similar construction to the originals.
Hints of light green appear around the grey midsoles and inner linings, while the uppers come dressed in a silvery material that is entirely reflective.
It's expected these sneakers will arrive on 7 May 2022; however, some reports suggest that this may in fact be pushed back to a slightly later release date in June.
Frequently Asked Questions About Jordan 5's
With so many different colorways to choose from, you may have a number of questions about the Jordan 5's. Don't worry though, because we're here to clear up a few of the most common queries.
Is The Air Jordan 5 Comfortable?
We've previously covered whether Jordan's are comfortable in general and, in the said guide, we state that all Jordan's, including the 5's, feature Nike's Air technology in the midsole which should make them comfortable to wear every day.
One of the most important aspects for making sure your Jordan 5's are comfortable though is to make sure you get the right fit right.
We'd recommend leaving about a finger's width of space between your longest toe and the end of the shoe as this will make sure your sneakers are bending in the correct place as it should align to the natural bend of your foot.
Do Jordan 5's Run Big?
Following on from whether Jordan's are comfortable, it's widely regarded that all Jordan's fit true to size for both everyday wear and on the court action.
With that being said, you may find going a size up to be beneficial if you've got slightly wider feet as this should ensure your feet remain comfortable and supported if you plan on playing basketball in your 5's.
If you're still unsure, then Nike usually has a handy size guide to help you determine which is the right option to go with.
Can You Run In Jordan 5's?
This is another topic we've previously covered in our guide on whether Jordan's can be used for running. In our article, we state that while it is possible to run in 5's, we'd advise against it for the most part and select a dedicated running shoe instead.
The main reason for this is because Jordan 5's are considerably heavier than most trainers which may have an adverse effect on your performance due to feeling weighed down.
In fact, a 2016 study into the weight of shoes found that participants ran about 1% slower for every 3.5 ounces of lead added per shoe which is obviously something you'd want to avoid when exercising.
Also, if you're wearing high tops, the added ankle support may be restrictive as it's primarily used to protect you during lateral movements on the court.
Read More: Best Basketball Shoes - Our Top Picks