Nike and Jordan Brand will produce a new rendition of the classic Air Jordan 5 sneaker in the ‘Racer Blue’ colorway as part of the Spring 2022 Retro Collection. The silhouette was most recently seen in a low-top version in ‘Arctic Pink,‘ which is set to release on February 11th. This season’s collection puts innovation front and center, introducing new takes on classic shapes, as well as sustainable materials and production process.
Take an in depth look at the new sneaker after the jump, and stay tuned to our sneakers section for more information on Jordan new releases.
Air Jordan 5 History
The Tinker Hatfield designed Air Jordan 5 was first introduced in the 1990 in four different colorways. When creating the concept for the Jordan 5, Hatfield took Jordan’s attacking style into consideration. The aesthetics and design of the sneaker had to reflect Jordan’s mindset, in addition to being functional and supportive of the world’s greatest athlete’s feet.
The design of the Jordan 5 sneaker was inspired by the aggressive aesthetic of famed World War II era P-51 Mustang fighter jet. The Mustang was developed by North American Aviation in 1940 and helped maintain Allied air superiority during World War II conflicts in Europe, Africa, and the Pacific, with Mustang pilots claiming to have destroyed over 4,950 enemy aircraft at one point.
A variation of the P-51 called “The Shark” features a shark teeth motif running up the barrel of the jet, right next to the propeller. On the Jordan 5’s midsole, you can clearly see where that inspiration came from.
The Air Jordan 5 is a trendsetting sneaker within the Air Jordan series. It was the first shoe in the line to have a clear outsole. Tinker Hatfield had previously developed Marty McFly’s Nike MAG, which featured clear molding on the outsole, allowing light to pass through. Word is that’s where Hatfield got the concept for the Jordan 5’s clear sole.
Since its initial retro-ing in 2000, the V5 has been re-released throughout 2006-2009, 2011-2013, and 2013-2017. The “Laney” Vs (named after Jordan’s high school), “Green Bean” Vs, Wolf Grey Vs, and “Raging Bull” Vs are some of the most popular non-OG versions.
Air Jordan 5 Retro ‘Racer Blue’ Design
For this years iteration, the majority of the base layer is made from durable nubuck leather, which is painted a solid black color. The tongues have a luminous coating, and the netting on the mid-foot and behind the shoe laces fronts its typical see-through look. “Racer Blue” accents can be found on the tongues and lower heels, as well as the lacing toggles and midsole components. The treading is ice blue, and the midsoles include spiky embellishments with a subtle paint job.
Contrasting royal blue touches can be found on the embroidered Jumpman logo and the internal lining. Lightweight cushioning is provided by a polyurethane midsole with black shark teeth design and visible Air-sole cushioning in the heel. A translucent rubber outsole provides sticky traction underfoot.
Air Jordan 5 Retro ‘Racer Blue’ 2022 Release Details
The Air Jordan 5 “Racer Blue” is set to drop on February 12th on Nike.com and at select Jordan Brand retailers for $200. If you can’t wait for the drop, the sneakers are already available at GOAT and Fight Club right now.
In case you missed it: Air Jordan 1 Retro High OG ‘Dark Marina Blue’ Release
Air Jordan 5 Retro “Racer Blue” Details
RELEASE DATE: February 12th, 2022
COLOR: Black/Racer Blue-Reflective Silver
MENS: $200
STYLE CODE: CT4838-004
GRADE SCHOOL: $140
STYLE CODE: 440888-004
PRE-SCHOOL: N/A
STYLE CODE: 440889-004
INFANT & TODDLER: $70
STYLE CODE: 440890-004
