Jordan Brand is set to release the Grape colorway of the Air Jordan 5 model on June 21, 2025. This faithful recreation of the 1990 design by Tinker Hatfield includes “Nike Air” branding on the heel, a detail returning for the first time since the shoe’s initial release. The model will be available in full family sizing, with adult pairs retailing for $215.00.
Design Details
The 2025 “Grape” stays true to the original 1990 design. The upper features premium white leather as its foundation, paired with the Air Jordan 5’s signature mesh side window panels. The color scheme remains unchanged from the original, combining white leather with Grape Ice and New Emerald accents.
A key element in this Jordan 5 Grape 2025 release is the “Nike Air” branding prominently displayed on the heel. This marks the first time since its 1990 debut that the “Grape” colorway will feature this specific original branding. Earlier retro releases in 2006 and 2013 used the Jumpman logo instead. While a laceless “Fresh Prince” version in 2018 did include “Nike Air,” its modified construction set it apart from a traditional retro.
The shoe also features a bump-out collar and a jagged midsole, elements central to the model’s appearance. This version will have a refined collar and a slightly more slanted toe shape, adjustments aimed at bringing it closer to the original 1990 silhouette. The iconic clear lace locks are also present, adding to the shoe’s recognizable profile.
Technical Construction
From a technical standpoint, the Grape 5s incorporate design elements intended for both performance and casual wear. The translucent rubber outsole, a hallmark of the Air Jordan 5, provides durable traction underfoot. The cushioning system includes visible Nike Air-sole units in both the heel and forefoot, offering impact absorption and comfort. The tongue features its reflective finish, a detail that provided visibility and style in the original design.
The ventilated quarter panel netting contributes to breathability, a functional aspect of the original basketball shoe. Molded TPU eyelets ensure secure lacing. The polyurethane midsole, colored in a violet shade with turquoise shark tooth detailing, houses the Air-sole unit and provides structural support. These technical components, while true to the model’s athletic origins, also contribute to its recognizable appearance.
Decades of Influence: The Model’s Story
First released in February 1990, the Air Jordan 5 silhouette was a creation of Tinker Hatfield. Hatfield drew inspiration from the aggressive styling of World War II P-51 Mustang fighter jets, a detail evident in the distinctive shark tooth-like jagged lines on the midsole. The Air Jordan 5 was a departure from prior models, introducing innovations such as the reflective tongue, lace locks, and clear rubber outsoles. The “Grape” colorway, a vibrant mix of white, purple, and teal, broke away from the Chicago Bulls-inspired red, white, and black schemes that had defined earlier Air Jordan releases. This color choice was unique for a performance basketball shoe at the time, quickly establishing its own visual identity.
The cultural presence of the “Grape” Air Jordan 5 extended beyond basketball courts. Its visibility in 1990s popular culture was established through several well-known appearances. Michael Jordan was featured wearing the “Grape” on the cover of a Wheaties cereal box, a widespread commercial appearance. It is worth mentioning that the “Grape” was the only original Air Jordan 5 colorway that Michael Jordan did wear during the 1989-1990 season, despite him leading the league in scoring that year with an average of 33.6 points per game and achieving a career-high 69 points against the Cleveland Cavaliers on March 28, 1990, though he wore the “Fire Red” colorway for that specific game.
Will Smith’s frequent wear of the shoes on The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air created lasting associations between the colorway and 1990s fashion culture. Smith’s styling approach, which often involved wearing the shoes without laces, became a signature look that influenced streetwear trends throughout the decade.
Beyond the OG: Other Editions and Anniversaries
The “Grape” color scheme has appeared on other Jordan Brand products beyond the original Air Jordan 5. Variants such as the “Black Grape” and “Alternate Grape” have been released, reinterpreting the original purple and aqua midsole accents with different upper colors. Another version, the Air Jordan 5 OG ‘White New Emerald’, also uses the color scheme. However, the original “Grape” holds a central position within the Air Jordan line due to its debut as one of the four initial colorways for the Air Jordan 5. Its consistent desirability across decades underscores its lasting design.
The 2025 return of the Grape Jordans coincides with a larger anniversary year for the Air Jordan 5 model, which commemorates its 35th year since its initial introduction. Another upcoming release related to this 35th anniversary is the Air Jordan 5 OG “35th Anniversary,” scheduled for October 11, 2025. This special edition will feature a white leather upper with medium soft pink accents and a translucent outsole. The pink detailing on this model is a subtle reference to coral, which is the traditional gift associated with a 35th anniversary, adding a symbolic layer to the design. This anniversary model also incorporates stitched “23” branding on the side panel, linking back to original Air Jordan 5 designs.
Release Date
The Air Jordan 5 “Grape” releases on June 21, 2025, offering sizes for the entire family. Adult pairs will retail for $215. Younger fans can grab Big Kids’ sizes at $160, Little Kids’ for $100, and the smallest Toddler options at $85.
Model: Air Jordan 5 “Grape”
Colorway: White/Grape Ice/New Emerald
SKU: HQ7978-100
Price: 215.00 USD
Release Date: June 21
Available at: Nike SNKRS and select retailers
