When you talk about basketball’s greatest, one name rings out louder than the rest—Michael Jordan. The man who donned the Chicago Bulls #23 jersey didn’t just play the game; he transformed it into a worldwide phenomenon. With every gravity-defying dunk, buzzer-beater, and championship ring, MJ reminded fans why he’s considered the GOAT. His presence on the court was magnetic—drawing crowds, quieting rivals, and inspiring kids around the world believe in the impossible. Alongside teammates like Scottie Pippen and against legends such as Magic Johnson, Larry Bird, and Charles Barkley, Jordan transformed every game into theatre, every season into history.

But Jordan’s influence reached far beyond basketball courts. His partnership with Nike led to the creation of the Air Jordan line, a sneaker range that transformed the idea of sportswear. These weren’t just shoes—they became cultural symbols. They embodied confidence, ambition, and a touch of MJ’s magic that anyone could put on and wear. Suddenly, sneakers stopped being just about performance; they represented personality, identity, and street culture. Owning a pair of Jordans became a rite of passage, and today’s sneaker culture was born from that passion.

And since MJ’s iconic number was 23, it’s only fitting that we highlight the 23 best Jordans of all time. Each pair tells a story—about big wins, unforgettable moments, and the evolution of style both on and off the court. From the early days of controversy to the modern retros that still sell out in seconds, these sneakers captured hearts, defined eras, and proved that Jordan’s legacy lives on every time someone laces them up.

• Best Overall Jordan: Air Jordan 1 ‘Chicago’
• Best Black Jordan: Jordan 4 Retro ‘Black Cat’
• Best White Jordan: Air Jordan 3 ‘White Cement’
• Best Collaboration: Air Jordan 1 Retro High ‘Dior’
• Best Pop Culture Jordan: Air Jordan 11 ‘Concord’
• Best Storytelling Jordan: Air Jordan 1 ‘Shattered Backboard’

• Release Year(s): 1985, 1994, 2013, 2015
• Colour-way: White/Varsity Red/Black
• Shoe Shaft Style: High-top

The Air Jordan 1 ‘Chicago’ is where it all began. Dropping in 1985, its striking combination of red, white, and black wasn’t just eye-catching—it was rebellious. The NBA hated it, slapping Jordan every time he wore them, but Nike was happy to cover the costs and used the controversy to generate hype. What started as a “banned” shoe quickly became a symbol of breaking the rules, setting the tone for every Jordan release that followed.

Over the years, the Chicago 1 has gone from a hardwood staple to a cultural icon, appearing everywhere from city streets to the big screen in The Last Dance. It’s the kind of sneaker that never loses its shine, no matter how many times it’s re-released. But here’s the catch—good luck getting your hands on a pair. Early editions fetch well into the thousands, and even the retros disappear in minutes. It’s not just a shoe; it’s history you can wear—if you’re lucky enough to snag it.

• Release Year(s): 1988, 1994, 2001, 2008, 2011, 2018
• Colour-way: Black/Cement Grey/White/Fire Red
• Shoe Shaft Style: Mid-top

1988 marked a turning point for Michael Jordan, not only on the court but also in sneakers. This is when the Black Cement 3 was introduced, the first Jordan shoe designed by Tinker Hatfield, and the one that salvaged MJ’s relationship with Nike. It featured innovations that would become iconic for the line: visible Air cushioning, striking elephant print overlays, and the debut of the Jumpman logo. Jordan wore them during the ’88 Slam Dunk Contest, soaring from the free-throw line in a moment that’s still replayed today, forever linking this sneaker to greatness.

Off the court, the Black Cement 3 cemented Jordan Brand as more than just performance footwear. It blurred the line between basketball and street style, influencing everything from music to fashion. Every retro release since has sold out quickly, proving that more than three decades later, the Black Cement 3 remains one of the most essential sneakers ever made — a perfect mix of history, design, and legend.

• Release Year(s): 2007
• Colour-way: White/Varsity Red/Metallic Silver
• Shoe Shaft Style: High-top

Released in 2007 to mark the 22nd anniversary of the Jordan line, the Air Jordan 22 OG ‘White Varsity Red’ drew inspiration from fighter jets, featuring sharp lines, a clean white leather upper, and bold accents of varsity red. It also introduced interchangeable cushioning pods in the sole, allowing wearers to select between double Zoom Air or encapsulated Air units based on preference — a nod to performance innovation that kept the line moving forward. While it didn’t have a defining “MJ moment” on the court, the AJ22 demonstrated how Jordan Brand continued to push design boundaries long after Michael’s playing days, blending technology with a bold, futuristic look that stood out in the mid-2000s sneaker scene.

• Release Year(s): 2020
• Colour-way: White/Valor Blue/Tech Grey
• Shoe Shaft Style: Mid-top

Paying homage to Michael Jordan’s college days at the University of North Carolina, the Air Jordan 3 Retro ‘UNC’ was released in 2020 and quickly became one of the cleanest modern takes on the classic silhouette. The white tumbled leather base is highlighted with soft valor blue details, elephant print overlays, and subtle branding hints that connect to Jordan’s Tar Heel roots. Although it wasn’t tied to a specific on-court moment, the ‘UNC’ 3 quickly earned a place among fan favourites thanks to its versatility — crisp enough to dress up, bold enough to stand out, and rich in nostalgia for the place where MJ’s journey to greatness began.

• Release Year(s): 2019
• Colour-way: White/Fire Red/Black/Tech Grey/Military Blue
• Shoe Shaft Style: Mid-top

Celebrating the 30th anniversary of the AJ4, the Air Jordan 4 Retro ‘What The’ was released in 2019 as a mash-up of some of the model’s most iconic colour-ways. By blending details from classics like the ‘White Cement,’ ‘Military Blue,’ and ‘Fire Red,’ Nike crafted a sneaker that felt both nostalgic and fresh. The mismatched accents and bold mix of colours made each angle of the shoe a nod to Jordan’s history, while the clean white leather base kept it wearable. It’s the kind of release that sneaker-heads love — part tribute, part remix, and all attitude, proving the AJ4 still had new stories to tell three decades after its debut.

• Release Year(s): 1991, 2000, 2010, 2014, 2019
• Colour-way: White/Infrared/Black
• Shoe Shaft Style: High-top

The Air Jordan 6 Retro ‘Infrared White’ is a sleek and timeless alternative to the Black Infrared 6 that Jordan wore during the 1991 NBA Finals. Featuring a smooth white leather upper with striking hits of infrared on the midsole and heel tab, this version maintains the championship spirit while adding a brighter, summer-ready twist on the classic. Over the years, its sharp design and historical connection to MJ’s first title run have made it a fan-favourite retro, showing that whether in black or white, the Infrared 6 will always hold a special place in Jordan Brand’s legacy.

• Release Year(s): 1991, 2000, 2010, 2014, 2019
• Colour-way: Black/Infrared
• Shoe Shaft Style: High-top

Forever linked to the moment Michael Jordan secured his first NBA Championship in 1991, the Air Jordan 6 Retro ‘Black Infrared’ is a significant sneaker in every aspect. Designed by Tinker Hatfield, the silhouette featured sleek lines, a spoiler-style heel tab, and visible Air cushioning, carrying a futuristic edge that matched MJ’s dominance on the court. The black nubuck base with striking touches of infrared gave it an instantly iconic look, and each retro release since has been met with eager demand. More than just another colour-way, the Black Infrared 6 marks the exact point where Jordan’s journey from emerging star to champion officially began.

• Release Year(s): 2018, 2020
• Colour-way: Black/Pine Green/White
• Shoe Shaft Style: High-top

The Air Jordan 1 Retro High ‘Pine Green’ brought fresh energy into the classic design with a bold green twist on the timeless black-and-white colour blocking. First released in 2018 and followed by a slightly tweaked 2020 version, this pair quickly became a favourite among fans who wanted something different yet still rooted in Jordan heritage. The vibrant pine green panels gave the shoe a standout appearance without straying too far from tradition, making it a versatile option that worked on the court, in the streets, and even in the rotation of collectors looking to add a splash of colour to their collection.

• Release Year(s): 1985, 2009, 2013, 2018
• Colour-way: Black/Medium Grey/White
• Shoe Shaft Style: High-top

Subtle yet powerful, the Air Jordan 1 Retro High ‘Shadow’ has long been a favourite for those who value understated style. First released in 1985 alongside the OG lineup, it replaced bold colours with a sleek blend of black and medium grey leather that pairs well with nearly anything. Though it never gained the rebellious spotlight of the ‘Bred’ or the instant fame of the ‘Chicago,’ the Shadow secured its place as one of the most versatile Jordan 1s ever created. Each retro release has only cemented its reputation as a go-to for collectors seeking timelessness rather than flash.

• Release Year(s): 2015, 2016 (Reverse), 2018 (Satin), 2021 (Shattered Backboard 4.0)
• Colour-way: Black/Orange/White
• Shoe Shaft Style: High-top

Inspired by the exhibition game in Italy where Michael Jordan famously shattered the glass backboard with a thunderous dunk in 1985, the Air Jordan 1 Retro High ‘Shattered Backboard’ quickly became one of the most celebrated modern Jordan 1s. The combination of black, orange, and white gave it a bold, eye-catching appearance that distinguished it from traditional colour-ways, while the premium leather quality drew even more attention. Each release since has built excitement, with fans drawn to the story as much as the design — proof that sometimes the greatest Jordans aren’t just born from championships, but from unforgettable moments that helped define MJ’s legend.

• Release Year(s): 1985, 2001, 2013, 2017
• Colour-way: Black/Varsity Royal/White
• Shoe Shaft Style: High-top

The Air Jordan 1 Retro ‘Royal’ is one of the original colourways from 1985, and while Michael Jordan never actually wore them in an NBA game, they’ve become one of the most beloved AJ1s of all time. The deep royal blue overlays paired with black leather create a bold yet versatile look that stands out from the Chicago and Bred versions. Over the years, each retro release has reignited hype, with sneaker enthusiasts considering it an essential part of the Jordan 1 legacy. Classic, clean, and forever stylish, the Royals show that sometimes you don’t need a famous on-court moment to become an icon — although if you’re eyeing the 1985 originals, be prepared to pay well over USD $10,000, a price that highlights just how legendary this pair has become.

• Release Year(s): 2020
• Colour-way: White/Red (Air Ship), White/Red (Air Jordan 1)
• Shoe Shaft Style: High-top

Released in 2020, the Jordan New Beginnings Pack brought together two sneakers that marked the very start of Michael Jordan’s sneaker journey — the Nike Air Ship, the shoe MJ actually wore during his rookie season before the Air Jordan 1 officially debuted, and a crisp red-and-white version of the AJ1 Retro High. Packaged together, the set celebrated the birth of a dynasty and gave sneakerheads a chance to own both the precursor and the legend in one box. Limited in numbers and instantly snapped up, the New Beginnings Pack was less about day-to-day wear and more about paying tribute to the moment when basketball, Nike, and Jordan all collided to change sneaker culture forever.

• Release Year(s): 2020
• Colour-way: Wolf Grey/Sail/Photon Dust/White
• Shoe Shaft Style: High-top

When high fashion met sneaker culture, the result was the Air Jordan 1 Retro High ‘Dior’, released in 2020 in extremely limited quantities. Made in Italy with premium materials, the sneaker featured a sleek wolf grey leather upper, icy translucent soles, and the Dior Oblique monogram pattern embedded in the swoosh — blending Jordan’s street legacy with Dior’s luxury craftsmanship. Limited to just 8,500 numbered pairs worldwide, this collaboration instantly became one of the most coveted Jordans ever, with resale prices soaring into five figures. More than a sneaker, it proved that the Air Jordan 1 had transcended basketball to become a true symbol of global style and status.

• Release Year(s): 2018
• Colour-way: White/White
• Shoe Shaft Style: High-top

Part of Virgil Abloh’s groundbreaking “The Ten” collection, the Air Jordan 1 Retro High Off-White ‘Europe Exclusive’ dropped in 2018 and quickly became one of the rarest and most sought-after Jordans ever. Unlike its Chicago-themed counterpart, this version featured a clean all-white design with Abloh’s signature deconstructed details, exposed stitching, and industrial-style Helvetica text across the midsole and side panels. Released only in select locations across Europe, its scarcity drove resale prices to new heights, cementing its status as both a grail for sneaker-heads and a piece of fashion history that demonstrated how far the Air Jordan 1 had come since its rebellious 1985 debut.

• Release Year(s): 2019
• Colour-way: White/Old Royal/University Orange/Tech Grey
• Shoe Shaft Style: Mid-top

The Air Jordan 3 Retro ‘Knicks’ dropped in 2019 as a tribute to one of Michael Jordan’s fiercest rivals—the New York Knicks. Featuring a sleek white leather upper with elephant print overlays, the sneaker stands out with royal blue and orange accents that pay homage to the Knicks’ iconic team colours. While Jordan frequently disappointed New York fans at Madison Square Garden, including some of his most memorable performances, this colour-way switches the narrative, honouring the rivalry that helped define his legacy. It’s a retro that blends history with style, offering fans a sneaker that is as bold and competitive as the matchups that inspired it.

• Release Year(s): 2006, 2020
• Colour-way: Black/Black/Light Graphite
• Shoe Shaft Style: Mid-top

The Air Jordan 4 Retro ‘Black Cat’ is as sleek and understated as it gets, a triple-black colourway that allows the silhouette’s design details to stand out. First released in 2006 and reintroduced in 2020, the sneaker honours one of Michael Jordan’s nicknames — “Black Cat” — a tribute to his stealth, speed, and predatory instinct on the court. Dressed entirely in nubuck with subtle graphite accents, it’s a versatile pair that pairs well with almost anything while maintaining a bold presence. Over the years, the Black Cat 4 has evolved from a sleeper release to one of the most coveted all-black Jordans, proving that sometimes simplicity is the ultimate flex.

• Release Year(s): 1995, 2000, 2006 (DMP Pack), 2011, 2018
• Colour-way: White/Black/Dark Concord
• Shoe Shaft Style: High-top

When the Air Jordan 11 ‘Concord’ first appeared on the court in 1995, it drew attention for reasons far beyond basketball. With its shiny patent leather overlays, ballistic mesh upper, and icy translucent sole, the Concord 11 looked more like a luxury shoe than performance footwear. Michael Jordan returned from his initial retirement in these sneakers and immediately reminded the world who dominated the game, leading the Bulls to a then-record 72–10 season and an NBA Championship in 1996. That mix of dominance and style made the Concord an instant classic, one that redefined what a basketball sneaker could be.

Off the hardwood, the Concord 11 became a cultural icon. From red carpets to music videos, it blurred the line between sportswear and high fashion, proving that Jordans could far exceed the basketball court. Every retro release has generated massive demand, with lines forming days early and resale prices rising rapidly. Sleek, iconic, and forever linked to MJ’s peak, the Concord 11 isn’t just one of the greatest Jordans ever — it’s one of the greatest sneakers, full stop.

• Release Year(s): 1988, 1994, 2003, 2011, 2013, 2018 (Free Throw Line), 2023 (Reimagined)
• Colour-way: White/Fire Red/Cement Grey/Black
• Shoe Shaft Style: Mid-top

Few sneakers carry the same historical significance as the Air Jordan 3 Retro ‘White Cement’. Released in 1988, it was part of Tinker Hatfield’s first Jordan design, introducing the iconic elephant print, visible Air cushioning, and the debut of the Jumpman logo. Michael Jordan famously wore them during the 1988 NBA All-Star Weekend, where he sealed his back-to-back Slam Dunk Contest wins with the legendary free-throw line dunk — a moment forever linked to the White Cement 3. Clean, bold, and instantly recognizable, it struck the perfect balance between performance and style, setting the blueprint for decades of Jordans to come.

Off the court, the White Cement 3 quickly became a cultural icon, appearing in music, fashion, and streetwear scenes worldwide. Every retro release has been met with eager anticipation, from the 2011 drop to the 2023 Reimagined edition that gave the classic a vintage twist. More than just a sneaker, the White Cement 3 marks a turning point where Jordans became more than footwear — they became symbols of greatness, legacy, and timeless style.

• Release Year(s): 1989, 1999, 2008, 2012, 2019
• Colour-way: Black/Fire Red/Cement Grey/White
• Shoe Shaft Style: Mid-top

When it comes to defining moments, few sneakers are as closely linked to basketball history as the Air Jordan 4 ‘Bred’. Originally released in 1989, it’s forever remembered as the pair Jordan wore when he made “The Shot” over Craig Ehlo in the NBA Playoffs — a moment replayed endlessly as the beginning of his rise to championship greatness. Designed by Tinker Hatfield, the AJ4 introduced mesh side panels and signature support wings, blending performance innovation with a bold black, red, and cement grey colour-way that perfectly captured Jordan’s intensity.

Off the court, the Bred 4 became a cultural icon in its own right. From hip-hop videos to sneaker collections around the world, it embodied MJ’s killer instinct in street style. Each retro release has sparked massive excitement, with the 2019 edition staying true to its OG form and reminding fans why the Bred 4 remains one of the most iconic Jordans of all time. Sleek, aggressive, and full of history, this pair isn’t just a sneaker — it’s a snapshot of MJ’s unstoppable rise.

• Release Year(s): 2017
• Colour-way: White/Black/Rust Pink
• Shoe Shaft Style: High-top

Dropping in 2017 as a Miami Art Basel exclusive, the Air Jordan 1 Retro High ‘Rust Pink’ quickly became one of the rarest modern AJ1s. With its crisp white and black leather base accented by vibrant rust pink on the heel, outsole, and toe, the sneaker stood out as a bold twist on the classic “Black Toe” blocking. Limited availability made it nearly impossible to grab at retail, and resale prices skyrocketed into the thousands. More than just a colour-way, the Rust Pink showed how the AJ1 could still surprise decades after its debut, blending heritage with a fresh, fashion-forward edge.

• Release Year(s): 2019
• Colour-way: Black/White/Metallic Gold/University Red
• Shoe Shaft Style: High-top

The Air Jordan 12 Retro ‘Reverse Taxi’ reimagined one of the model’s most popular colour-ways, offering a bold new take in 2019. Instead of the classic white upper of the OG Taxi 12, this version features rich black suede with clean white midsoles and subtle metallic gold eyelets, highlighted by small touches of red on the tongue. The result is a sleek, versatile sneaker that feels both fresh and familiar, paying tribute to Jordan Brand’s history while establishing its own place in contemporary rotations. Although not linked to a career-defining MJ moment, the Reverse Taxi demonstrated the lasting appeal of the AJ12’s clean lines and luxury-inspired design.

• Release Year(s): 2018
• Colour-way: Gym Red/White/Black/Photo Blue
• Shoe Shaft Style: High-top

Released alongside Marvel’s Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse in 2018, the Air Jordan 1 Retro High ‘Spider-Man Origin Story’ reimagined the classic Chicago 1 with a comic-book twist. Featuring translucent icy soles, reflective dot patterns across the red overlays to mimic Spidey’s suit, and subtle blue accents, the sneaker perfectly captured the film’s vibrant energy. Worn by Miles Morales on screen, it quickly became a crossover hit between sneaker culture and superhero fandom. Limited quantities and a unique story behind the design made it a must-have, once again demonstrating how the AJ1 continues to connect worlds far beyond basketball.

• Release Year(s): 1994, 2005, 2013
• Colour-way: White/Black/Light Steel Grey
• Shoe Shaft Style: High-top

The Air Jordan 10 Retro ‘Steel’ was part of the original 1994 lineup, released during Michael Jordan’s first retirement, and stood out with its clean white leather upper, black eye-stays, and subtle steel grey accents. Designed by Tinker Hatfield, the AJ10 was intended as a tribute to MJ’s career up to that point, featuring a striped outsole that listed his early achievements. While Jordan wasn’t actively playing when they first dropped, he later returned to the court wearing the 10s in different colour-ways, giving the model its place in history. The ‘Steel’ colour-way remains one of the most memorable, offering a simple yet classic design that still resonates with collectors today.

The Air Jordan story started in 1984 when Nike signed a young Michael Jordan to a then-unprecedented $2.5 million deal. At that time, Jordan wasn’t yet the global icon he would become, and Nike was taking a huge risk on a rookie. That risk paid off in 1985 with the release of the Air Jordan 1, a sneaker that changed sneaker history. The NBA famously banned Jordan’s black-and-red pair for breaking uniform rules, but Nike turned the controversy into marketing success, paying the fines and selling the AJ1 as a symbol of rebellion and individuality.

With each release, the line grew bigger and bolder. The Air Jordan 3 (1988) introduced elephant print, visible Air cushioning, and the now-iconic Jumpman logo—while tying itself to Jordan’s free-throw-line dunk at the Slam Dunk Contest. The Air Jordan 4 became forever linked to “The Shot” over Craig Ehlo, and the Air Jordan 6 carried Jordan to his first NBA Championship in 1991. These weren’t just sneakers; they were chapters of MJ’s career, immortalising his greatest moments.

By the mid-1990s, Air Jordans had become more than just performance footwear—they were a fashion statement. The Air Jordan 11 Concord, with its patent leather and luxurious design, transitioned from the basketball court to the red carpet, featuring in Space Jam and during the Bulls’ 72–10 season. From that point forward, each new Jordan was not just about technological innovation—it was about making a style and cultural statement.

Even after Jordan retired, the legacy only grew. Retro drops of classics like the AJ1, AJ3, and AJ11 continued selling out, while major collaborations elevated the brand into high fashion and pop culture. Think Dior, Off-White, and even Marvel’s Spider-Verse. These limited collaborations didn’t just attract attention—they raised price ceilings, with resale prices often starting around USD $5,000 and climbing into six figures if not more for the rarest pairs.

Four decades on, Air Jordans remain the most influential sneakers worldwide—symbols of ambition, greatness, and timeless style. What started with one rookie and a “banned” shoe has become a universal language, and the Jump man continues to soar.

Following the explosive success of the very first Air Jordan in 1985, Nike faced a challenge — how to follow up a shoe that had already broken the rules and transformed sneaker culture? The Air Jordan II, released in 1986, embraced a more premium look with Italian-made leather, but it wasn’t until 1988 that the line truly established its own identity. That’s when architect-turned-designer Tinker Hatfield took the lead, removed the Nike Swoosh, and introduced the now-famous Jumpman logo. This change elevated the Jordan line from just performance footwear — it became a cultural icon, just as at home on city streets as on the basketball court.

From that point on, the design of Air Jordans balanced innovation with personality. Each release wasn’t just a technical upgrade but a statement piece that reflected Jordan’s game and charisma. Hatfield and the design team began to incorporate daring ideas: visible Air units, elephant print, luxurious materials, and shapes that exceeded basketball conventions. The result was a sneaker line that blurred the line between sportswear and fashion, setting a new standard for what athletic shoes could mean to culture.

Air Jordan Design Elements:

• Air-Sole: The visible Air-Sole cushioning under the heel became an instant icon, debuting on the Jordan III. With Nike’s “Air” embroidery on the heel, encapsulated Air in the forefoot, and a polyurethane midsole, it combined performance with style.
• Offset ankle collar: First introduced on the Jordan V, this cutaway design offered extra flexibility without sacrificing stability, providing players with support where it mattered most.
• Patent leather: The Jordan XI introduced patent leather to the basketball scene, reportedly at MJ’s request for a sneaker that looked sharp enough to wear with a suit. It changed not only the appearance of performance shoes but also how they could be styled off the court.

These innovations helped Jordans stand out from every other sneaker brand. They weren’t just following trends; they were setting them. Each model told its own story through design, whether it was built for dominance on the hardwood or swagger on the streets. That balance of technology, style, and storytelling is exactly what makes Air Jordans timeless icons even today.

When ranking the best Jordans of all time, “best” can mean different things depending on who you ask. Some collectors seek OG colourways, others pursue rare collabs, and many fans simply want a pair they can wear every day. At Many Men Magazine, we’ve created this list by looking at the bigger picture — considering each shoe’s place in history, its influence at the time, and the legacy it holds today and into the future. From high-tops to low-tops, iconic originals to limited-edition releases, and sneakers designed for collectors or everyday wear, we’ve considered it all. Supported by research, insights from platforms like GOAT, Flight Club, and StockX, and our own passion for the culture, this list is more than just a ranking — it’s a snapshot of what makes Air Jordans timeless.