2025 was as busy as expected for the Air Jordan 5, with the silhouette celebrating its 35th anniversary through multiple Sneaker of the Year contenders like the AWAKE NY collab and “Black Metallic Reimagined.” Don’t look now, but 2026 could prove even better, led by standout retros of styles originating from the 2000s and 2010s.
The first Air Jordan 5 of 2026 might just go down as the year’s best: the first ever retro of “Wolf Grey” 5s from 2011. After being pushed back from January, the arrival of official Jordan Brand images now brings us one step closer to a release.
All things considered, Jordan Brand does a fine job replicating the 2011 edition here. One interesting point to note is that the sneaker maintains Jumpman branding on the heel as opposed to swapping in Nike Air, something Jordan Brand used to reserve for OG colorway retros but has since removed from its internal rulebook (like on the most recent “Black Cat” 4s). The shape and lateral “23” stitching, meanwhile, better align with the model’s original 1990 presentation. The color blocking and Wolf Grey nubuck upper naturally remain unaltered.
The “Wolf Grey” 5s release February 28th, 2026 in full family sizing, priced at $220 USD for adults. Nike SNKRS and retailers will carry stock. We plan on circling back with a full store list later this month. Stay tuned.
