Jordan 5 Retro

This sturdy Jordan 5 Retro is decorated in a pastel blue tone that references Michael Jordan’s time at the University of North Carolina. Fittingly, it has been nicknamed UNC, putting it alongside the other iconic sneakers with this moniker. Its outsole alternates between black and white as it moves from heel to toe, beginning with the latter colour before switching to the former under the arch of the foot, then back to white again and finishing with black around the toe. The white parts are filled with herringbone grip lines for excellent traction, and their complexion is slightly translucent, revealing a University Blue Jumpman below the forefoot. Meanwhile, the black parts are flat aside from the Jordan text debossed through the centre of the outsole and the two oblong-shaped pads either side of it.

With the outsole providing a strong base for the shoe, the midsole takes care of comfort via its use of Air cushioning in the heel, which is clearly visible through the windows placed either side of it. Jagged white sections covered in splashes of University Blue cut into the midsole’s black polyurethane exterior, giving the feature a dynamic appearance. Above this, the upper is mostly made from fine University Blue nubuck. This plush material forms the primary layer, which can be seen over the top of the forefoot and around the collar, and the overlays of the toe, quarter and heel. The last has a black Team Jumpman patch sewn into it using zigzagging University Blue thread.

The quarter contains large areas of translucent white netting on each side that provide additional breathability along the flanks. TPU panels have been set into the nubuck either side of the tongue and all the way to the top of the collar, each one marked with eyelets to hold the University Blue laces in place. A similarly coloured toggle appears over the front of the collar, allowing the laces to be easily adjusted, and the puffy tongue shines out in a reflective silver finish. A black Jumpman with a broad silver outline stands out boldly in its centre, and the back of the tongue is coated in a quilted University Blue material that has a certain lustre to it. The same material continues onto the shoe’s inner walls and insole, where a white Jumpman logo can be found. Completing the design is a University Blue patch on the back of the tongue, the one on the right foot hosting the word “Heart” and that on the left “Soul” – a powerful ending to a stylish sneaker.