1. Blog Home
  2. Expert Advice
12 Air Jordan Retros You Must Have in Your Collection

Expert Advice

12 Air Jordan Retros You Must Have in Your Collection

Mar 18, 2025

Kicking off your sneaker collection and want some must-have Jordan styles in your closet? Look no further than Hibbett’s favorite retro Jordans. While this list is by no means exhaustive, you’ll find iconic colorways, like the Air Jordan 11 “Concord” — often considered the greatest Jordan shoe of all time — along with “Bred” Jordans that’ll give you instant sneaker cred

Wardrobe-Worthy Sneakers

While some of the Air Jordans on this list are OGs, most are retro releases. Retros in Jordans refer to rereleased versions of original Air Jordan sneakers from previous years. For example, while the first Air Jordan 1 sneaker cost $65 in 1985, that same shoe today would set you back thousands of dollars. A retro gives you the chance to get a heritage colorway or style without the inflated price tag. All Jordans are worth collecting, but if you’re just starting out, choose styles and colors you love. 

Air Jordan 1 Retro High OG “Bred”

Air Jordan 1 Retro High OG “Bred”

There’s no better way to kick off a sneaker collection than with an iconic sneaker in an equally iconic colorway. When debuted, the “Bred” sneakers His Airness sported were against NBA dress code — banned. Nike and Jordan capitalized on that point, driving the shoe’s popularity. While it’s no longer controversial, a “Bred” shoe is an absolute must in any budding sneaker collector’s closet. Air Jordan 1 Retro High OGs in “Bred” colorways fly off shelves. Can’t find them? Look for an Air Jordan 13 Retro “Bred,” last released in 2018, or cop of the “He Got Game” edition, which features white, red and black tones.

Air Jordan 11 Retro “Space Jam”

If you weren’t around for the first “Space Jam” movie that featured Michael Jordan and a zany cast of basketball-playing Looney Tunes characters, then you won’t fully understand the hold that MJ had on all of us. And if you’re not immediately singing “Fly Like an Eagle” or “For You I Will,” you can still join up with the Toon Squad in a pair of Air Jordan 11 Low Retro “Space Jam” themed kicks.

Air Jordan 4 SP x Off-White “Sail”

Want to pay tribute to the late, great fashion visionary Virgil Abloh? Get a pair of Jordan Off-White shoes in one of a handful of exclusive colorways. We’re huge fans of the “Sail” women’s-exclusive Air Jordan 4 SPs, but adding any Off-White rendition — like the Air Jordan 1 Retro “Chicago” colorway and the Air Jordan 2 Retro Low — will cement your status as a certified sneakerista or sneakerhead.

Air Jordan 4 Retro “Black Cat”

Air Jordan 4 Retro “Black Cat”

Jordan 4 Retros are often expensive due to high demand, limited releases, premium materials and resale hype. One such shoe is the “Black Cat.” Inspired by Michael Jordan’s “Black Cat” nickname, the eponymous Air Jordan 4 Retro “Black Cat” colorway and design embodies speed, agility, and dominance — both on the court and in streetwear culture. Originally released in 2006 and re-released in 2020, this fan fave features a monochromatic black nubuck upper, tonal netting and glossy black eyelets for a subtle contrast. This Air Jordan is the definition of stealthy cool, bringing back one of the sleekest all-black colorways in sneaker history. Other sneakers in the Jumpman portfolio have also gotten the “Black Cat” treatment, including the Air Jordan 6 Retro. 

Air Jordan 9 Retro “Oregon Ducks”

Jordan designer Tinker Hatfield got his start at the University of Oregon, and creating a shoe that paired his passion for his alma mater was his dream. Over the years, Hatfield has rolled out a well-rounded portfolio of Oregon Ducks Jordan brand sneakers in various silhouettes. We love the 2015 Air Jordan 4 “Oregon” with its black upper and “Jumpduck” insignia, as well as 2014’s Jordan Melo M10, which celebrates the university’s track and field program.

Air Jordan 3 Retro “White/Cement”

Air Jordan 3 Retro “White/Cement”

Michael Jordan wowed the world at the 1998 Slam Dunk contest. On his feet? The white and “Cement” Air Jordan 3 Retros. This shoe was the first to incorporate the elephant print into the lineup, introducing an unexpected element that would pave the way for newer, bolder designs in the future. Even if you can’t locate a pair of white and “Cement” Retros, watch for other models incorporating the iconic elephant print.

Air Jordan 11 Retro “Concord”

This grape-toned colorway is our jam. Featuring a heritage Jordan colorway, the “Concord” shoes have been a fan fave for, like, forever. Not only are the Air Jordan 11 Retros an MJ fave, the AJ 11s often get the nickname “Concord,” owing to that famous regal purple treatment and snazzy patent leather overlays. Can’t locate a pair of AJ 11s? Keep your eye on other “Concord” kicks, like the Air Jordan 5 Retros.

Air Jordan 12 Retro “Barons”

Air Jordan 12 Retro “Barons”

On his brief NBA hiatus, MJ went on to play minor league baseball with the Birmingham Barons. For this shoe, the Air Jordan Retro XII features a two-toned tumbled leather upper with “Wolf Grey” and black, mirroring the Alabama team’s colors. This sneaker acknowledges that liminal period that punctuated His Airness’s basketball career. The colorway of the men’s Air Jordan 12 Retro “Barons” released in fall 2024.

Jordan 5 Retro “Grape”

When you pull up to the house about seven or eight, you better have a pair of Air Jordan 5 Retros on your feet to match your vibe. Originally hyped on “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air” and launched the same year, the “Grape” sneakers feature coveted purple, teal and black accents for distinct ’90s flavor. Other retro editions, like the “Alternate Bel-Air,” will have you doing “the Carlton” when you cop a pair of these kicks.

Jordan 12 Retro “Reverse Flu Game”

On the night in 1997, His Airness showed up to play sick. Sweating bullets and feeling quite under the weather, the Bulls star managed to eke out a win, and the rest is history. The AJ 12 Retro 2020 edition of the “Reverse Flu Game” takes on a soft “University Red” suede upper with black accents for suave, sophisticated style.

Build your Jumpman collection with the assistance of Hibbett. Whether you’re a veteran collector or have kids who are just getting started, shop online or in-stores to connect with the power of the Jordan brand.

Air Jordan 4 Retro “Fear” 

Air Jordan 4 Retro “Fear” 

Featuring a gradient mix of black, dark grey, and cool grey suede, the Air Jordan 4 Retro “Fear” sneaker oozes a mysterious, almost ominous vibe. Speckled midsoles add a unique touch, while crisp white accents on the Jumpman logos, lace wings and outsole create sharp contrast. While the original pack released in 2013 as an acknowledgment of Jordan overcoming his fear, a retro in full-family sizing came out in 2024. 

WMNS Air Jordan 12 Retro “Brilliant Orange” 

The duality of orange and black makes the WNBA-inspired Air Jordan 12 Retro “Brilliant Orange” women’s shoe a hit for any player or sneakerista. Textured orange mudguards create a basketball-like look and feel, while black leather composes the balance of the sneaker. This woman’s-exclusive sneaker pays tribute to those WNBA stars who’ve changed the game. 

Building your sneaker collection is more than just a hobby—it’s a way to connect with the legacy of Michael Jordan and the culture that surrounds the iconic Jumpman brand. Whether you’re drawn to the timeless elegance of the Air Jordan 11 “Concord,” the bold statement of the Air Jordan 4 “Black Cat,” or the nostalgic vibes of the Air Jordan 5 “Grape,” each pair tells a story and adds a unique flair to your wardrobe. At Hibbett, we’re here to help you find the perfect Jordans to match your style and elevate your collection. From classic retros to exclusive collaborations, your next must-have pair is just a click or a store visit away. Start your journey with Hibbett today and step into the legacy of greatness. Your sneakerhead status awaits!

Shop the Story

You Might Also Like to Read

Recently Viewed

View All Articles