The Air Jordan 5 is already a legendary silhouette, but when it comes to high-profile collaborations and retro re-releases, sneakerheads often find themselves comparing two major contenders: the Air Jordan 5 Supreme and the Retro 5 OG. While both draw from the same roots in Michael Jordan’s performance legacy, they diverge significantly in design, cultural context, and appeal. So what sets them apart?
Let’s break down the key differences—from aesthetics and materials to resale value and streetwear influence.
A Quick History of the Jordan 5
Designed by the legendary Tinker Hatfield and released in 1990, the original Air Jordan 5 introduced features like a reflective tongue, translucent sole, and side mesh paneling. It was inspired by World War II fighter planes and famously worn by MJ during some of his most iconic NBA moments.
Over the years, the Jordan 5 became a canvas for reimaginings—from clean retros to wild streetwear collaborations like the Air Jordan 5 Supreme.
Air Jordan 5 Supreme: Hype, Collaboration & Streetwear Clout
Background
The Air Jordan 5 Supreme was released in 2015 as part of a much-hyped collaboration between Jordan Brand and Supreme, the New York skate and streetwear powerhouse. The release came in three colorways: Black, White, and Desert Camo—all infused with distinct Supreme flair.
Design Features
- Supreme Branding: Unlike traditional Jordans, these feature Supreme’s box logo under the mesh panel and bold “Sup” text stitched near the heel.
- Number 94: Instead of Jordan’s #23, the number 94 appears on the side, nodding to Supreme’s founding year.
- Material Choices: The Desert Camo version features canvas uppers, while the others use premium leather.
- Tongue: Reflective tongue with the Jumpman logo, just like the OGs—but some added texture and print elements differ.
Target Audience
This model was clearly made for the streetwear crowd. While still performance-capable, it leans heavily on style, hype, and collectability. It’s less about basketball and more about flexing.
Resale & Exclusivity
These are limited-run sneakers, which makes them highly collectible. Depending on condition and colorway, resale prices can soar. The Air Jordan 5 Supreme is a certified grail in many sneaker circles.
Air Jordan Retro 5 OG: Heritage, Authenticity & Classic Vibes
Background
The Retro 5 OG refers to re-released versions of the original colorways and materials of the Jordan 5. These stay true to the silhouette MJ wore in the early ‘90s, focusing on nostalgia and performance integrity.
Design Features
- Classic Branding: OGs stick with the Nike Air heel tab (on some editions), keeping it authentic to early Jordan releases.
- Iconic Colorways: Fire Red, Metallic Silver, and Grape are among the most popular. These colorways honor the originals that Jordan himself wore on the court.
- Number 23 Embroidery: A nod to Jordan’s jersey number, typically on the side panel.
- Material & Build: Premium leather uppers with minimal design interference; they reflect the pure basketball DNA of the original line.
Audience
The Retro 5 OG is for purists—fans who appreciate the heritage of the Jordan brand and want a pair that connects them to MJ’s golden era. It’s also a go-to for on-court performance with its comfortable midsole and excellent ankle support.
Availability
While not always easy to cop, the OGs are more accessible than limited collabs. They also receive multiple re-releases, making them a staple in many collections.
Air Jordan 5 Supreme vs Retro 5 OG: The Side-by-Side Breakdown
| Feature | Air Jordan 5 Supreme | Retro 5 OG |
| Release Year | 2015 | Various (1990 original, re-released over time) |
| Branding | Supreme + Jumpman | Nike Air + Jumpman |
| Design Focus | Streetwear, Collaboration | Authentic Retro Style |
| Colorways | Black, White, Desert Camo | Fire Red, Grape, Metallic Silver, etc. |
| Collector Value | High | Moderate to High (depending on release) |
| Performance Use | More lifestyle-oriented | Suitable for performance and style |
| Audience | Hypebeasts, Supreme fans | OG sneakerheads, Jordan purists |
What About Air Jordan Off White?
In the broader world of Jordan collaborations, many fans also compare the Air Jordan 5 Supreme with the Air Jordan Off White 5, another standout release. The Off-White 5s, designed by the late Virgil Abloh, took a deconstructed approach and introduced materials like translucent synthetic uppers, exposed foam, and circular cutouts.
Compared to the Air Jordan 5 Supreme, the Air Jordan Off White line was even more avant-garde and fashion-forward—blurring the line between performance footwear and modern art.
Final Thoughts
When deciding between the Air Jordan 5 Supreme and the Retro 5 OG, it all comes down to your priorities. If you’re a collector chasing hype, streetwear heritage, and brand crossovers, the Supreme collab is a must. But if you’re drawn to timeless design and basketball history, nothing beats the classic Retro 5 OG.
Either way, both versions are essential pillars in the legacy of the Jordan 5—one rooted in innovation, the other in influence.
