FIRST LOOK: adidas DON Issue 8

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Apr 20, 2026

The adidas DON Issue 8 is starting to take shape with a first look at Donovan Mitchell’s next signature shoe in a bright “Lucid Tangerine/Core Black/Pulse Mint” colorway. Eight models into the line, adidas appears to be sticking with the low-cut direction that has helped define Mitchell’s series while still giving the silhouette a fresh identity.

A new webbed overlay design runs across the upper, adding structure and a more aggressive look to the model. Black wraps the collar and lace area, while orange lands across the mesh tongue and much of the side panel. Mint hits at the toe, outsole, and heel help break up the warmer tones, giving the shoe a louder finish that fits well within the DON line’s usual approach to color.

Striped detailing at the heel adds even more contrast and helps push the speed-driven look of the silhouette. The overall shape stays close to what fans of the series would expect, but the updated build gives the DON Issue 8 a sharper visual presence than some of its earlier predecessors.

The adidas DON Issue 8 “Lucid Tangerine/Pulse Mint” is expected to release August 15, 2026 through select adidas Basketball retailers and adidas.com. Available in men’s and grade school sizing, the retail price tag is set at $120 and $90, respectively.

adidas DON Issue 8
Color: Lucid Tangerine/Core Black-Pulse Mint
Style Code: KI9287
Release Date: August 15, 2026
Price: $120

Photos: tutucartutu

Sneaker Politics x adidas LA Trainer Celebrates Festival Culture

By

Mario Briguglio

-

Apr 20, 2026

Sneaker Politics is putting its own spin on the adidas LA Trainer with a collaboration inspired by festival culture and the bold visual language that comes with it. The special pair taps into the energy of events like Woodstock and New Orleans Jazz Fest, using loud colors and graphic-heavy styling to give the retro runner a much more expressive look.

Purple suede overlays and soft pink underlays shape the upper, while bright pink Three Stripes add even more punch across the side panels. A blue tongue, yellow tongue tab, and cream midsole keep the color palette moving, and the adjustable cushioning plugs at the heel mix in blue, purple, and hot pink details that tie the whole theme together.

Festival references continue through the extra details, including co-branded VIP wristband-style laces that play into the event access theme. The overall design also pulls from the saturated look of vintage festival posters, which gives the shoe a nostalgic but still playful finish that stands out from a standard L.A. Trainer release.

The Sneaker Politics x adidas LA Trainer will release exclusively through Sneaker Politics on April 27th for $130. The EQL raffle is already open for anyone looking to secure a pair early.

Stay up to date with all upcoming sneaker releases from our Sneaker Release Dates page. Be sure to follow us on Twitter and Instagram.

Sneaker Politics x adidas LA Trainer
Style Code: KJ0450
Release Date: April 27, 2026
Price: $130

Nike Air Max 95 Big Bubble “Slate” Releases May 7th

By

Mario Briguglio

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Apr 20, 2026

UPDATE 4/20/26: Official images of the Nike Air Max 95 Big Bubble “Slate” have surfaced. A release date is set for May 7th for $190 USD.

Original Story 3/24/26:
Nike continues to keep the Air Max 95 in heavy rotation, and the latest drop taps directly into its roots. The upcoming Nike Air Max 95 Big Bubble “Slate” brings back a familiar colorway with a key upgrade, scheduled to release during May 2026.

This version revisits the classic Slate makeup, pairing a clean white base with signature blue gradient panels. The layered sidewalls shift from light tones near the midsole to deeper shades closer to the laces, staying true to the original design language. White mesh returns up top, while darker blue eyelets and tongue branding add contrast. A subtle teal hit on the heel Swoosh gives the pair a slight pop without overdoing it.

What really sets this release apart is the Big Bubble tooling. Nike reintroduces the larger Air unit to better match the silhouette’s original 1995 build, giving longtime fans a more authentic feel. It’s a detail that’s been driving recent Air Max 95 retros and continues to resonate with collectors.

After a strong run during its 30th anniversary, the Air Max 95 isn’t slowing down. This drop shows Nike is still leaning into heritage colorways while refining the details that matter most.

Nike Air Max 95 “Slate” 2026 Release Date

The Nike Air Max 95 Big Bubble “Slate” is expected to release May 7, 2026 through select Nike Sportswear retailers and Nike.com. The retail price tag is set at $190 USD.

Stay up to date with all upcoming sneaker releases from our Sneaker Release Dates page. Be sure to follow us on Twitter and Instagram.

Nike Air Max 95 Big Bubble “Slate”
Color: White/Lake Blue-French Blue-Emerald Green
Style Code: IH7855-100
Release Date: May 7, 2026
Price: $190

Deion Sanders’ Nike Air DT Max 96 Low Releases May 1st

By

Mario Briguglio

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Apr 20, 2026

UPDATE 4/20/26: The Nike Air DT Max 96 Low “Black/White/Metallic Gold” is set to release May 1st for $170 USD.

Original Story 4/1/26:
Deion Sanders’ signature line continues to build momentum, and now it’s stepping into new territory. The classic Nike Air DT Max 96 is being reworked into a low-top version, signaling a fresh direction for one of Nike’s most recognizable ’90s designs.

This new low-cut edition keeps the DNA of the original intact while adjusting it for a more seasonal feel. The bulky, aggressive shape remains, along with the signature side cut-outs that reveal a mesh base. However, the shortened collar gives the shoe a lighter, more casual edge that fits better with warmer weather styling. The approach mirrors how Nike has modernized other retro models, trimming them down without losing their identity.

To introduce the updated silhouette, Nike leans on a familiar color scheme. The white, black, and gold combination returns, staying true to the look that helped define the original high-top version. It’s a safe but effective choice that connects longtime fans to the new build.

The Nike Air DT Max 96 Low is expected to release May 1, 2026 through select retailers and Nike.com. It will be offered in adult and grade school sizing, with adult pairs retailing for $170.

Stay up to date with all upcoming sneaker releases from our Sneaker Release Dates page. Be sure to follow us on Twitter and Instagram.

Nike Air DT Max 96 Low
Color: Black/Metallic Gold-White
Style Code: IF5478-001
Release Date: May 1, 2026
Price: $170

Photos: DTLR

(GS sizing below)

Michael Jordan Wears Air Jordan 4 “Toro Bravo” At 23XI Racing Event

By

Mario Briguglio

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Apr 20, 2026

Michael Jordan pulled up to the AdventHealth 400 in a familiar retro, wearing the Air Jordan 4 “Toro Bravo” while taking in another strong weekend for 23XI Racing. His appearance also came with the kind of relaxed, oversized denim look that has become part of his off-court signature over the years.

Jordan was on hand as Tyler Reddick secured his fifth pole position of the season, keeping the momentum going for 23XI Racing. Alongside that latest trackside appearance, the red suede Air Jordan 4 “Toro Bravo” added another on-foot moment to a growing list of upcoming Jordan releases recently seen on Michael himself.

Bright red nubuck covers most of the upper, while black netting, grey eyelets, and white and black midsole detailing keep the classic color blocking intact. The pair remains one of the more recognizable non-OG Air Jordan 4 colorways, and seeing Michael wear it again only adds more attention ahead of its return.

The Air Jordan 4 “Toro Bravo” is set to release on May 30th in full family sizing. Michael Jordan’s latest appearance only gave the comeback even more energy as one of the most popular retro 4s gets ready to hit shelves again.

Stay up to date with all upcoming Air Jordan releases from our Air Jordan Release Dates page. Be sure to follow us on Twitter and Instagram.

Photos: NASCAR

Derek Fisher’s Nike Air Max Uptempo “Lakers” Returns April 24th

By

Mario Briguglio

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Apr 20, 2026

UPDATE 4/20/26: The Nike Air Max Uptempo “Lakers,” famously worn by Derek Fisher, is set to return on April 24 for $170.

Original Story 3/13/26:
The Nike Air Max Uptempo “Derek Fisher” is set to return in Spring 2026, bringing back a colorway closely tied to the Los Angeles Lakers’ dominant early-2000s run. Worn by Derek Fisher during the team’s three-peat championship era, the retro release revisits one of the more recognizable player-linked versions of the Uptempo line.

The upcoming Air Max Uptempo features a classic White, Varsity Purple, and Gold color scheme inspired by the Lakers’ signature team colors. A white leather upper serves as the base, while purple nubuck overlays add contrast and depth. Yellow piping outlines the large Swoosh branding, creating a bold accent that runs throughout the design. Additional gold and purple details appear on the lace loops, heel pull tab, and the edges of the outsole, reinforcing the shoe’s strong connection to the franchise’s iconic look.

From a performance standpoint, the silhouette remains faithful to its original basketball roots. The sneaker includes a full-length visible Air unit, delivering responsive cushioning and comfort similar to the on-court model from the early 2000s. On the heel, a gold crown logo highlights the Uptempo lineage and nods to the model’s heritage within Nike Basketball’s performance catalog.

During the Lakers’ championship run, Derek Fisher frequently wore this colorway in key moments, helping solidify its place in early-2000s basketball culture. Over time, the Uptempo moved beyond the hardwood, gaining traction among sneaker collectors and fans of retro basketball footwear.

Nike Air Max Uptempo Derek Fisher 2026 Release Date

The Nike Air Max Uptempo “Lakers” releases April 24, 2026 at select Nike Basketball retailers and Nike.com. Retail price is set at $170 USD.

Stay up to date with all upcoming sneaker releases from our Sneaker Release Dates page. Be sure to follow us on Twitter and Instagram.

Nike Air Max Uptempo “Lakers”
Color: White/Court Purple-University Gold
Style Code: 311090-103
Release Date: April 24, 2026
Price: $170

Derek Fisher wearing the Nike Air More Uptempo in a Lakers PE colorway during an NBA game. — Derek Fisher laced up a rare Lakers-themed Nike Air More Uptempo during his run with the Los Angeles Lakers.

Club 58 x Nike SB Air Max 95 Celebrates The 2026 World Cup

By

Mario Briguglio

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Apr 20, 2026

Nike SB is linking with Club 58 on a special Air Max 95 tied to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, bringing one of the year’s biggest themes onto one of Nike’s most important retro runners. The project also connects two familiar storylines for the brand, mixing the ongoing Air Max 95 push with a football-inspired release built around the tournament.

A soft off-white upper sets the base, while silver and black run through the layered design for a clean contrast. Orange lining adds a warmer hit inside the shoe, and the overall color makeup gives this pair a sunset-like look that separates it from more standard Air Max 95 releases. Gothic Club 58 branding on the heel ties the shoe back to Nike SB’s low-key in-house skate collective, continuing a story that has already shown up on past SB collaborations.

A second colorway in “Hyper Pink/Light Lemon Twist” is also expected to join the pack, giving the World Cup project a brighter counterpart. That added pair should make this release even more notable as Nike continues to fold skateboarding and global football energy into the same conversation.

The Club 58 x Nike SB Air Max 95 “World Cup” is currently expected to release in Fall 2026 through select skate shops and SNKRS. Retail pricing is set at $190 USD.

Stay up to date with all upcoming sneaker releases from our Sneaker Release Dates page. Be sure to follow us on Twitter and Instagram.

Club 58 x Nike SB Air Max 95 “World Cup”
Color: Sail/Black-Laser Orange
Style Code: IQ8395-100
Release Date: 2026
Price: $190

Photos: snkr_collector123

Air Jordan 9 Low “What The Kilroy” Releases Fall 2026

By

Mario Briguglio

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Apr 20, 2026

The Air Jordan 9 Low “What The Kilroy” is expected to bring the full Kilroy Pack back in a new way for Fall 2026. Instead of reissuing all six pairs from 2012, Jordan Brand appears to be combining that entire theme into one low-top release built with pieces from each fictional Michael Jordan alter ego.

Air Jordan 9 Kilroy Pack from 2012 — Air Jordan 9 “Kilroy Pack” (2012)

Early images show the pair pulling details from multiple Kilroy Pack colorways at once. One shoe mixes a black upper with blue mudguards, yellow lining, and white laces, while the other shifts to a red leather build with black overlays, light blue lining, and black laces. The mismatched design leans fully into the “What The” concept, but the storytelling is what gives this release more depth than a standard mash-up.

The original Air Jordan 9 “Kilroy Pack” was tied to a campaign built around Michael Jordan’s fictional identities during his retirement from basketball in the mid-1990s. Pairs like Johnny Kilroy, Slim Jenkins, Calvin Bailey, Motorboat Jones, Fontay Montana, and Bentley Ellis each represented a different character from that rollout. This new low-top appears to borrow from those chapters throughout the build, including heel embroidery that references #23 and #4 as another nod to the pack’s backstory.

The low-cut shape gives the concept a different feel, but the color blocking still makes the connection clear for anyone familiar with the original series. It is a louder, more playful take on the Air Jordan 9, and that should make it one of the more talked-about retros from Jordan Brand’s Fall 2026 lineup.

Air Jordan 9 Low “What The Kilroy” Release Date

The Air Jordan 9 Low “What The Kilroy” is currently expected to release in Fall 2026 for $180 through select Jordan Brand retailers and Nike.com. See the first set of images below.

Stay up to date with all upcoming Air Jordan releases from our Air Jordan Release Dates page. Be sure to follow us on Twitter and Instagram.

Air Jordan 9 Low “What The Kilroy”
Color: Black/University Blue-University Gold-Dark Cayenne-Challenge Red-Deep Royal Blue
Style Code: IV6476-010
Release Date: 2026
Pice: $180

Photos: @brandon1an / @zsneakerheadz / @snkr_collector123

Joe Freshgoods x New Balance 1890 EQL Raffle Now Open

By

Mario Briguglio

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Apr 20, 2026

UPDATE 4/20/26: EQL entries are now live for the Joe Freshgoods x New Balance 1890 in both the “Finger Waves” and “Naughty Things” colorways. Retail is set at $200, and the raffle stays open until Thursday, April 23rd at 11:00 AM ET. ENTER HERE.

Original Story 4/13/26:
Joe Freshgoods and New Balance are back with a 12th collaborative release, this time built around the New Balance 1890. After last year’s 2010 “In My Bag” project, Joe now shifts toward a newer retro-inspired model and gives it a concept rooted in the music video era of ’90s rap that shaped his childhood.

The Joe Freshgoods x New Balance 1890 pack pulls directly from the visual language of the late 1990s and early 2000s, especially the bold color, distortion, and larger-than-life styling made famous on MTV. Hype Williams’ futuristic direction plays a major role here, with Joe using that era’s unforgettable energy as the foundation for both pairs. The result is a project that feels tied to music, fashion, and memory all at once.

The two colorways, “Finger Waves” and “Naughty Things,” have not yet been officially tied to specific songs or videos. What has been made clear is that both pairs pull inspiration from the bold visuals and unmistakable attitude of rap videos, with references to artists like Busta Rhymes, Janet Jackson, Missy Elliott and Juvenile helping shape the overall direction of the project. Based on the images, one pair arrives in a fiery orange, yellow, and black mix, while the other leans into purple tones with glossy black overlays, giving each shoe its own distinct identity within the same nostalgic theme.

Special packaging helps push the concept even further. Both pairs arrive in steel diamond plate-inspired boxes with a circular cut-out lid, a detail that nods to the fisheye lens effect often tied to Hype Williams’ most iconic work. That connection also links this release to Joe’s earlier New Balance projects, including the “1998” Pack that referenced Belly.

The Joe Freshgoods x New Balance 1890 Pack EQL raffle opens April 20, 2026 in both colorways for $200 each, with entries open until April 23rd at 11:00 AM ET.

Stay up to date with all upcoming sneaker releases from our Sneaker Release Dates page. Be sure to follow us on Twitter and Instagram.

Joe Freshgoods x New Balance 1890 “Finger Waves”
Color: Orange
Style Code: U189065N
Release Date: April 23, 2026 (JFG)
Price: $200

Joe Freshgoods x New Balance 1890 “Naughty Things”
Color: Purple
Style Code: U18908JY
Release Date: April 23, 2026 (JFG)
Price: $200

Nike A’Two “WNBA 30th Anniversary” Releases May 8th

By

Mason Tiniuc

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Apr 20, 2026

Nike Basketball is expanding their “WNBA 30th Anniversary” collection with A’ja Wilson’s A’Two signature model. As one of the centerpieces of the anniversary collection, the release brings the WNBA’s milestone moment onto one of Nike’s newest performance silhouettes.

Soft black leather covers the toe and textured side panels, while white lands on the quilted toebox, lace panel, tongue, laces, and heel collar. That two-tone build gives the shoe a clean base, while the details around the upper help separate it from the standard A’Two looks seen so far.

Reflective heel panels bring in one of the pair’s standout features with a WNBA-inspired color split. Blue appears on the left shoe, red is placed on the right, and iridescent WNBA logos on the tongue continue the anniversary theme with a more celebratory finish. The result is a sharp colorway that connects A’ja Wilson’s latest signature shoe to one of the biggest milestones in league history.

The Nike A’Two “WNBA 30th Anniversary” releases on May 8, 2026 through select Nike Basketball retailers and Nike.com. Adult sizing will retail for $155, while grade school sizing is set at $122.

Stay up to date with all upcoming sneaker releases from our Sneaker Release Dates page. Be sure to follow us on Twitter and Instagram.

Nike A’Two “WNBA 30th Anniversary”
Color: Black/Multi-Color-Metallic Silver
Style Code: IH1137-001
Release Date: May 8, 2026
Price: $155

(GS sizing below)

Nike GT Future CHBL PE Arrives In A Pink Galaxy Colorway

By

Mario Briguglio

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Apr 20, 2026

The Nike GT Future CHBL PE brings one of the model’s most striking looks yet with a bright pink galaxy finish across its molded upper. Designed for the Chinese High School Basketball League, the pair continues to push the futuristic shape of the GT Future with a print that covers the shell in cloudy pink tones and scattered star-like speckles.

Black contrast on the tongue, lining, and outsole gives the sneaker a sharper balance while letting the galaxy graphic stay front and center. Metallic grey Swooshes land on the sides, and the tongue branding adds another unique detail with a pink Nike Swoosh on one shoe and a silver CHBL basketball logo on the other.

This GT Future first surfaced as part of a larger CHBL collection that also included a galaxy-themed GT Cut 4 and a new Sabrina 3 colorway. Among that group, this GT Future stands out through its Foamposite-inspired build and full graphic execution that works cleanly across the sculpted design.

Nike GT Future “CHBL” PE Release Date

The Nike GT Future CHBL PE is set to release on April 30, 2026 through Nike China and select overseas retailers. The pair will be available in unisex sizing for CN¥1,599, which is approximately $235 USD.

Stay up to date with all upcoming sneaker releases from our Sneaker Release Dates page. Be sure to follow us on Twitter and Instagram.

Nike GT Future “CHBL” PE
Color: Passionate Pink/Multi-Color-Metallic Dark Grey
Style Code: IH1109-600
Release Date: April 30, 2026
Price: $230

Reebok Brutus Low “Light Fog” Drops April 30th

By

Mason Tiniuc

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Apr 20, 2026

Reebok is giving the Brutus Low a softer look with this new “Light Fog” colorway, but the shoe still keeps its tough training DNA intact. The upper is covered in a pale Light Fog finish that reads clean and easy on foot, while Tranquil Teal adds a darker touch below. That balance helps the model feel more wearable without taking away from its bold, heavy build.

The upper mixes smooth synthetic panels with mesh around the tongue and collar, which creates just enough contrast to keep the design from feeling flat. White Vector logos stitched near the toe break up the muted palette in a simple way, while the tongue branding stays tonal and understated. Molded heel details also blend into the build nicely, giving the back half some shape without adding extra noise.

Darkening down to a deeper Tranquil Teal are the shoe’s midsole and outsole components, providing a bit more depth when viewing the profile from the side. Ribbed textures up front on the forefoot, perforated panels through the midfoot and sliced contours along the sole continue the shoe’s late-90s, early-2000s training-inspired aesthetic. On the ground, the tonal outsole ties it all together with a rugged pattern to fit the retro attitude.

What makes this pair work is how easy the color blocking feels. Reebok did not overplay the design or force in anything flashy. The shape already has enough presence, so the softer palette lets the Brutus Low stand out in a more natural way.

The Reebok Brutus Low “Light Fog” releases April 30, 2026 via Reebok.com and select retailers for $130.

Stay up to date with all upcoming sneaker releases from our Sneaker Release Dates page. Be sure to follow us on Twitter and Instagram.

Reebok Brutus Low
Color: Light Fog/Tranquil Teal
Style Code: 100245142
Release Date: April 30, 2026
Price: $130

New Balance 1890 “Dark Silver Metallic” Releases April 24th

By

Mason Tiniuc

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Apr 20, 2026

New Balance has another ABZORB 1890 on deck, and this “Dark Silver Metallic” pair gets there without trying too hard. The color mix stays neutral, the shape does the work, and the whole thing feels like a runner pulled from another era and cleaned up for now.

White mesh sets the tone across the upper and gives the shoe that light, open look this silhouette needs. Metallic silver overlays cut through the side panels in curved, teardrop-like lines that bring out the model’s tech-heavy design. A softer silver shade around the collar keeps the upper from blending together too much and gives the shoe a little more dimension.

Dark grey suede at the heel changes the pace just enough and adds a heavier finish to the back end. Salmon pink ABZORB pods under the midsole break up all the silver and white in the right way, while blue New Balance hits on the tongue and heel sneak in a little extra life. Nothing feels forced, which is probably why the colorway works.

The New Balance ABZORB 1890 “Dark Silver Metallic” is set to release on April 24, 2026 through NewBalance.com and select retailers for $180.

With its sharp overlays, soft contrast, and easy Y2K runner feel, this is the kind of pair that does more the longer you sit with it.

Stay up to date with all upcoming sneaker releases from our Sneaker Release Dates page. Be sure to follow us on Twitter and Instagram.

New Balance 1890
Color: Dark Silver Metallic/Granite
Style Code: U18907NG
Release Date: April 24, 2026
Price: $180

New Balance 2010 “Metallic Silver” Releases May 8th

By

Mason Tiniuc

-

Apr 20, 2026

Some sneakers try too hard to sell the retro-runner thing, but this New Balance 2010 does not have that problem. The silver overlay work on the toe and side panels gives it that familiar early-2000s performance feel right away, and the rest of the upper keeps it grounded with a full spread of greys. Lighter mesh handles the base, while darker shades land on the oversized “N” logo and the surrounding support pieces.

What helps this pair is that nothing feels random. The mix of tones is simple, but it still gives the shoe enough shape and separation to keep your eye moving. The midsole does the most work here, starting off white near the front before shifting into grey at the heel. Underneath, the black outsole breaks up all the soft tones, while the tongue branding, sockliner, and ABZORB heel pods stay in that same grey range.

This one feels like a laid back shoe. It looks like something you slip on without a second thought but it has enough detail to be interesting. The metallic silver accents add a little edge and the neutral tone keeps it totally wearable.

The New Balance 2010 “Metallic Silver” releases May 8, 2026 for $160 via NewBalance.com and select retailers.

Stay up to date with all upcoming sneaker releases from our Sneaker Release Dates page. Be sure to follow us on Twitter and Instagram.

New Balance 2010
Color: Metallic Silver/Grey
Style Code: U2010753
Release Date: May 8, 2026
Price: $160

Air Jordan 6 “Carmine” Returns March 2027

By

Mario Briguglio

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Apr 19, 2026

Jordan Brand is bringing back one of its most iconic original colorways. The Air Jordan 6 “Carmine” is expected to return in Spring 2027, adding another major retro to an already strong lineup while bringing back a pair that always carries weight with longtime fans.

First released in 1991, the Air Jordan 6 “Carmine” remains one of the most recognizable shoes in the model’s history. Its White, Carmine Red, and Black color blocking helped set it apart early, while its connection to Jordan’s first championship season added even more legacy. The pair later returned in the 2008 Countdown Pack, again in 2014, and most recently in 2021.

For 2027, early expectations point to a familiar setup that stays close to the original. That means a White leather base, Carmine nubuck overlays, Black accents on the tongue and midsole, and Nike Air branding on the heel. Other classic details should also return, including the lace lock, visible Air unit, and translucent outsole.

Because the 2021 pair dealt with some quality concerns, there will be extra attention on how this version is executed. Even so, demand should be strong from the start. The “Carmine” Jordan 6 has always been one of those releases that speaks for itself.

Air Jordan 6 “Carmine” 2027 Release Date

The Air Jordan 6 “Carmine” is currently scheduled to return on March 13, 2027 through Jordan Brand retailers and Nike.com. Additional release details are expected to surface in the months ahead.

Stay up to date with all upcoming Air Jordan releases from our Air Jordan Release Dates page. Be sure to follow us on Twitter and Instagram.

Air Jordan 6 “Carmine”
Color: White/Carmine-Black
Style Code: CT8529-109
Release Date: March 13, 2027
Price: $215

Source: Sneaker Files / zsneakerheadz

(2021 release below)

Air Jordan 5 “Black/University Blue” Returns June 2026

By

Mario Briguglio

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Apr 19, 2026

UPDATE 4/19/26: New images of the Air Jordan 5 “Black/University Blue” have surfaced, giving us a better look at the 2026 retro. The updated shots highlight the black nubuck upper, University Blue accents, reflective tongue, contrast stitching, and icy outsole. The pair is currently expected to release on June 20, 2026 for $220.

Original Story 10/7/25:
The Air Jordan 5 “Black/University Blue” was originally released in 2006 as part of the original Lifestyle (LS) series and is set to officially return in Summer 2026 celebrating its 20th Anniversary. This Air Jordan 5 has become one of the most sought after colorways from the series for its clean, collegiate-inspired color palette and quality materials.

Featuring nearly the exact same design as the OG, this retro is composed of Black nubuck uppers accented by bold splashes of University Blue and White paint. Signature 3M reflective tongues, translucent mesh side panels and contrast stitching that draw attention to the Air Jordan 5s built up details. The University Blue lining and embroidered heel will also get a pop of “UNC” style color Jordan fans are used to.

While “Black/University Blue” is loved in its own right, in the mid-2000s, it released during the LS era in which Jordan Brand began the strategy of launching limited sneakers with corresponding apparel and exclusive pieces. This association with clothing is part of what has made the colorway so legendary over the years, especially amongst collectors who missed the opportunity to own a pair when it was originally available for such a limited time. The 2026 retro continues the sneaker company’s recent pattern of dusting off classic mid-2000s releases, including but not limited to “Burgundy” and “Green Bean”.

Details like the icy translucent outsole, lace locks and OG-style packaging complete this trip down memory lane that honors its 2006 roots. It’s a winning formula: heritage, quality materials, and a color balance that is both timeless and fresh.