The Air Jordan 10 is often overlooked in the Jordan lineup, but it holds historical significance as the sneaker that marked Michael Jordan’s first retirement from basketball. Designed by Tinker Hatfield, the AJ10 featured a clean, simple design with a unique outsole that listed MJ’s career achievements up to that point. For this list, we’re only including pairs that were officially released to the public—so don’t lose your mind over your favorite player exclusives or samples not making the cut!
Here are the Top 5 Best Air Jordan 10s of All-Time, ranked based on their cultural impact, historical significance, and fan-favorite appeal.
1. Air Jordan 10 ‘Shadow’
Release Date: 1994 (Retro versions in 2008, 2018, 2025)
Why It’s Iconic: The ‘Shadow’ AJ10 brings a stealthy, understated vibe to the model, featuring a black and dark grey upper that gives it a sleek, versatile look. Unlike many other Air Jordans that leaned into vibrant color schemes, this muted design set it apart and has remained a favorite for those who appreciate a more subtle, everyday sneaker.
2. Air Jordan 10 ‘Chicago’
Release Date: 1995 (Retro versions in 2012, 2015)
Why It’s Iconic: The ‘Chicago’ AJ10 is one of the most historically significant releases in Jordan Brand history. As part of the City Pack, this white, black, and red sneaker is best remembered as the pair MJ wore during his first comeback in 1995. Its place in basketball history makes it an absolute essential for any serious Jordan collector.
3. Air Jordan 10 ‘Steel’
Release Date: 1994 (Retro versions in 2005, 2013, 2025)
Why It’s Iconic: As one of the original AJ10 colorways, the ‘Steel’ Jordan 10 introduced the world to the silhouette with a clean white leather upper, black detailing, and steel grey accents. The 1994 version featured a distinctive toe cap that was later removed in retros, making the original a true collector’s item.
4. Air Jordan 10 ‘Seattle’
Release Date: 1995 (Retro version in 2019)
Why It’s Iconic: Part of the City Pack, the ‘Seattle’ AJ10 represented the SuperSonics with a white leather upper, black overlays, and green accents. While it was overshadowed by other pairs in the pack upon its original release, the long-awaited 2019 retro reignited interest in this unique colorway.
5. Air Jordan 10 ‘Sacramento’
Release Date: 1995
Why It’s Iconic: Another City Pack release, the ‘Sacramento’ AJ10 featured a black leather upper with deep purple accents to match the Kings’ team colors. While it never received an official retro release, its rarity and connection to the original City Pack have made it a grail for many Jordan collectors.
Air Jordan 10 ‘Double Nickel’
Paying tribute to MJ’s 55-point game against the Knicks after his return, this pair featured the No. 45 stitched on the side.
Air Jordan 10 ‘City Pack New York’
The Big Apple shines on the Air Jordan 10 with classic orange and royal accents. Inspired by the original Chicago colorway, it gets a fresh update with team hues on the collar and outsole.
Air Jordan 10 ‘Red Steel’
A rare twist on the OG ‘Steel’ colorway, replacing steel grey with bold red accents.
Air Jordan 10 ‘CDP’ (Countdown Pack)
Released alongside the Air Jordan 13 in 2008, this black and white edition brought the AJ10 back into the spotlight.
The Air Jordan 10 is a sleeper hit in the Jordan lineup, with a clean, simple design that allows its history and storytelling to shine. Whether it’s the City Pack, classic retros, or standout moments like MJ’s comeback, these pairs showcase why the AJ10 deserves more recognition in sneaker culture.
