The Air Jordan 4 stands as one of the most iconic silhouettes in sneaker history, celebrated for its groundbreaking design and unforgettable moments on and off the court. With countless legendary releases over the years, narrowing down the best is no easy feat. It’s important to highlight that this list focuses solely on sneakers that have been officially released. This means player exclusives or unreleased samples are not included, so keep that in mind.
Here are the Top 5 Air Jordan 4s of All-Time, based on their impact, design, and cultural relevance:
1. Air Jordan 4 “Bred”
Release Date: 1989 (Retro versions in 1999, 2008, 2012, 2019, 2024)
Why It’s Iconic: The ‘Bred’ AJ4 is synonymous with Michael Jordan’s historic “The Shot” during the 1989 NBA Playoffs. Featuring a sleek black nubuck upper with Cement Grey and Fire Red accents, this colorway is a cornerstone of sneaker history and one of the most beloved Jordans ever made.
2. Air Jordan 4 “White Cement”
Release Date: 1989 (Retro versions in 1999, 2012, 2016, 2025)
Why It’s Iconic: Renowned for its clean white upper paired with speckled Cement Grey details, the ‘White Cement’ AJ4 gained even more fame when it appeared in Spike Lee’s Do the Right Thing. A timeless classic, it’s a favorite for both OG sneakerheads and new collectors alike.
3. Air Jordan 4 “Fire Red”
Release Date: 1989 (Retro versions in 2006, 2012, 2020)
Why It’s Iconic: The vibrant mix of white, black, and red cemented this colorway as a standout. The 2020 retro, with its original “Nike Air” branding, reignited its legacy and proved that this OG design remains a fan favorite decades later.
4. Air Jordan 4 “Undefeated”
Release Date: 2005 (Limited Release) (Retro 2025)
Why It’s Iconic: The collaboration with Undefeated was groundbreaking, dressing the AJ4 in a military-inspired olive green with orange and black accents. With only 72 pairs released, its exclusivity and unique design make it one of the most sought-after Jordans of all time.
5. Air Jordan 4 “KAWS”
Release Date: 2017
Why It’s Iconic: This collaboration with artist KAWS transformed the AJ4 into a work of art, featuring a premium grey suede upper, glow-in-the-dark soles, and signature KAWS hand motifs. It’s widely regarded as a masterpiece of sneaker design.
Honorable Mentions:
Air Jordan 4 “Doernbecher”
A bold and meaningful release designed by patients of the Doernbecher Children’s Hospital.
Air Jordan 4 “Union”
A fresh reinterpretation by Union LA, blending retro vibes with modern aesthetics.
Air Jordan 4 “Off-White”
Virgil Abloh’s deconstructed, creamy-toned take on the AJ4 captivated sneakerheads worldwide.
Air Jordan 4 “Laser”
Celebrating the AJ4’s 30th anniversary, this intricate laser-etched design stood out for its craftsmanship.
These Air Jordan 4s are a testament to the silhouette’s enduring legacy, blending iconic designs with cultural significance. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or a new enthusiast, these pairs define what makes the AJ4 one of the most celebrated sneakers ever created.