13 Rare Air Jordans Every Collector Dreams of Owning
Air Jordans have always been a game-changer in the world of sneakers. Released in 1985, they quickly became a cultural phenomenon. With each new release, the hype surrounding the brand has only grown. The combination of innovative designs and Michael Jordan’s success on the court made these shoes legendary.
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2020 Dior x Air Jordan 1
The Dior x Air Jordan 1 was released in 2020 through a limited collaboration between the luxury fashion house Dior and Nike’s Jordan Brand. This exclusive sneaker was made in only 1,000 pairs, making it one of the rarest Jordans in history. The Dior 1 features a unique gray calfskin leather upper and Dior’s signature logo subtly etched onto the Swoosh. The sneaker blends high-end fashion with athletic wear, offering collectors both luxury and performance. The current market value for a pair of these Jordans is around $15,000, depending on the condition and size.
The high resale value is attributed to its scarcity and the involvement of Dior, which instantly elevated its status in the sneaker world. Additionally, the craftsmanship and premium materials used in this design make it a standout piece. The Dior x Air Jordan 1 symbolizes the intersection of sports culture and luxury fashion. Many sneakerheads view it as a piece of art rather than just footwear. Its exclusivity and price tag ensure its place as one of the most coveted Jordans among collectors.
2017 Air Jordan 11 RE2PECT
Released in 2017, the Air Jordan 11 RE2PECT was designed to honor baseball legend Derek Jeter. This limited-edition sneaker was only given to five individuals, making it an incredibly rare item. The design of the RE2PECT features a sleek navy blue upper, white midsole, and Jeter’s iconic 2 number on the heel. The model represents not only Jeter’s legacy but also the perfect fusion of sports and sneaker culture. Currently, these pairs are valued at up to $40,000 in the resale market, owing to their extreme rarity.
The Air Jordan 11 RE2PECT stands out because of its personal connection to Jeter and the limited nature of its release. It was never sold to the public, making it even more desirable to collectors. The blue and white color scheme, reminiscent of the New York Yankees, gives the shoe a unique yet simple look. As a tribute to Jeter’s retirement, this model holds significant sentimental value for both sneakerheads and baseball fans. The rarity and emotional significance of the sneaker ensure its place as one of the most exclusive Jordans.
2011 Air Jordan 5 Tokyo23
The Air Jordan 5 Tokyo23 was released in 2011 to commemorate the opening of the Jordan Tokyo 23 store in Japan. Only 23 pairs were made, which makes this sneaker extremely rare and highly sought after. The design features a bold yellow suede upper with black and gray accents, giving it a striking look. This Air Jordan 5 design is a tribute to both the Jordan Brand’s international reach and the Japanese sneaker culture. Pairs of this model have been seen reselling for up to $5,000, depending on condition.
The Tokyo23’s rarity and vibrant design make it a standout among other Air Jordan models. It is often seen as a must-have for serious collectors due to its connection to Jordan’s global influence. With only 23 pairs available, the sneaker holds a special place in Jordan Brand history. The combination of its bright colorway and limited availability ensures its lasting appeal. For sneakerheads, owning a pair of these is a rare opportunity that carries significant value.
2023 Air Jordan 5 Black Metallic (Bel-Air PE)
The Air Jordan 5 Black Metallic (Bel-Air PE) was released in 2023 as a player-exclusive model to celebrate the second season of the Bel-Air TV series. Only three pairs were made, with a laceless design and a sleek black metallic colorway. This exclusive release was only available to a few lucky individuals through a special raffle. The lack of retail availability adds to its rarity, making it one of the most valuable Jordan sneakers today. Pairs of this model are currently estimated to be worth around $200,000.
The design of the Air Jordan 5 Black Metallic (Bel-Air PE) ties into the pop culture influence of the Bel-Air series. The sleek metallic finish and bold black upper make the sneaker a standout in any collection. Its laceless style also gives it a unique, futuristic feel. Due to its extremely limited release and tie-ins with pop culture, the sneaker has become a coveted item among collectors. The current market value reflects just how exclusive and valuable this PE model has become.
2005 Undefeated x Air Jordan 4
The Undefeated x Air Jordan 4 was released in 2005 as a collaboration between Undefeated and Nike’s Jordan Brand. Only 72 pairs were made, making it one of the rarest Air Jordans ever produced. The sneaker features an olive green suede upper, with black and white accents, which gives it a military-inspired look. This collaboration was a game-changer for the sneaker world, bringing together streetwear culture and Jordan Brand’s iconic designs. The current resale value for a pair of these sneakers can reach up to $50,000.
The Undefeated x Air Jordan 4’s rarity and bold design make it a prized piece in the sneaker community. The limited number of pairs released, combined with the military-inspired color scheme, sets this model apart from other Air Jordans. The collaboration between Undefeated and Jordan Brand added a unique flavor to the design, making it a must-have for collectors. Over the years, its market value has increased significantly, making it one of the most sought-after Jordans. This model is truly a gem for sneakerheads who value exclusivity and style.
2013 Air Jordan Legends Of The Summer Pack
The 2013 Air Jordan Legends Of The Summer Pack was a special release that coincided with Justin Timberlake’s and Jay-Z’s Legends of the Summer tour. This pack included two models, the Air Jordan 3 and Air Jordan 1, and featured a red and white color scheme with glitter accents. The pack was released as a limited edition, and its association with the high-profile tour added to its appeal. Due to the limited quantity, the resale value has shot up over time, with some pairs selling for more than $15,000.
The Legends of the Summer Pack is rare because it was linked to a highly anticipated music tour, and the sneakers themselves were produced in limited quantities. The red and white colorway, along with the glitter detailing, gives the sneakers a striking appearance. The combination of Justin Timberlake’s influence and Jordan Brand’s iconic status made this collaboration a standout. This pack has since become a must-have for collectors, especially those with an interest in both music and sneaker culture. The increased resale price is a testament to its lasting significance.
2016 Air Jordan Kobe Retirement Pack
The 2016 Air Jordan Kobe Retirement Pack was created to honor basketball legend Kobe Bryant’s retirement. This set included a complete collection of Air Jordan 1 through 30 models, each in a size 14. Only one set was made, making it a unique collector’s item. The design of the pack was understated yet elegant, with all-white leather and gold accents to symbolize Kobe’s illustrious career. The estimated value of the entire pack is around $200,000.
This exclusive pack stands out for its size and for being a one-of-a-kind item, making it more than just a sneaker release. The gold detailing symbolizes Kobe’s legendary status, adding an extra layer of prestige. The retirement pack was not available to the general public, making it an even more coveted collector’s piece. Its value continues to grow as fans and collectors alike seek this unique tribute to a basketball icon. The pack’s rarity and sentimental value contribute to its astronomical price.
2011 Dave White x Air Jordan 1 Wings For The Future (Gold)
The Dave White x Air Jordan 1 Wings For The Future (Gold) was released in 2011, with only 23 pairs made. This sneaker features a gold-painted toe box and a unique red, white, and blue colorway, representing the American flag. It was created as part of a charity auction to benefit the WINGS for the Future program, which helps underprivileged youth. The limited edition and charitable cause have contributed to its rarity, with pairs selling for over $18,000.
The gold detailing on the toe box and the patriotic color scheme make this model visually distinctive. The charitable cause behind the release adds sentimental value to the sneaker, making it more than just a fashion item. Due to its limited production, this Air Jordan 1 has become a holy grail for sneaker collectors. Its market value continues to rise, as it is a rare and meaningful piece. The Wings For The Future sneaker’s exclusivity and charity involvement make it one of the most desirable Jordans in the collection world.
2016 Air Jordan 10 Grimm Gala
The 2016 Air Jordan 10 Grimm Gala was a special release for the Jordan Brand’s annual gala event. Only 10 pairs were made, each featuring a sleek black and red colorway with luxurious detailing. The design is inspired by the glamour and style of the event, making it a unique piece in the Air Jordan collection. As a result of its extreme rarity, the resale value for this sneaker has soared, with pairs fetching as much as $40,000.
This sneaker is a standout due to its exclusive nature, with only 10 pairs available for the public. The combination of a minimalistic design and high-end materials made the Air Jordan 10 Grimm Gala highly desirable. Its market value reflects the rarity and the event’s significance, as it was designed exclusively for those attending the gala. As a limited edition release, this model remains a sought-after item in the sneaker community. Its high resale price confirms its place as one of the rarest and most expensive Jordans.
2015 Eminem x Carhartt x Air Jordan 4
The Eminem x Carhartt x Air Jordan 4 was released in 2015 as a collaboration between rapper Eminem, Carhartt, and Jordan Brand. With only 10 pairs produced, this sneaker is incredibly rare and highly prized by collectors. The design features black denim with reflective silver accents, blending the rugged appeal of Carhartt with Jordan’s iconic silhouette. The scarcity of this model, combined with its unique design, has driven the resale price up to $30,000.
The collaboration between Eminem, Carhartt, and Jordan Brand makes this Air Jordan 4 a special release. The denim material and silver accents create a visually appealing and durable sneaker. Only 10 pairs were made, which has led to its extreme rarity and high demand. Its design and limited quantity have made it one of the most valuable Jordans in existence. Collectors view it as a must-have due to its unique nature and the high-profile collaboration behind it.
2020 Air Jordan 4 Manila
The Air Jordan 4 Manila was released in 2020 to celebrate the opening of the Jordan Manila store in the Philippines. With only 23 pairs produced, this sneaker has become a highly sought-after model for collectors. The design features a white leather upper with gold accents, inspired by the Manila cityscape. Its limited production and association with the Jordan Manila store make it one of the rarest Jordans in the market. Resale prices can go as high as $10,000 for this exclusive model.
This Air Jordan 4 is highly valued for its connection to the Philippines, where Jordan Brand has a strong following. The use of gold accents and white leather gives the sneaker an elegant and eye-catching appearance. Due to the limited availability, it is considered a rare treasure in the sneaker community. The Manila sneaker has gained popularity over time, with collectors eager to add it to their collection. Its market value continues to grow due to its rarity and cultural significance.
2013 XX8 Days of Flight
The XX8 Days of Flight was released in 2013 to celebrate the 28th anniversary of the Air Jordan line. The sneaker features a unique camouflage pattern with vibrant colors, making it stand out among other Jordans. This limited release sneaker is a favorite for collectors due to its distinct design and tie to the Air Jordan legacy. Though not as rare as some other models, the XX8 Days of Flight still holds a high resale value, with prices reaching up to $4,000 for some pairs.
The colorful camouflage pattern and cutting-edge design give the XX8 Days of Flight a bold look. It represents a modern take on the classic Air Jordan silhouette, blending futuristic elements with traditional design. Despite being less exclusive, the sneaker’s limited release and unique style have made it a favorite among collectors. As a result, its market value has remained strong over the years. The XX8 Days of Flight is a great example of how Air Jordans continue to innovate while honoring the brand’s rich history.
2018 Air Jordan 4 Wahlburgers
The Air Jordan 4 Wahlburgers was released in 2018 as a collaboration with the Wahlberg family. This limited edition sneaker features a green suede upper with red and white accents, reflecting the colors of the Wahlburgers brand. The sneaker was only available to close friends and family of the Wahlberg family, making it a very rare find. Resale prices for this model can go as high as $5,000 due to its scarcity and exclusive nature.
The unique colorway and connection to the Wahlburgers brand make this Air Jordan 4 stand out. Its rarity and tie-in with the popular restaurant chain have made it a niche item for sneaker collectors. The green suede and bold design set this model apart from other Air Jordans, making it a highly desirable piece. With only a handful of pairs in existence, it remains a highly valuable sneaker in the resale market. Its connection to pop culture adds to its appeal among sneaker enthusiasts.
2021 Air Jordan 1 What The Doernbecher
The Air Jordan 1 What The Doernbecher was released in 2021 as part of the Doernbecher Freestyle program, which benefits the Doernbecher Children’s Hospital. This model features a combination of designs from various past Doernbecher releases, each representing a unique story from the young patients involved. The sneaker’s colorful and creative design makes it a standout among other Air Jordans. Due to its charity ties and unique design, the resale value for a pair has climbed to over $4,000.
Each design element of the What The Doernbecher reflects the creativity and personality of the patients who contributed. The sneaker’s colorful and eclectic style represents a variety of unique stories, making each pair special. All proceeds from the sales go toward supporting the hospital’s programs, adding emotional value to the sneaker. Its design and charitable cause make it a desirable item for sneakerheads who appreciate both style and philanthropy. The resale market for this model continues to thrive, with collectors seeking it as a piece of sneaker history.
The world of rare Air Jordans is as exciting as it is exclusive, with each release telling its own story. These sneakers are not just about style but about preserving the culture and influence of the Jordan Brand. As the demand for limited-edition pairs increases, so does their value in the market. These iconic designs will continue to define sneaker culture for years to come.
This article originally appeared on Avocadu.