What Sneakers Are Releasing in 2026?
A Deeper, Model-by-Model Look at Jordan Brand’s Most Important Year in a While
If 2026 had a theme, it would be intentional dominance. Jordan Brand isn’t flooding the market. They’re curating it. The 2026 release slate reads like a carefully sequenced archive rollout—OG moments, proven silhouettes, and colorways that don’t need explanation. This is the kind of year collectors remember later and say, “That was the one I should’ve paid attention to.” Let’s go deeper into what sneakers are expected to release in 2026, beyond just the headlines. Air Jordan 4: The Backbone of 2026. The Air Jordan 4 is arguably the most important Jordan silhouette right now—and Jordan Brand knows it.
Most anticipated:
Air Jordan 4 “Bred” (Holiday 2026)
Air Jordan 11 ‘ Space Jam” (Holiday 2026)
Air Jordan 6 ‘ Reverse Infared”
Air Jordan 5 ‘ Wolf grey”
Air Jordan 4 ‘ Nigel Sylvester”
Air Jordan 4 ‘ Toro”
Air Jordan 1 Virgil Abloh “Off-white”
Why the AJ4 matters in 2026:
Perfect balance of structure, comfort, and presence
Strong appeal across age groups
Consistently strong long-term resale performance
The AJ4 isn’t trendy—it’s timeless, and 2026 positions it as a core pillar.
JORDAN BRAND — 2026 RELEASES
🗓 Air Jordan 4 “Flight Club”
Release: January 17, 2026
Retail: ~$215
Why it matters:
A concept-driven AJ4 tied to the original Jordan Flight Club era. Not an OG colorway, but deeply rooted in Jordan Brand history and storytelling. Early-year AJ4s usually perform well long term.
🗓 Air Jordan 9 “Flint Grey”
Release: January 24, 2026
Retail: ~$210
Why it matters:
A clean, wearable AJ9 with OG inspiration. AJ9s don’t spike immediately but are respected by seasoned collectors and age quietly well.
🗓 Air Jordan 6 “Reverse Infrared”
Release: February 14, 2026
Retail: ~$215
Why it matters:
A flipped take on one of the most iconic AJ6 colorways ever. Strong nostalgia play with sample-history roots—high interest from OG fans.
🗓 Air Jordan 5 “Wolf Grey”
Release: February 28, 2026
Retail: ~$215
Why it matters:
Neutral, rotation-friendly AJ5 returning after a long absence. These tend to sell steadily rather than explosively—classic long-hold behavior.
🗓 Air Jordan 6 “Cap & Gown”
Release: April 2, 2026
Retail: ~$225
Why it matters:
Premium execution tied to milestone moments (graduation, achievements). Usually limited, usually underrated early, usually respected later.
🗓 Air Jordan 12 “Bloodline”
Release: May 23 or June 20, 2026 (TBD)
Retail: ~$220
Why it matters:
AJ12s thrive on material quality and subtle storytelling. “Bloodline” brings a refined black/red look that fits the silhouette perfectly.
🎄 Air Jordan 4 “Bred” (OG)
Release: Holiday 2026
Retail: ~$220
Why it matters:
One of the most important Jordan releases of the decade. OG colorway tied to 1989 playoff history. This is a cornerstone sneaker, not a trend piece.
🎄 Air Jordan 11 “Space Jam” (30th Anniversary)
Release: Holiday 2026
Retail: ~$230
Why it matters:
A generational release. Cultural crossover (basketball + film) + holiday timing + AJ11 legacy = guaranteed demand for years.
👀 Rumored / Expected Jordan Drops (Late 2026)
(Highly credible but not fully confirmed)
Air Jordan 4 “Pink Thunder” – Holiday 2026
Awake NY x Air Jordan 6 (2 colorways) – Fall 2026
Select Air Jordan 1 High OG releases (reduced quantity, OG focus)
The 2026 sneaker calendar isn’t about chasing every drop—it’s about recognizing which releases will matter years from now. Jordan Brand and Nike are leaning into legacy, restraint, and cultural relevance, creating a year that rewards patience, taste, and intention. Some pairs will feel easy on release day. Others won’t spark instant chaos. That’s the signal—not the warning. History has shown that the sneakers that age best are often the ones overlooked in the moment. Approach 2026 with discipline, buy what aligns with heritage and wearability, and let time do the rest. The real value of this year’s releases won’t be decided on drop day—it’ll be decided long after the noise fades.