Release Guide: Air Jordan 5 Retro 'UNC'
Everything you need to know about the AJ5 Retro 'UNC.' From the release date to the colorway's history.
The ‘UNC’ colorway is a hallmark of the Air Jordan line, featured on a range of silhouettes including the 1, 3, and 4. In 2023, the tone graces the Air Jordan 5 for the first time ever in a retro release.
An acronym for the University of Carolina at Chapel Hill and sometimes referred to as ‘Carolina Blue/White,’ the baby blue palette is an homage to the uniform and colors of Michael Jordan’s alma mater. The basketball icon played for the UNC Tar Heels between 1981 and 1984, winning a national championship during his freshman campaign. The color scheme has followed Jordan throughout his career, providing a cool contrast to the signature red.
The Air Jordan 5 Retro ‘UNC,’ set to release in March 2023, pairs OG design cues with UNC motifs. Details include collegiate-inspired stamps at each heel, and “Heart” and “Soul” text incorporated behind the tongues. The shoes are packaged in a commemorative box.
AJ5 Silhouette History
The Air Jordan 5 was designed by Tinker Hatfield and introduced in 1990. Inspired by the nose art of Mustang fighter jets from World War II, Hatfield wanted the silhouette’s aesthetic to reflect Michael Jordan’s “biting” style of play. As well as the signature serrated midsole pattern, the AJ5 was the first Air Jordan to feature a translucent sole. It was first released as a retro in 2000. Despite its heritage as a professional basketball shoe, the AJ5 is now widely considered a fashion sneaker.
The ‘UNC’ colorway was initially a Player Exclusive for athletes at the University of Carolina. Aware of public demand, Nike eventually lined up an Air Jordan 1 general release of the colorway. Although His Airness never wore the ‘UNC’ on the court, it remains one of the most rarefied Air Jordans ever, perhaps only eclipsed by colorways such as ‘Chicago’ and ‘Bred.’
In 2015, Nike released a retro version of the ‘UNC’ that maintained many of the same specs as the original. Designer Virgil Abloh also leaned on the colorway, releasing an Off-White x Air Jordan 1 ‘UNC’ just a year after ‘The Ten.’
Air Jordan 5 Retro 'UNC' Product Features
‘UNC’ first appeared on the Air Jordan 1 in 1985. Now, the iconic colorway comes to the AJ5 for the first time. The sneaker features reflective silver at the tongue, finished with an icy blue outsole inspired by the University of North Carolina. Traditional branding on the heel is replaced with a modern Team Jumpman patch.
Midsole Cushioning
The AJ5’s midsole is distinguished by a shark-tooth accent. The ‘UNC’ colorway features a distinctive speckled treatment in white and blue. Like previous Jordans, the midsole houses heel and forefoot Air.
Upper Material
University Blue floods the upper, from the nubuck and tonal TPU eyelets to the ventilated quarter-panel netting and lace lock.
Detailing
A black Jumpman logo is embroidered on the reflective silver tongue for added visibility in low-light conditions, matching the black midsole.
Air Jordan 5 Retro 'UNC' FAQs
When does the Air Jordan 5 Retro 'UNC' release?
The Air Jordan 5 ‘UNC’ is set to release on March 4, 2023 ahead of March Madness.
How much will the Air Jordan 5 Retro 'UNC' cost?
The retail price of the men’s Air Jordan 5 Retro ‘UNC’ is $225.
What’s the SKU of Air Jordan 5 Retro 'UNC?'
The SKU of the Air Jordan 5 Retro ‘UNC’ 2023 on GOAT is DV1310-401.
Who designed the Air Jordan 5 Retro 'UNC'?
The Air Jordan 5 was initially designed by Tinker Hatfield. The AJ5 Retro ‘UNC’ retains many of Hatfield’s unique design details.
What’s the nickname for Air Jordan 5 Retro 'UNC?'
The Air Jordan 5 Retro ‘UNC’ is often referred to simply as the "UNCs."
Where can I buy the Air Jordan 5 Retro 'UNC?'
You can buy the Air Jordan 5 Retro ‘UNC’ on GOAT.
What are shoes similar to the Air Jordan 5 Retro 'UNC'?
The white and blue shades of the Air Jordan 5 Retro ‘UNC’ are a familiar Air Jordan color story. Alternative ‘UNC’-inspired colorways include ‘Powder Blue,’ ‘University Blue’ and ‘Columbia.’ Explore colorways similar to ‘UNC’ here.
Upcoming and recent 'UNC' releases include:
What sizes does the Air Jordan 5 Retro 'UNC' come in?
The Air Jordan 5 Retro ‘UNC’ comes in a full family run of sizes for men, women and kids.