The Jordan Releases That Defined 2025

As we approach the final countdown of 2025, it’s time to look back at what can only be described as a vintage year for Jordan Brand. From the return of "impossible" grails to reimagined icons that sparked heated debates in the comments, the past twelve months have kept the culture on its toes. At Stadium Goods, we saw these pairs fly off the shelves and dominate the streets. Before we step into 2026, let’s take one last look at the sneakers that defined the year.

Air Jordan 4 "Black Cat 2025" — FV5029 010

The "Black Cat" returned this past November, and it reminded everyone why it’s the ultimate "if you know, you know" sneaker. While we’ve seen a retro before, the 2025 version took things a step further by introducing "Nike Air" branding on the heel for the first time. The triple-black nubuck was as sleek as ever, but it was that OG branding that made this drop a definitive upgrade for the collection.

Air Jordan 4 "Undefeated 2025" — IB1519 200

Easily the most talked-about release of the summer, the Undefeated 4 finally came back to celebrate its 20th anniversary in August. For two decades, this flight-jacket-inspired olive and orange masterpiece was a five-figure unicorn. The 2025 retail release stayed true to the original with the velcro tongue patches, but added a modern touch with the "Nike Air" heel tab. It was the moment collectors had been waiting for since 2005.

Air Jordan 1 "Union - I'm Back" — HV8563 600

Union LA did it again in February, proving their mastery of the "split" aesthetic. This year’s "I’m Back" colorway was a brilliant mashup of the "Chicago" base and the "Shadow" collar. Named after MJ’s legendary 1995 fax, the pair featured the signature Union zig-zag stitching and yellowed midsoles that have become a hallmark of Chris Gibbs’ collaborations. It was a masterclass in storytelling through leather and thread.

Air Jordan 5 "Awake NY - Arctic Pink" — DV4982 600

Late August brought us one of the most vibrant collaborations of the year. Awake NY took over the Air Jordan 5 with a bold "Arctic Pink" colorway that stood out in a sea of earth tones. What made this pair special were the intricate details: the Awake "A" logo embedded in the side panel netting and the "NY" and "23" embroidery on the heels. It was a perfect blend of Queens heritage and high-performance heritage.

Air Jordan 4 "Brick By Brick" — HF4340 800

BMX icon Nigel Sylvester continued his hot streak with Jordan Brand this spring. Released in March, the "Brick By Brick" 4 was inspired by the red-clay textures of the urban landscapes Nigel grew up riding. Dressed in Firewood Orange with "Bike Air" branding on the heel, this pair wasn't just a colorway; it was a tribute to the grind and the process of building a legacy one piece at a time.

Air Jordan 5 "Black Metallic Reimagined" — HF3975 001

We kicked off the year in February with a controversial but ultimately beloved take on a classic. To celebrate the 5's 35th anniversary, the "Black Metallic" was "Reimagined." Jordan Brand gave it white laces and reflective piping—a nod to how MJ actually wore them on-court in the 90s. While some purists hesitated at first, the upgraded shape and premium nubuck eventually won everyone over, making it a cornerstone of the 2025 rotation.

What are your favorite release from Jordan Brand in 2025?