Double Tap to Zoom

Sometimes to push forward, you have to strip back – that's what Nike must've thought when deciding to, as part of their Retro initiative, re-release the Air Jordan 5 'White and Black', also known as 'Reverse Metallic'.

Back with its lace toggle and only very subtly patterned side-panels, this sneaker is further indicative of what seems to be a general movement at Nike towards more minimalist kicks.

Your Highsnobiety privacy settings have blocked this Instagram post.

Whether we compare this to the one-tone Comfort Rides of late, the all black Air Max Boot, the creamy Phantoms, or even the fully burgundy-brown satin Jordan 1 Lows – Nike's apparently honing in on a knack for simplistic colorways, and stepping away from more maximalist designs.

Nonetheless, friends of funkier footwear needn't worry, as Nike is sure to roll out more visually piercing models as we speak. But until then, congratulate the sneakerheads amongst you that'll undoubtedly bask in this back to basics moment.

NikeAir Jordan 5 Retro White and Black
$200
Buy at Nike

Want to keep browsing? Download the Highsnobiety App for early access to limited-edition product drops on the Highsnobiety Shop. Highsnobiety has affiliate marketing partnerships, which means we may receive a commission from your purchase.

We Recommend
  • Nike’s Fanciest Forces Refuse to Clock Out
  • Nike’s Ruggedized Air Max Is a Military-Minded Gem
  • Nike's Insane ACG-Hoops Crossover Returns to the Streets
  • Nike’s Wheat Air Force 1 Sneaker Channels 2016 Nostalgia
  • Nike Built an All-Weather Recovery Sneaker for Hikers
What To Read Next
  • This is the Lemony Garlicky Miso Gochujang Pasta of Running Shorts
  • How Did UGG Go From Paparazzi Staple to JW Anderson Co-Sign?
  • New York's Craziest Vintage Archive Is Hidden In a Brooklyn Basement
  • Arte Antwerp’s Twisted Adidas GSG9 Is Ready for War
  • UGG's Tasman Slipper Goes Full Bottega Veneta