Beyond Bred Toes, These Next 'Heavyweight AJ' Drops Will Be Even Harder to Snag This Year!

2024-07-15

Over the past two years, fans of OG Air Jordans have been in for a treat!

Like the AJ1 'Black Toe',AJ1 'Bred', AJ3 'Black Cement',AJ4 'White Cement'...

These iconic colorways, typically re-released only every few years, are unexpectedly making a comeback over the next six months!

But that's not all-ultra-limited editions like the sky-high-priced UNDFTD collaborations, and Anthony PE editions, rare colorways we once could only dream of, are suddenly appearing too!

Today, let's delve into which 'Must-Watch Heavyweight AJ Retros' are dropping in the next six months, and see which ones are your favorites!

Air Jordan 1
Black Toe/Bred/UNC

Let's break it down one by one in chronological order. First up, the Air Jordan 1 boasts two iconic OG colorways!

Among them, the Reimagined version of the Black Toe is set to debut on October 18th. It continues with the familiar color blocking and leather quality, but with a twist: the wing logo is replaced with the original "AIR JORDAN" text as worn by MJ himself, and the inner collar returns to the OG signature style.

While it differs slightly from the original OG release, the anticipated increase in production should lower the barrier to acquisition, making it a solid choice for fans.

▼ Air Jordan 1 'Black Toe Reimagined'（18th Oct.）

Another heavyweight is the 'Bred' AJ1, especially significant as next year marks the 40th anniversary of the AJ1's debut. It's rumored that this re-release will faithfully bring back the details and silhouette of the OG from 1985. Let's look forward to seeing how the final product turns out.

▼ Air Jordan 1 High '85 'Bred' (Spring 2025)

Just announced, next year's 'UNC' AJ1 Reimagined version will continue the distressed specifications seen in the 2022 release of the Chicago AJ1 'Lost And Found'. This means the cracked leather on the heel and the distressed outsole will be preserved, recreating a nostalgic vintage feel reminiscent of bygone eras.

▼ Air Jordan 1 'UNC' Reimagined (Summer 2025)

Air Jordan 3
A Ma Manière Collaboration/Black Cement/Black Cat

For the equally popular AJ3 lineup, next month sees the return of the A Ma Manière collaboration in dark hues.

Still featuring the beloved low profile and vintage tones, expect high-quality detailing in the lining and materials, sure to appeal to many enthusiasts.

▼ A Ma Manière x Air Jordan 3 'Black' (August 2024)

And by the end of November, the OG Black Cement AJ3 will make its return in a faithful homage to its original form.

Of particular note, current reports indicate it will not adopt Reimagined specifications, aiming to stay true to the OG design as much as possible. Let's hope it lives up to expectations.

▼ Air Jordan 3 “Black Cement” (November 23rd)

In addition, after a 14-year hiatus, the Black Cat colorway will return in March next year. Its rarity and the cool visual appeal on feet make it irresistible.

▼ Air Jordan 3 “Black Cat” (March 2025)

Air Jordan 4
UNDFTD Collaboration/Fear/Nike SB Collaboration/White Cement

Moving on to the AJ4 lineup, here's a must-have for every player!

The allure of the Fear AJ4 speaks for itself, with splatter midsoles and a gender-neutral gradient layering, it's a showstopper.

▼ Air Jordan 4 'FEAR' (November 9th)

Unexpectedly, the ultra-limited and high-priced UNDFTD x Air Jordan 4 will also see a reissue!

With striking olive green and orange details that perfectly complement UNDFTD's military-inspired style, the shoe's Velcro tongue adds a unique touch of personality.

Let's just hope that if the reissue happens, it won't follow the auction or lottery release model seen with Nike MAG.

▼ UNDFTD x Air Jordan 4 (Summer 2025) Pasted Image

The previously successful Nike SB x AJ4, which exceeded expectations, will introduce two new colorways early next year.

Based on current renderings, the color schemes appear to be conventional.

The focus remains on the heel logo and enhanced comfort compared to previous releases.

▼ Nike SB x Air Jordan 4 (February 2025)

Perhaps the quintessential representation of the White Cement colorway in the Air Jordan lineup.

Currently, it's unclear whether this White Cement AJ4 will adopt "Reimagined" distressed specifications next year, or faithfully recreate the OG look from 1989. This ambiguity adds to the excitement surrounding its release.

▼ Air Jordan 4 'White Cement' (Summer 2025)

Air Jordan 5
Grape/A Ma Manière Collaboration

As one of the original AJ5 colorways, the Grape iteration has won fans over with its refreshing aqua and purple ensemble.

Last reissued in 2013, it delighted OG enthusiasts and caught the attention of many female AJ fans as well.

▼ Air Jordan 5 'Grape' (Summer 2025)

A Ma Maniére has also unveiled a new collaboration with AJ5, featuring a colorway defined as Diffused Blue.

From the renderings, it appears to be a tribute to the classic styling of the Grape AJ5.

▼ A Ma Maniére x Air Jordan 5 (Summer 2025)

Air Jordan 11
Legend Blue/Low Bred

At the end of the year, the AJ11 will bring back the long-awaited Legend Blue colorway.

The actual product has already been revealed, featuring a refreshingly crisp appearance distinct from the elegant black patent leather.

With accents of North Carolina blue, this shoe remains highly appealing!

▼ Air Jordan 11 'Legend Blue' (December 14th)

Another highly rare release is the low-top version of the OG Black/Red colorway from the AJ11's inaugural year.

Considering this year's 'Space Jam' AJ11 Low currently fetching below its original retail price of 300 dollars, it's likely to be another coveted item among collectors.

▼ Air Jordan 11 Low 'Bred' (Summer 2025)

Air Jordan 12
Melo Nuggets PE

In addition to the Flu Game colorway set to return in Spring 2025, the most exciting news for AJ12 enthusiasts is the Melo 'Nuggets PE' in white and blue.

▼ Air Jordan 12 'Melo' (Summer 2025)

Not only are PE editions coveted treasures among sneaker enthusiasts, but the Melo "Nuggets PE" is particularly intriguing due to its resemblance to the North Carolina color scheme, making it equally mesmerizing in terms of aesthetics.

Here are the upcoming heavyweight AJ releases.
Which ones are your must-haves?

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