The Air Jordan 5 ‘Bel-Air’ Could’ve Looked Like This

Nineties kids will undoubtedly associate the Air Jordan 5 culturally with The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, whereby leading star Will Smith frequently rocked the basketball shoe on the show. Jordan Brand unofficially paid tribute to this connection with a 2013 release that took inspiration from the zany outfits of said fresh prince. The resulting release was a somewhat muted grey pair that hinted at bright colours on the lining and sole. However, this sample reveals that things could’ve been much more vibrant.

As shared by @englishsole, these AJ5 samples opt for brilliant blue suede across the entire upper, creating a considerably more eye-catching finish. This is met by black midsoles covered in heavy blue, pink and neon yellow splatter. There’s more pink on the lining, while the backside of the tongue is aqua, sitting behind a neon yellow Jumpman. The bright AF package is finished off with just a bit more neon yellow on the outsoles and a pink lace toggle.

While the retail ‘Bel-Air’ execution eventually won out, these samples still take home the bacon for their judicious use of colour. Too bad they’ll probably never see a proper release…