The Air Jordan 40 Does Its Best Impressions of MJ's Past Signature Sneakers

The Air Jordan 40 is a monumental moment for the athlete-specific signature product space. The silhouette is the pinnacle expression of performance basketball footwear, but it's inherently an acknowledgment of the uncertain bets, awe-inspiring feats on-court, and relentless effort from all those involved behind-the-scenes with Jordan Brand since 1985. For its latest ensemble, Michael Jordan's latest signature style looks back at some of his previous ones.

An official name for the project has yet to be revealed by the brand as of this writing, but internal product descriptions name each pair as "AJ40[x]," where "x" takes the place of the respective design it references. Nods to the Air Jordan 23 and Air Jordan 16 kick off what will presumably be a 40-drop collection. Naturally, each model's most emblematic original finish takes over the current Air Jordan, presenting the modern product in nostalgic ensembles rooted in retro design language.

The project's full scope has yet to pan out, but details like contrast stitch lines from the "Black Stealth" AJ23 and removable lace covers from the "Midnight Navy" AJ16 suggest whichever pairs get referenced will be done right by.

Enjoy official photos of the commemorative Air Jordan 40s ahead. Pairs should release via Nike.com/Jordan by the first-half of 2026. You can buy retro product via StockX right now.

For more hoops footwear from the Swoosh empire, check out the Nike LeBron 23.