# Tickled Pink: Why I’m Already Saving for the Air Jordan 5 OG “35th Anniversary”
So I was sitting on my couch last night, scrolling through sneaker news while my cat judged me silently from across the room (she’s more of an Adidas fan, I think), when I nearly spilled my coffee. The Air Jordan 5 is turning 35 next year, and Jordan Brand is celebrating with what might be the prettiest AJ5 I’ve seen in ages – the “Medium Soft Pink” colorway.
Look, I’m not usually a pink sneaker guy. My collection runs more toward the “safe” colors my wife calls “boring” – your blacks, your whites, maybe a navy if I’m feeling particularly wild. But there’s something about this upcoming release that’s got me reconsidering my whole approach to life. Or at least to footwear.
Let’s talk about what makes these kicks special. Coming October 11, 2025 (yep, we’ve got over a year to save up), the Air Jordan 5 OG “35th Anniversary” features a clean white leather upper that’ll pair with literally everything in your closet. But it’s the medium soft pink accents that are the real showstoppers here.
The iconic shark tooth design on the midsole – you know, the one inspired by WWII fighter planes that made the AJ5 so distinctive back in 1990 – comes dressed in this gorgeous pink that somehow manages to be both bold and sophisticated. I never thought I’d use the word “sophisticated” to describe a sneaker, but here we are in 2024, and I’m evolving.
Worth The Wait (And The Price)
The pink continues on the “23” embroidery, the Jumpman logo, and that beautiful Nike Air branding on the heel. There’s also some black detailing in the mix to balance things out. The whole package is just *chef’s kiss* – oops, I just actually made that gesture while typing. My dog is now looking at me like I’ve lost it.
At $210, these aren’t cheap. I remember when Jordans were under $100, but I also remember when gas was under $2, so clearly I’m just getting old. The good news is they’re coming in full-family sizing, so your mini-me can rock them too (though explaining to your 6-year-old why they need $210 sneakers might be a conversation you’re not ready for).
I’ve already started what I’m calling my “Pink Jordan Fund” – basically a jar where I’m throwing spare change and the occasional $20 I would’ve spent on takeout. My wife found it last week and thought I was saving for our anniversary. When I told her what it was really for, she just walked away shaking her head. Marriage is about compromise, people.
The History Behind the Hype
For those who don’t obsessively follow sneaker history like I do (I once bored an entire dinner party with my dissertation on the evolution of Air Max technology), the Air Jordan 5 first dropped in 1990. Tinker Hatfield designed it with that fighter plane inspiration I mentioned, and it was the shoe Michael wore during one of his most electric seasons.
The fact that they’re celebrating its 35th anniversary makes me feel ancient. I still remember begging my parents for a pair when I was a kid. They got me some knock-offs from the mall that fell apart after two weeks. Still bitter about that, Mom.
This “Medium Soft Pink” version feels like the perfect anniversary celebration – respectful of the original silhouette but with a fresh twist that feels modern without trying too hard. Unlike some recent releases that seem to be throwing everything but the kitchen sink at classic models (you know which ones I’m talking about).
The Great Debate: To Rock or to Stock?
Here’s my annual dilemma with special releases like this: do I wear them or keep them pristine in the box? Last time I got a pair I really loved, I wore them once, got a compliment from a teenager at the grocery store (peak life achievement), then promptly put them back in the box where they’ve remained ever since.
But something tells me these pink beauties deserve to see the light of day. They’re too pretty to stay locked up, and honestly, what’s the point of having awesome sneakers if you’re not going to wear them? That’s what I’ll tell myself until I get them and then immediately change my mind.
If you’re as hyped as I am, mark your calendar for October 11, 2025. These will drop at select Jordan Brand retailers, which means the usual suspects – Nike SNKRS app (pray for your internet connection that day), Foot Locker, and the like.
In the meantime, I’ll be here, adding to my Pink Jordan Fund and trying to convince my wife that yes, I absolutely need another pair of sneakers, especially ones this pretty. Wish me luck – both with the release day madness and the marital negotiations.
Anyone else planning to go for these? Drop a comment below – misery loves company, especially sneaker release misery.
