The Air Jordan 4 is one of the most iconic sneakers in history. Since its debut in 1989, this Tinker Hatfield-designed silhouette has transcended basketball to become a streetwear and pop culture staple. With countless colorways released over the years, some stand above the rest in terms of popularity, legacy, and sheer hype. Here’s a look at the Top 10 Most Popular Jordan 4 Colorways of All Time.
1. Jordan 4 “Bred” (Black/Red)
Release Year: 1989 (retro releases: 1999, 2008, 2012, 2019)
Arguably the most legendary colorway, the “Bred” features a black nubuck upper with red and grey accents. Worn by MJ during “The Shot” over Craig Ehlo, this pair is rich in history and style.
2. Jordan 4 “White Cement”
Release Year: 1989 (retro releases: 1999, 2012, 2016)
Clean, classic, and timeless — the “White Cement” colorway is one of the most universally loved Jordans. The white leather paired with black and speckled cement grey accents makes this a must-have.
3. Jordan 4 “Military Blue”
Release Year: 1989 (retro releases: 2006, 2012, 2024)
This cooler-toned version brought something different to the lineup. Its clean white and grey base accented by pops of blue remains a fan favorite — especially with the recent 2024 retro bringing back the original Nike Air branding.
4. Jordan 4 “Fire Red”
Release Year: 1989 (retro releases: 2006, 2012, 2020)
Another OG colorway, the “Fire Red” is bold and sporty. The contrast of crisp white with vibrant red accents made this pair stand out on and off the court.
5. Jordan 4 “Black Cat”
Release Year: 2006 (retro release: 2020)
Minimalist and sleek, the all-black “Black Cat” is a versatile favorite for sneakerheads who love tonal shoes. Its 2020 re-release sold out instantly and remains one of the most in-demand Jordans on the resale market.
6. Jordan 4 “Thunder”
Release Year: 2006 (retro releases: 2012, 2023)
The “Thunder” offers a bold contrast with black nubuck and bright yellow hits. Its limited release and striking look made it an instant classic, and every re-release only adds to the hype.
7. Jordan 4 “Cool Grey”
Release Year: 2004 (retro release: 2019)
Understated and classy, the “Cool Grey” colorway has aged beautifully. With premium materials and subtle detailing, it’s a go-to for fans who want something stylish without being flashy.
8. Jordan 4 “Off-White Sail”
Release Year: 2020
Virgil Abloh’s collaboration with Jordan Brand resulted in one of the most hyped releases of the decade. The Off-White “Sail” colorway combined luxury and deconstruction with a soft cream palette, making it a grail-level sneaker.
9. Jordan 4 “Travis Scott Cactus Jack”
Release Year: 2018
Designed in collaboration with rapper Travis Scott, this bright University Blue colorway with red lining and “Cactus Jack” branding took the sneaker world by storm. Its limited availability and celebrity endorsement cemented its status.
10. Jordan 4 “Union LA Off Noir”
Release Year: 2020
Union LA’s take on the Jordan 4 was initially polarizing, but it quickly became a cult favorite. The “Off Noir” features unique materials, stitching, and a fold-down tongue, setting it apart from the standard GR (general release) options.
Final Thoughts
The Air Jordan 4 has earned its legendary status not just for its performance and design, but for its cultural impact. Whether you’re chasing OG classics or modern-day collaborations, these colorways continue to define what it means to be iconic in the sneaker world. If you’re building a collection or simply looking for your next favorite pair, any of these top 10 colorways is a worthy addition.
