When shopping for Jordan shoes, it’s normal to get confused between two types that look almost the same. In this way, a normal person would mistake the Jordan 5 and the Jordan 7 on the spot, but there are differences between them.
If this is also the case with you and you are unable to distinguish between them, it is time to determine which option is best for you.
So, in this article, we’ll provide you with all the information you need to know about these two remarkable pairs of Jordans.
Similarities and Differences between Jordan 5 And 7:
| Features | Jordan 5 | Jordan 7 |
|---|---|---|
| Launched in | 1990 | 1992 |
| Stability | Adequate Stability | Stable |
| Flexibility | Flexible | More Flexible |
| Sizing | 6-13 for Men4-11 for Women | 5-13 for Men3.5-11 for Women |
| Weight | 15-17 oz. | 16.9 oz. |
| Cushion | Thick Cushioning | Dense Cushioning |
| Outsole | Clear rubber | Rubber |
| Insole | Fabric | Textile |
| Upper | Grain Leather/ Nubuck | Real and synthetic Leather/ Nubuck |
| Midsole | TPU | Foam/ Phylon |
| Retail Price | $125-$210 | $200 |
Jordan 5 VS Jordan 7: Good, Bad, and the Worst:
We will closely examine the different aspects of these models to see if one has better characteristics than the other. Let’s begin:
1) Comfort:
The Jordan 5 features the company’s trademark Air cushioning system; the air units placed in this model are comprised of rubber pouches filled with thick gas.
When pressure is put on them they compressed, and when the stress is released they return to the original size and shape, provide the wearer with a significant amount of energy, and rebound.
Also, compared to the previous iterations, this model fits better because of its arch-molding and small internal heel counter, which also makes it more stable.
So, with extra padding and an exclusive cushioning system, you’d expect the Air Jordan 5 to be easy to wear for longer periods.
In contrast, due to the construction difference, you will notice a clear difference between the comfort of Air Jordan 7 and previous models.
As the original Jordan 5 featured an embedded full-length Air unit but this model has cushion placed directly underfoot which has been greatly improved over other iterations.
Its snug, comfy fit was largely due to the Neoprene and Air Huarache technology used in these shoes, which also provides a lot more flex. Moreover, its Phylon-wrapped Polyurethane midsole offers enhanced responsiveness at the forefoot and heel.
In a line, out of these two Air Jordans, the Jordan 7 offers the most comfort and pleasant in-shoe feel.
2) Popularity:
Air Jordan 7 signified Michael Jordan’s second NBA Championship and his Olympic Gold Medal winning at the 1992 Summer Olympic Games in Barcelona; the Jordan brand reached the height of its popularity at this time.
Alternately, the Air Jordan 5 maintains its status as one of the most fashionable styles of its period.
The model’s continued popularity can be attributed to the shoe’s wide availability in a variety of eye-catching hues. This Jordan Model has also been seen worn by celebrities in movies and television series.
3) Running:
The technologies utilized in the Jordan 5 and 7 make it possible to run in them, as they are ideally suited for the basketball court and other activities which require little running and jumping.
However, they could seem more cumbersome compared to footwear specifically designed for running, which means that these shoes are better suited for casual usage than running.
4) Walking:
The Air Jordan 5 and 7 will be reliable for anyone in need of walking footwear as these sneakers are supportive and easy on the feet due to their well-padded soles.
In addition, the midsole of the Jordan 7 offers an overall pleasurable walking experience, this makes sense because the shoes have a standard lace-up closure and a neoprene inner sleeve that provides a dynamic fit.
5) Flat Feet:
The easiest way to treat flat feet is to wear shoes with thicker soles and higher arch support of the same height as your foot.
The “Air Jordan 7” has an elevated footbed compared to the “Jordan 5” to provide better strength, so it might be the superior option for this foot type.
The Air Jordan 7’s large forefoot and roomy inside also ensure that the wearer’s feet won’t feel squished, even after long periods spent in them. So, people who have flat feet will be able to find more ease in this model.
6) Design:
Despite many shoe styles from the late 1980s appearing very similar to the Air Jordan 5, it is one of the few chunky sneakers that has endured.
The WWII fighter plane is an inspiration for the design of this model, which represents the midsole’s shark-tooth pattern, distinguishing this Jordan sneaker from the rest of the line.
Furthermore, this model borrows elements from its predecessor, notably the breathable mesh side panel, however, it distinguishes itself with a prominent tongue.
Air Jordan 5 was also groundbreaking because it incorporates new features to the Jordan line, such as a clear outsole, an asymmetrical ankle collar, molded foam, and vibrant material.
Overall, this model is the most appropriate option if you want a pair of basketball-inspired sneakers that can be worn both on and off the court.
Conversely, The Air Jordan 7 is similar to its earlier versions in many ways, including its high ankle, and midsole detail, but it has seen more color variations. The bright and dynamic designs on the outsole and tongue were inspired by African tribal prints.
Typical Nike details, such as the Huarache technology designed by Tinker Hatfield, are still present in the Jordan 7, however, the sneaker no longer features Nike’s logo or the Air window introduced in prior iterations.
Furthermore, based on the colorway the materials will be varied in this model, if you want the most support possible, go with the leather options while its Nubuck iterations provide less stability but more freedom of movement.
Overall, this iconic Jordan 7 is a better choice if you’re looking for a pair of basketball kicks that can take some damage and keep your feet safe.
What do customers think?
Air Jordan 5 was appreciated for preventing falls, providing instant comfort, and keeping the soles warm.
Customers who purchased the Air Jordan 5 praised the design’s superior quality, complimenting the logos, reflective tongue, and lace locks.
It was also well-liked because its sock-like fit and enhanced traction made it easier to walk on a variety of surfaces.
Moreover, some users claim that despite the Air Jordan 5’s dense cushioning, it could still perform well during gameplay.
Nonetheless, some considered it discouraging to retie their shoes so frequently while strolling or exercising.
People, however, concur that its materials performed admirably but the midsole paint is where most wear and tear can be seen.
In addition, the majority of customers found that this model suited them better when they ordered half a size larger than their usual size.
Conversely, many basketball players have liked the midsole of Air Jordan 7 for the support and comfort it gives their feet on the court.
Several purchasers have commented on how effectively this pair grips the court regardless of whether you’re indoors or out.
A lot of basketball players said that the Air Jordan 7 Retro hasn’t shown any signs of deterioration even though it’s been used in a lot of rigorous games.
Some of the players have complained that the traction pattern on the dusty courts requires constant wiping.
A few devotees of the Air Jordan brand have noted that the Air Jordan 7 Retro requires some breaking in time.
According to reviews, this pair runs true to size but has some extra room inside so, no complaints from those with wide feet are reported, but narrow footed-people are advised to go for a size down.
Conclusion: Which Is Better?
In a nutshell, The Jordan 5 is an appropriate choice because it is capable of enduring different types of sports activities and offers better stability, and lasts a very long time.
On the other hand, the Air Jordan 7 might be the best Air Jordan shoe style for use on the court. Compared to the earlier models, they have the best cushioning, solid traction, reliable materials with a pretty solid fit, more ventilation than average, and still a lot of support. There is undoubtedly a style that complements your taste, given its wide range of designs and colorways.
Now that you understand the fundamental differences between these variants, you can make a smart choice based on your specific needs.