With the return of the Air Jordan 8 ‘Aqua’, it’s hard not to reflect on the history of this legendary silhouette. Originally debuting during the 1992–1993 NBA season, the Air Jordan 8 marked the end of Michael Jordan’s first three-peat with the Chicago Bulls—and what many thought would be his final sneaker. Thankfully, history had other plans.

Over the last 30 years, the Air Jordan 8 has earned its place as a true icon in sneaker culture. From OG colorways to luxe collabs and bold PEs, it’s time to run down the eight best Air Jordan 8 colorways of all time.

8. Air Jordan 8 ‘Chrome’ (2003)

Grey painted accents

Debuting in 2003, the ‘Chrome’ marked the first time the AJ8 retro’d. The sleek black and grey upper stood out, but it really gained traction after Kobe Bryant wore them in a 40-point playoff performance against Utah.

Crafted with black Durabuck and accented by chrome on the cross straps, this pair brought subtle flair to the loud silhouette. A grey Jumpman sits on the chenille tongue, and the midsole features metallic grey brush strokes.
💰 Current resale: $44 (pre-owned, size 10.5 on GOAT)

7. Air Jordan 8 ‘Aqua’ (2025)

Purple and blue chenille patch on the tongue

One of the original 1993 colorways, the ‘Aqua’ is returning once again in 2025. Famously worn by MJ during the ’93 All-Star Game, it’s a fan favorite for good reason.

The upcoming retro stays true to form with a black nubuck upper, grey heel wrap, and the iconic purple and aqua accents along the midsole and mudguard.

Current resale: $221 (pre-owned, size 10.5 on Goat)

6. Solefly x Air Jordan 8 ‘Mi Casa Es Su Casa’

Off-white mesh underneath

This 2023 collab from Miami boutique SoleFly pays tribute to Jordan’s brief baseball career and Cuban-American culture. Tonal sail suede, Cuban tile-inspired insoles, and gold details give the AJ8 a luxurious and narrative-driven makeover.

With the phrase “Mi Casa Es Su Casa” hidden under the strap and a cigar-box-style package, this is one of the most thoughtful AJ8 releases in years.
💰 Resale: ~$250 (Size 10.5 on GOAT/StockX)

5. Air Jordan 8 SP PE Multicolor (2019)

Multi-colored cross strap

This 2019 drop is a love letter to the ‘90s. Part of a special release with Dover Street Market, this pair ditches the norm with white perforated leather, translucent red and blue straps, and a colorful chenille patch.

It’s a bold take that breaks from tradition—perfect for those who want their kicks to make noise.
💰 Resale: ~$200 (Size 10.5 on GOAT)

4. Air Jordan 8 ‘Playoffs’ (2023)

23 stitches on the cross strap

MJ wore the ‘Playoffs’ during the 1993 NBA Finals, completing his first three-peat. While it’s a basic black-and-red colorway, its historical weight makes it one of the most important AJ8s.

A black suede upper, red pull tab, multicolor sock liner, and the classic cross strap keep this OG colorway true to its roots.
💰 Resale: ~$350 (Size 10.5 on GOAT/StockX)

3. Air Jordan 8 ‘ Cool Grey’ (2017)

Grey nubuck upper

Jordan Brand’s “Cool Grey” theme always hits, and the AJ8 version is no exception. Smooth wolf grey suede and leather dominate the upper, while the muted paint splatter and tonal chenille tongue give it a clean, modern look.

Simple, versatile, and timeless—these are easy to wear with just about anything.
💰 Resale: ~$576 (Size 10 on GOAT)

2. Air Jordan 8 ‘Bugs Bunny’ (2013)

Red and grey chenille patch

Named after the legendary Looney Tunes campaign, the ‘Bugs Bunny’ AJ8 is pure nostalgia. Last seen in 2013, the white leather upper with grey suede accents and red highlights makes this a standout among OG colorways.

The chenille tongue patch and black/red painted mudguard seal the deal. This pair is a must-have for any serious Jordan collector.
💰 Resale: ~$185–$424 (Size 10.5 on eBay/GOAT)

1.Air Jordan 8 ‘Bred’ (2017)

All black chenille patch

No surprise here—if it’s black and red, it’s bred for greatness. The 2017 ‘Bred’ AJ8 is the ultimate blend of heritage and heat. Black suede, red Jumpman, and grey detailing make this colorway sleek, aggressive, and wearable.

This is the definitive non-OG AJ8. If you could only have one pair—this is it.
💰 Resale: ~$279–$494 (Size 10.5 on GOAT/StockX/eBay)

Air Jordan 8 Final Thoughts

From iconic originals to high-concept collaborations, the Air Jordan 8 has built a legacy that continues to evolve. Whether you’re chasing nostalgia, styling a fit, or hunting grails—there’s a Jordan 8 colorway that tells your story.

Which one is your favorite? Let us know on Instagram or drop a comment. See more classic Jordan in our Sneaker Release Roundup.

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