Air Jordan 5 NRG “Grape” Is Inspired By Fresh Prince And Doesn’t Include Laces_Sole Says It All

The Air Jordan 5 “Grape” is undoubtedly one of the most-loved AJ5 colorways in the brand’s history. Its mix of white, purple, and aqua screams epochal early 90’s style, and it was first made iconic by a TV show that also boasts a lofty standing in the annals of pop culture history: The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, starring a young Will Smith. Smith’s character was known for his flashy outfits and use of bright colors, and Jordan Brand has already nodded to the Fresh Prince’s influence on the silhouette’s legacy with 2013’s “Bel-Air” 5s, but now they’re taking the inspiration even further with a recently revealed 2018 iteration of the “Grape” 5s.

The most instantly noticeable design twist on the commemorative kicks is the striking absence of laces. Die-Hard Fresh Prince fans may recall that Smith wore the Air Jordan 5 laceless in the opening credits and throughout the show’s first season run, so Jordan Brand has removed the normal laces and lace lock, and covered all the eyelets with a premium tumbled white leather. Smith’s—and his character’s—Philly heritage is also acknowledged via a debossed “West Philadelphia” hit directly above the tongue mesh. For a finishing dash of retro flair, the shoe also boasts Fresh Prince-inspired insoles and classic Nike branding. It’s also been reported that a special Friends and Family edition of the sneaker should be revealed soon. Look for these unique Jordan 5s to arrive on September 25th—Will Smith’s 50th birthday—and let us know what you think of this alternate take on a classic Jumpman sneaker.