Jordan Cancels Several Air Jordan Retros for Holiday 2024, but El Grito 5 Still Drops

Jordan Brand has canceled several Air Jordan Retro releases for Holiday 2024 due to declining popularity. However, Jordan Brand celebrates Mexican culture with the release of the Air Jordan 5 "El Grito" on September 12th, commemorating Mexican Independence Day with a rich cultural design.

Jordan Cancels Multiple Retro Releases for Holiday 2024 Amid Declining Demand and Surplus Inventory

In addition to canceling the Air Jordan 5 “Black Cat” release, several other Retro colorways have also been delayed. According to @zsneakerheadz, six Air Jordan Retros initially slated for the year's final quarter have either been scrapped or postponed until 2025. Given the decline in popularity and sales for non-original or less coveted Retro colorways, it seems likely that these models were canceled altogether.

Once leading the retro lifestyle sneaker movement, Jordan Retros has experienced a drop in demand and relevance. Diminished value in the secondary market has dissuaded resellers from purchasing stock in bulk, leaving Jordan Brand with excess inventory. According to Sneaker News, this surplus has led to many Jordan Retro products being relegated to Nike Factory Outlet stores, as seen in social media posts. As prices for Air Jordan Retro sneakers continue to climb and demand falls, the brand faces a critical need for a refresh to regain consumer interest.

This situation has shaped the highly anticipated 2025 release lineup, packed with sought-after drops deemed "can’t miss" by the Jordan community. As 2025 marks the 40th anniversary of the Air Jordan, Jordan Brand appears to be using this milestone to reignite excitement. Despite maintaining a $7 billion revenue last fiscal year, the brand aims to recover its cultural relevance.

Of the canceled releases, the Air Jordan 5 “Black Cat” had the most potential, while the other five colorways were expected to struggle at retail and likely end up on clearance.

Jordan Brand Honors Mexican Culture with Air Jordan 5 ‘El Grito’ Release Ahead of Independence Day

Meanwhile, the Air Jordan 5 “El Grito” will be released on September 12th via SNKRS and select retailers. This commemorative edition, which honors Mexican culture, was first released in Mexico, with the broader release coinciding with Mexican Independence Day on September 16th. Retailing for $210 in men’s sizing, the design embraces Mexican heritage with subtle nods to the country’s flag, Aztec-inspired embossing, and a rich color palette.

The special edition packaging, with its intricate graphics and historical Air Jordan logos, further enhances the storytelling, making this release a standout.