Air Jordan 6 “Infrared” Not Releasing In 2026

In celebration of the 35th Anniversary.

Sneaker News March 24th, 2025 (updated)

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Updated March 24th, 2025: Unfortunately, the Air Jordan 6 “Infrared” is not expected to release in 2026. Instead, the “Reverse Infrared” sample is intended to drop in Spring 2026.

One of the most significant Air Jordans in the timeline is set for a return in 2026. The Air Jordan 6 “Infrared” is now expected to return to stores in Spring 2026 bearing true-to-original shape, materials, and colors in an effort to align with the Jumpman’s dedication to crafting the most accurate replicas of the originals.

This black/infrared sneaker is best remembered for being the vehicle to Michael Jordan’s first NBA Championship in 1991, kicking off a string of six titles in eight years.

At one point in the brand’s Retro era from 1999 and beyond, the Air Jordan 6 “Infrared” was one of the most coveted sneakers on the planet. Revered for its sporty design and signature cues such as the heel “spoiler”, midsole color-blocking, the tongue cut-outs, the Infrared Jordan 6s were a sign of prestige as pairs were only in the hands of the most dedicated Jordan collectors.

The Infrared 6s have an extensive history in the Retro circuit. The first-ever re-issue came in 2000. It took a decade for the Jumpman to bring back the iconic sneaker, doing so in a “Varsity Red” version in early 2010 and later again that same year as part of the two-pair “Infrared Pack”. The popularity of the Air Jordan 6 continued well into the 2010s; Jordan Brand brought the shoe back as a solo act in 2014, and again in 2019 with Nike Air.

According to sneakermarketro, Jordan Brand is expected to launch the shoes in 2026; next year marks the 35th Anniversary of the silhouette, so there may be more in store. It also joins the Air Jordan 13 “He Got Game” as one of several OG Jordan colorways that are likely to drop next year; see our Jordan Release Dates page for the latest.