Tinker Hatfield is responsible for the unique design for the Jordan V. A few design elements were carried over from the Jordan IV, but the Air Jordan V featured a great silver/reflex tongue and a clear/see-through rubber sole creating a completely unique look. With the addition of lacelocks and shark teeth shapes on the midsole, this shoe is rumoured to have been inspired by a World War II fighter plane.

The clear rubber sole also seen in later Air Jordan Models such as VI, XI and XVI has upset many collectors due to its tendency to turn yellow. These Jordan shoes were retroed in late 1999 in white/black-fire red and black/black-met silver meeting great demand and enthusiasm in the marketplace. Retro+ models were also produced; one model featuring Michael Jordan's high school colors.