For the 35th anniversary of the Air Jordan 6, one of its most iconic colorways returns with a special twist: the Air Jordan 6 Infrared "Salesman." The release is accompanied by an Apparel Collection celebrating the silhouette Michael Jordan wore as he took the first step toward what would later become six NBA Championships and six NBA Finals MVP awards.

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The Air Jordan 6 marked the beginning of that era. Designed by Tinker Hatfield, it was worn by Michael Jordan during the 1991 playoffs on his way to his first title. The AJ6 Infrared colorway has been reissued several times since, first in 2000 and later in 2010 and 2014, with those releases notably lacking Nike Air branding on the heel. Even the finer points shifted from run to run, including slightly different shades of Infrared.

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However, one version remained an almost forgotten sample for nearly 30 years. An Infrared sample surfaced in a 1999 seasonal preview catalog, but was pulled before it ever went into production. Its biggest update was the placement of the Infrared: instead of being limited to the heel and parts of the forefoot, the color extends much further across the midsole.

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In spring 2026, the Air Jordan 6 Infrared "Salesman" will officially release for the first time. It draws on key details from the original sample, including the extended Infrared placement across the midsole, a black nubuck upper, a visible Air unit in the heel, and a Dynamic Fit inner sleeve.

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For this new version, a specific shade of Infrared was reconstructed by comparing 1991 and 2000 pairs side by side to match the original specifications as closely as possible. In addition, the "Salesman" is the first non-collaboration AJ6 to feature an updated shape that more closely mirrors the original 1991 silhouette. The internal bootie construction was also revised so the toe shape sits closer to the pairs MJ actually wore on court.

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In addition, the tongue height was adjusted and raised by 2 mm to recreate the look of MJ’s in-game pairs, which featured noticeably taller tongues than previous retail versions.

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Nodding to the sample’s origins, the design features sample text printed on the inner collar. It also comes with a factory hangtag and packaging that mirrors how footwear samples arrive for review before they go into production. These samples are typically used to present the product to retailers ahead of a release.

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“It’s the centerpiece of the Infrared Collection," says Terrance Harvey, Expert, Streetwear Footwear Product Management Icons, Jordan Brand. “MJ won his first championship in this colorway, and since then, it has represented greatness. I’m excited for this newly reimagined icon to inspire fans to always strive for more.”

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Alongside the colorway drop, an Apparel Pack featuring classic Infrared Jordan Brand graphics will release. Additional footwear with Infrared detailing is also planned, including an Air Jordan 1 Low and the Flight Court.

The Nike Air Jordan 6 Infrared "Salesman" releases on February 14 at select retailers: 43einhalb, AFEW, Asphaltgold and BSTN.

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Photos via Nike