The Air Jordan 6 “Reverse Infrared” will be released in Spring 2026. Originally spotted in 1999, the shoes are also known as “Infrared Salesman Sample” and were never released to the public.
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In 2026, Jordan Brand will celebrate the 35th Anniversary of the Air Jordan 6, including new and old colorways of the silhouette. One of the pairs that will launch in the Spring is the “Reverse Infrared” Air Jordan 6, also known as the “Infrared Salesman Sample.” Although the shoes were never released to the public, this will change in 2026.
Original reports suggested that the OG Air Jordan 6 “Black Infrared” would return in 2026. However, from our sources, we can confirm that the “Reverse Infrared” will debut. Furthermore, this pair is not listed as part of Jordan Brand’s “Reimagined” series.
Air Jordan 6 Reverse Infrared History
This Air Jordan 6 Infrared Sample was first spotted in 1999. Known as the “Reverse Infrared,” the shoes would not be released publicly. However, pairs did get out; even today, you can find an original pair floating on eBay.
Many know this pair from seeing it in an Eastbay catalog around 2000. Rumor has it that Jordan Brand had planned to release this sample, also known as “Alternate Infrared,” but due to the backlash, the pair was scrapped. We would see the first retro release of the “Infrared” Jordan 6 in 2000, which included Nike Air branding.
Difference Between Infrared and Reverse Infrared
Although the overall colors are the same between the Air Jordan 6 “Infrared” and “Reverse Infrared,” some differences exist. The biggest difference is the amount of Red used on the shoes. Across the midsole of the Reverse pair is more Red. Furthermore, the Nike Air branding on the heels features Infrared instead of Black.
Air Jordan 6 Infrared Releases Through the Years
The “Infrared” Jordan 6 is a special release in the Jordan signature line. Not only was it the model that Michael Jordan wore to win his first NBA Championship, but the “Infrared” pair was also the shoes that MJ was wearing. The Chicago Bulls beat the Lakers 4 games to 1 in 1991, their first NBA Championship.
The Air Jordan 6 “Infrared” debuted in 1991, the original release. The first retro occurred in 2000. As legend has it, we almost received what is now called the “Reverse Infrared.” The next release of the shoes was in 2010, which came as part of the “Infrared” Pack. Included were the “Black Infrared” and “White Infrared” iterations.
The same year, JB released the “Varsity Red” Air Jordan 6. However, the Red used differed from the original pair, and most don’t consider the shoes part of “Infrared” history. Fast-forward to 2014, and Jordan Brand would release the “Infrared” AJ 6 again. While the color blocking was on point and even featured 3M reflective, the shoes had the Jumpman instead of Nike Air branding. The last time the brand dropped the shoes was in 2019. This version of the release featured a nubuck upper, 3M reflective accents, and Nike Air branding on the heels.
As for the 2026 Air Jordan 6 “Reverse Infrared,” the shoes will feature a Black and Light Crimson color scheme. This pair will resemble the 1999 pair. It will feature Black nubuck across the upper and the signature perforations on the panels. Highlighting the shoes, Light Crimson will fill most of the midsole, Jumpman on the tongue, lace lock, and Nike Air on the heels. The design is primarily a translucent rubber outsole.
Air Jordan 6 Reverse Infrared Release Date
The Air Jordan 6 “Reverse Infrared” will be released in Spring 2026 at select Jordan Brand retailers and online via Nike.com. This means a release will occur between January and March 2026. The retail price is currently unknown. Once we have more details, we will update you. For now, check out a few additional photos below.
The “Reverse Infrared” Air Jordan 6 is set to launch in Spring 2026. First seen in 1999, this long-awaited edition finally makes its public debut, bringing a piece of Jordan Brand history to sneaker collectors.
Visit our Air Jordan Release Dates page for more upcoming drops from the brand.
Air Jordan 6 “Reverse Infrared”
Color: Black/Light Crimson
Release Date: Spring 2026
Style Code: CT8529-001
Price: TBA
Where to Buy
The information is in collaboration with zsneakerheadz.
Frequently Asked Questions
The “Reverse Infrared” Jordan 6 will be released in Spring 2026. This means a release will occur between January and March 2026.
The shoes were never released to the public. However, pairs were produced in 1999. Jordan Brand would release the OG “Black Infrared” AJ 6 in 2000 instead of the “Reverse” iteration.
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