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Do the Jordan 5 Green Bean Glow in the Dark?

Published in Sneaker Features 2 mins read

No, the Jordan 5 Green Bean sneakers do not glow in the dark. Instead, they feature a reflective design that illuminates when light is shined upon them.

Understanding the Illumination

The distinct "lighting up" effect of the Air Jordan 5 'Green Bean' comes from its entirely Silver upper, which is crafted with a reflective-design material. This means that the shoes do not emit their own light in the absence of an external light source, unlike true glow-in-the-dark materials that absorb light and then slowly release it over time (a process known as phosphorescence).

When hit by a flashlight, car headlights, or camera flash, the silver upper of the Green Bean 5s will brightly reflect that light, creating a striking visual effect that can appear as if they are glowing. This reflective quality was a key feature of the original 2006 release and remains a highlight of its retro versions, such as the Air Jordan 5 'Green Bean' (DM9014-003).

Reflective vs. Glow-in-the-Dark

It's important to differentiate between reflective properties and glow-in-the-dark capabilities, as they function very differently:

Feature Reflective Materials (e.g., Jordan 5 Green Bean) Glow-in-the-Dark Materials
Light Source Requires an external light source (e.g., flashlight, headlights) to "light up." Absorbs light energy and re-emits it without an external source.
Mechanism Bounces light back directly to the source, like a mirror. Undergoes phosphorescence, emitting light after activation.
Visibility Highly visible in low-light conditions when illuminated by a light source. Self-illuminating in darkness for a period after charging.
Appearance Often appears bright or "lit" when light hits it. Emits a soft, often green or blue, light.
Common Use Safety gear, road signs, sneaker accents. Toys, stars for ceilings, watch faces.

The Legacy of the Green Bean 5

The Air Jordan 5 'Green Bean' is a fan-favorite retro release, known for its iconic design and eye-catching reflective upper. First launched in 2006, its distinctive silver finish and reflective capabilities have made it a sought-after model for sneaker enthusiasts who appreciate unique visual flair in their footwear. The design ensures that the shoes stand out, especially in low-light environments where their reflective qualities can be fully appreciated.