The Air Jordan 8 “Bugs Bunny” is one of the three original colorways of the Air Jordan 8 that debuted during the 1992–1993 NBA season. First released in February 1993, the sneaker became instantly recognizable for its white, black, grey, and True Red colorway. It had the “Bugs Bunny” nickname due to its resemblance to Michael Jordan’s animated teammate from Warner Bros.’ Looney Tunes universe, a connection that would later be popularized through iconic marketing campaigns and the 1996 movie Space Jam.
Michael Jordan wore this specific colorway throughout the second half of the 1993 NBA season, further solidifying its place in basketball and sneaker history. Designed by Tinker Hatfield, the Air Jordan 8 stood out for its bold, aggressive construction, featuring signature crisscrossing straps, sculpted overlays, and a distinctive heel guard with abstract graphics. These elements gave the silhouette a powerful, futuristic look that embodied the early ’90s aesthetic.
Nike’s collaboration with Warner Bros. during the early to mid-1990s played a major role in the sneaker’s cultural impact. Bugs Bunny appeared in a series of Nike advertisements wearing this exact colorway, with the white and grey tones mirroring the cartoon character’s signature fur. Bugs also famously wore the Air Jordan 8 “Bugs Bunny” in Space Jam further elevating the shoe’s pop culture status.
Since its original release, Jordan Brand has brought the “Bugs Bunny” colorway back at roughly decade-long intervals. The first retro release arrived in 2003, followed by another in 2008 as part of the Air Jordan 8/15 Countdown Pack, and again in 2013. The upcoming 2025 release will release 12 years after its last retro.
The 2025 Air Jordan 8 “Bugs Bunny” features a white leather upper with grey suede accents, bold True Red detailing, and a blue Jumpman logo on the tongue. The molded overlays, supportive straps, and chunky midsole remain true to the original design and shape of the 19993 original.
The Air Jordan 8 “Bugs Bunny” releasedon December 20, 2025, in full family sizing through SNKRS and select Nike and Jordan Brand retailers, bringing back a celebrated piece of sneaker, sports, and pop culture history.