In this category we've gathered authentic Air Jordan 3 sneakers – from colorways referencing the '80s to the most sought-after collaborations of recent years. Below we take a closer look at the history of the model, suggest how to choose your size and explain how we verify authenticity.
History of the Air Jordan 3
Originally released in 1988, the Air Jordan 3 was the first Air Jordan model designed by Tinker Hatfield. It was also the debut of the now-iconic Jumpman, which would later replace the original Air Jordan Wings logo.
The AJ 3 was also the first model to feature a visible Air unit in the heel and details with a print imitating elephant skin. The character Mars Blackmon, played by Spike Lee, debuted in the shoe's advertising. It is largely thanks to him that this model became hugely popular in the United States.
It wasn't just its unprecedented, bold and stylish design that turned heads in 1988; what also matters is that the Air Jordan III has stood the test of time and remains one of the most popular sneakers to this day. It is undoubtedly one of the best shoe models in history.
The Model That Kept Jordan at Nike
The Air Jordan 3 is often described as the shoe that saved the partnership between Michael Jordan and Nike. Tinker Hatfield designed it in close consultation with the player: with a mid-cut upper lower than on its predecessors and soft leather that was comfortable right from the start. The success of the model paved the way for the next installments of the series.
In 1988, four colorways hit the market: White Cement, Black Cement, Fire Red and True Blue. The gray elephant-skin pattern on the toe and heel gave its name to the entire “Cement” family of versions, which still returns in new editions today.
Air Jordan 3 Colorways and Collaborations in Our Selection
- Classics: White Cement Reimagined and Fire Red in the 2022 release – both reference the first colorways from 1988.
- Modern interpretations: Pine Green, Palomino, Midnight Navy, Dark Iris, Cardinal Red, Muslin and Neapolitan Dark Mocha.
- Collaborations: releases with the A Ma Maniére boutique (including While You Were Sleeping and Diffused Blue), the Fragment edition and J Balvin pairs – Rio and Medellín Sunset.
- Special editions: a pair from the Doernbecher Freestyle charity program, in which the shoes are designed by young patients of the Doernbecher hospital, and Patchwork Camo with a camouflage motif.
How to Choose Your Size and How to Wear the Air Jordan 3
The Air Jordan 3 has a fairly standard shape, so most people go with their regular size. With a wider foot, consider going half a size up. If you're unsure, try on the pairs available in person at our brick-and-mortar store in Wrocław.
The mid-height upper means the AJ3 looks good with both straight jeans and wider cargo pants falling over the tongue of the shoe. Light colorways with the gray pattern are easy to pair with basic colors, while bolder versions, such as Dark Iris or Pine Green, are worth treating as the main accent of the outfit.
Authentic Air Jordan 3 at SneakersJoint
Every pair reaches the customer only after authenticity verification – a check under UV light, a check of EAN codes and comparison with a reference pair. You can read about the entire process on the authenticity at SneakersJoint page. You'll find other models from the series in the Nike Air Jordan category, and if you like a similar silhouette, also check out the Air Jordan 4.
Frequently asked questions
What is the elephant print pattern on the Air Jordan 3?
It's a motif imitating the texture of elephant skin, usually placed on the toe and heel. It debuted on the AJ3 and became one of the most recognizable elements of the Jordan line.
What does the Reimagined label mean?
The Reimagined series consists of releases modeled on historical originals but with a deliberately aged look, for example with cream-colored instead of white elements. This way the new pair resembles a well-preserved vintage piece.
How long does shipping take?
In-stock pairs ship within 24 hours, and made-to-order models are fulfilled in 2–10 business days. Delivery to an InPost parcel locker costs 15 PLN, delivery by courier costs 15 PLN, and on orders of 1000 PLN or more you don't pay for shipping at all.
Can I return the shoes?
Yes – you have 14 days to send back shoes bought online. We explain how to prepare the package and request a return on the returns page.
