Kristian Ferrell
The Air Jordan 3, also known as the Jordan Retro 3, is a popular basketball shoe that was first released in 1988. The shoe was designed by Tinker Hatfield and was the third instalment of Michael Jordan's signature shoe with Nike. The Air Jordan 3 introduced a new mid-cut silhouette and featured an iconic elephant print design, as well as visible Air units in the heel and forefoot. The shoe has been re-released regularly since 1994 and remains an important part of sneaker culture, with countless collaborations and re-releases over the years.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Brand | Nike |
| Model | Air Jordan III, later re-released as Jordan Retro 3 |
| Designer | Tinker Hatfield |
| Materials | Tumbled leather, rubber |
| Features | Visible Air unit in the heel, low-profile Air unit in the forefoot, Jumpman logo on the tongue, removable Durapontex sockliner, Cupsole in the heel, elephant print |
| Colours | Black, white |
| Price | $123.97-$200 |
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What You'll Learn
Jordan Retro 3 performance review
Jordan Retro 3 is a re-release of the Air Jordan III, the third instalment of Michael Jordan's signature shoe line with Nike. The original Air Jordan III was designed by Tinker Hatfield, who had previously designed the Nike Air Max running shoe and the Nike Air Trainer. The shoe was first released in 1988 and has been re-released regularly since 1994.
Performance Review:
The Jordan Retro 3 has received mixed reviews for its performance. On the positive side, the shoe is praised for its traction, with reviewers noting that it performs well during rapid movements and direction changes. The shoe's tumbled leather upper also provides a luxury look and feel, and the visible Air unit in the heel adds a hint of technological prowess. The removable Durapontex sockliner provides a supportive fit and helps minimize heat build-up.
However, one of the main drawbacks of the shoe is its lack of ventilation. While there are perforations, they don't go all the way through the material, leading to heat and moisture build-up during play. The forefoot of the shoe has also been criticized for being unable to handle the torque applied during quick movements, resulting in a slight slipping sensation. Additionally, the cushion setup may not be suitable for older players, as the polyurethane midsoles are quite dense and may not provide adequate impact absorption.
Overall, while the Jordan Retro 3 has its limitations, it is a stylish and iconic shoe that is best suited for casual wear or younger players. For older players or those seeking top-of-the-line performance, other options may provide more comfort and functionality.
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Jordan 3 design and aesthetics
Jordan 3s are known for their mid-top silhouette, balancing ankle support and flexibility, making them versatile for both on-court performance and off-court style. They were the first in the Jordan series to feature the iconic Jumpman logo on the tongue, setting a new standard in sneaker design. The Jordan 3s also introduced the unprecedented look of elephant print, which has since become a signature element, symbolizing strength and legacy in sneaker culture. The original colour-blocking designs included the ever-popular 'White Cement' and 'Black Cement', along with 'Fire Red' and 'True Blue'. The 'Black Cement' design features black, grey, and fire red accents.
The Jordan 3s have a tumbled leather upper that gives them a luxury look and feel. They also feature a visible Air unit in the heel and a low-profile Air unit in the forefoot. The arch is sculpted to provide a better fit and support while flexing the foot. The removable Durapontex sockliner provides a supportive fit that minimizes heat build-up. The outsole is made of solid rubber and features flex grooves to help the foot bend naturally.
The Jordan 3s are designed to match various outfits, from casual looks to elevated streetwear. They can be styled with jeans, joggers, chinos, or tailored trousers. For a street-ready look, they can be paired with graphic tees and layered with bomber or denim jackets. The versatility of the Jordan 3s allows for countless combinations to express one's personality and aesthetic taste.
The Jordan 3s have become a classic style statement and one of the most popular Air Jordans ever, breaking the mold in men's luxury fashion. They have a bold and stylish design, with colourways that continue to hold strong in today's fashion, making them a timeless and retro choice.
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Jordan 3's place in sneaker culture
The Air Jordan 3 is an iconic shoe in the history of sneaker culture. Originally released in 1988, the shoe was the first design by Tinker Hatfield, who would go on to collaborate with the Jordan brand for three decades. The Air Jordan 3 was also the first Jordan shoe to feature a visible Air unit in the heel and a low-profile Air unit in the forefoot, adding a technological element to the shoe's design. The use of tumbled leather gave the shoe a luxurious look and feel, while the now-iconic elephant print that wrapped around the toe and heel provided a unique, exotic touch. The Jordan logo was also prominently featured on the tongue of the shoe, becoming a symbol of greatness and excellence.
The Air Jordan 3 is significant in sneaker culture because it represents the collaboration between Michael Jordan and Nike, which is often considered the most important partnership in the industry. At the time of the Air Jordan 3's design, Jordan's contract with Nike was up for renewal, and he was considering walking away from the brand. However, Hatfield's innovative design impressed Jordan, and the Air Jordan 3 became a pivotal moment in the ongoing collaboration between the two parties.
The shoe has been regularly re-released as the Jordan Retro 3 since 1994 and has received countless collaborations and new editions. The Retro 3 revives the details that made the original great, such as the tumbled leather upper, visible Air units, and iconic elephant print. The shoe has also been adapted for different sports, with the Jordan 3 Mid TD and Jordan 3 Retro MCS designed for football and baseball, respectively.
The Air Jordan 3 has had a lasting impact on sneaker culture, with its design and collaborations helping to shape the industry. The shoe's popularity has endured for over three decades, and it remains an integral part of the Jordan brand's legacy. The Air Jordan 3 is also a testament to the influence of Michael Jordan and Nike on sneaker culture, with their partnership continuing to produce iconic designs that resonate with fans and collectors worldwide.
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Jordan 3's history
The Air Jordan 3 is the third signature sneaker in the Nike Air Jordan series. The shoe was first released in 1988, designed by Tinker Hatfield, and retailed for $100. The Air Jordan 3 is significant in the history of the Air Jordan series as it introduced the world to the Jumpman logo, which was inspired by a 1984 image of Michael Jordan jumping in the air for a dunk. The shoe also featured a visible Air unit in the heel, a low-profile Air unit in the forefoot, and an iconic elephant print on the upper. The Jordan Retro 3 has been re-released regularly since 1994, with various colourways, including 'White Cement', 'Black Cement', 'Fire Red', and 'True Blue'.
At the time of the Air Jordan 3's design, Michael Jordan was considering leaving Nike. Jordan was initially reluctant to meet with Hatfield, arriving late to the initial presentation meeting after golfing with departed Nike executives. However, Hatfield's design ultimately convinced Jordan to stay with Nike. The Air Jordan 3 was heavily influenced by Jordan's own input, resulting in a three-fourths "mid" cut that allowed for greater ankle movement.
The Air Jordan 3 has been re-released multiple times since its original launch, with various colourways and collaborations. The 2016 retro version saw the return of the "Nike Air" branding on the heel, which had been replaced with Jumpman branding on earlier versions. The Air Jordan 3 'Mocha' was the first non-OG colourway released into the sneaker market without an on-court appearance, featuring a clean white base with Mocha overlay panelling. The Air Jordan 3 'Flip', released in 2007, stood out for its reversed elephant print design.
The Air Jordan 3 has had a lasting impact on the sneaker industry, with its state-of-the-art design and comfort on the courts. It has been re-released and reimagined multiple times, with new colourways and collaborations, solidifying its status as one of the greatest sneakers of all time.
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Jordan 3's comfort and fit
The Air Jordan 3 is a very popular sneaker, but opinions vary on its comfort and fit. Some people find them comfortable, with one reviewer saying they are \"very comfortable right out of the box\" and that they have \"step-in comfort\". The soft materials and cushioning also contribute to their comfort. Another reviewer says that the Air Jordan 3 is one of the most comfortable silhouettes in the Air Jordan line, thanks to the cushioning around the ankles and the bouncy Air unit. The Air Jordan 3 is also said to have a supportive fit that minimises heat build-up.
However, others find that the Air Jordan 3 is not the most comfortable sneaker on the market, especially compared to newer models. Some reviewers say that the Air Jordan 3 feels like "bricks on your feet", and that the sole is particularly uncomfortable. The older technology doesn't offer much cushioning, and the shoe can feel stiff. The forefoot is also unable to handle rapid direction changes, which can cause slipping.
The Air Jordan 3 is said to fit true to size, but some reviewers recommend sizing up, especially if you have wide feet. The shoe is described as bulky and narrow, and going up half a size can help alleviate discomfort for those who find the shoe too narrow.
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Frequently asked questions
Jordan 3 shoes, also known as Air Jordan III, are basketball shoes first released in 1988. They are the third instalment of Michael Jordan's signature shoe line with Nike.
The Jordan 3 shoes were designed by Tinker Hatfield and feature the now-iconic elephant print, a visible Air unit in the heel, a Jumpman logo on the tongue, and tumbled leather.
The Jordan 3 shoes are described as comfortable and adaptable, with the tumbled leather providing a high-class look and performance. However, some reviews mention that the forefoot is unable to handle quick direction changes, and the shoe lacks proper ventilation, causing heat and moisture to be trapped inside.
