As we approach the final stretch of 2023, we know that the Jordan Brand has been putting in that extra legwork to deliver a slew of high-heat releases this year. One important anniversary that will certainly go down in Jordan's history books is the 35th birthday of the Jordan 3.
Serving quite a history that stems beyond its court origins, the Jordan 3 has been part of something extraordinary within the sneaker scene.
From its appearance on sneaker shelves across the globe to its interwoven role within inner-city gravitas, the fit has plenty to offer. And this year is certainly no exception, as we have seen the elephant-printed design come into its own, boasting a lengthy list of colour-ups that will continue to stand the test of time.
To celebrate the last leg of the model's 35th anniversary we handpick a few of our favourite Jordan 3 releases this year, so you can see what all the hype is about!
1.Air Jordan 3 ‘White Cement Reimagined’
Release Date: March 2023
Price: Starting from £190
Top Crep Selects: The leather works perfectly with Crep Protect Cure and Crep Protect Wipes
March saw the return of an inaugural classic, the Air Jordan 3 ‘White Cement’ which was first debuted on the feet of a young Michael Jordan during the 1988 Slam Dunk contest. Forming as part of the ‘Reimagined Pack’ it boasted all the OG features from its 35-year lineage; crisp white full-grain leathers, elephant-printed overlays, and the signature Nike Air gilded logo.
2. Air Jordan 3 ‘Wizards’
Release Date: April 2023
Price: Starting from £190
Top Crep Selects: The leather works perfectly with Crep Protect Cure and Crep Protect Wipes
Showcased during MJ’s 2001 season at the Washington Wizards, the Air Jordan 3 ‘Wizards’ has quite an iconography behind it. Before now, the colourway was an on-court exclusive and has adopted a close resemblance to its famed ‘True Blue’ variant. This Air Jordan 3 ‘Wizards’ iteration arrives in a premium leather base, complemented with grey hide-like printed laterals. Touches of blue add a pop of colour to the eyelets, sockliners, midsole and branded heel, while tinges of copper brown add a sophisticated completion.
3. Air Jordan 3 ‘Lucky Green’
Release Date: April 2023
Price: Starting from £140
Top Crep Selects: Leather works well with Crep Protect Cure, Starter Pack and Crep Protect Wipes
Another minimalist design that has been added to the Jordan roster, the Air Jordan 3 ‘Lucky Green’ has certainly turned heads since its debut in April 2023. Initially chartered as a women’s exclusive, the fit comes draped in earthy tones of green, paired with the silhouette's signature white leather uppers and classic aged -midsole.
4. Air Jordan 3 Retro ‘Light Orewood Brown’
Release Date: July 2023
Price: Starting from £190
Top Crep Selects: For suede use the Crep Protect Eraser, Crep Protect Spray and Crep Protect Starter Pack
Ushering in a new colourway for its 35th anniversary, the Air Jordan 3 Retro ‘Light Orewood Brown’ provided autumnal vibes to summer. Detailed in a soft brown suede, the fit offered a feel of nostalgia through the use of its dark brown elephant print overlays which draws comparison from the early 2001 ‘Mocha’ variant. Smooth suede tongues offer a plush feel up top and are branded with gold Jumpman insignias, matching the rubberised heel.
5. Air Jordan 3 x J Balvin ‘Medellín Sunset’
Release Date: September 2023
Price: Starting from £349
Top Crep Selects: The leather works perfectly with Crep Protect Cure and Crep Protect Wipes
Needless to say, it wouldn’t be an anniversary year with a high-profile Jordan 3 collaboration - cue in Reggaeton kingpin J Balvin working his magic on the lauded ‘Medellín Sunset’ addition. This vibrant partnership draws inspiration from the picturesque sunset of his beloved hometown in Columbia. Striking gradients were the subject of this exclusive release, reminiscent of the city’s breathtaking dusk skies.
Don't forget to check out our Top 10 Jordan 1 Colourways of All Time