The Jordan 3 sneakers were first released in 1988, and they marked a significant turning point in the history of the Jordan line. Designed by Tinker Hatfield, the Jordan 3 was the first shoe in the series to feature the now-iconic Jumpman logo, and it was also the first shoe to feature visible air cushioning technology.
The design of the Jordan 3 was inspired by Michael Jordan's own love of luxury cars, and the shoe features distinctive details such as the elephant print pattern on the upper and the Jumpman logo on the tongue. The shoe also introduced a new mid-top design, which provided additional support and protection for the ankle.
Despite its bold design and innovative features, the Jordan 3 was not an immediate success. Nike had been struggling financially at the time of the shoe's release, and many retailers were hesitant to stock it. However, the shoe's fortunes changed when Spike Lee featured it prominently in his film "Do the Right Thing," and sales began to pick up.
Over the years, the Jordan 3 has become one of the most beloved and iconic sneakers of all time. It has been released in countless colorways and collaborations, and it remains a popular choice for both basketball players and sneaker enthusiasts.
One of the most famous colorways of the Jordan 3 is the "Black/Cement" version, which Michael Jordan wore during the 1988 NBA All-Star Game. This shoe has since become one of the most sought-after sneakers in the world, and it is considered by many to be a holy grail of sneaker collecting.
In recent years, Jordan Brand has continued to release new versions of the Jordan 3, including collaborations with artists like Justin Timberlake and Tinker Hatfield himself. These releases have helped to keep the shoe fresh and relevant, and they have ensured that the Jordan 3 will continue to be a beloved piece of sneaker history for years to come.
