Air Jordan 3 OG Colorways

This article belongs to a series of articles about the OG colorways of the legendary streetwear sneaker Air Jordan.

The Air Jordan III. was as iconic as it looks. No wonder it’s Michael Jordan’s second-favorite sneaker among his signature models. The Air Jordan 3’s arrival saw many firsts for an Air Jordan model. It was the first model designed by Tinker Hatfield, who then went on to design the following models until the Air Jordan XV (he returned to design the J20 and 23, as well as some of the basketball-centric models we have today).

J3 was also the first model to utilize Nike Air Max, as well as the classic Elephant Print graphic that’s been a signature detail for the 3.

There were only four OG colorways of the Air Jordan 3. And every single one of them is considered to be a ‘holy grail’. Michael Jordan showcased his prowess in the Air Jordan 3, winning the MVP award as well as Defensive Player of the Year Award. He was also wearing the 3 when he won the 1988 Slam Dunk Contest and All-Star Game MVP.

Image: House of Heat

1. Air Jordan 3 “White/Cement Grey”

With a white leather upper, the grey elephant print graphic on the toe and the rear stood out well.

Image: Highsnobiety

2. Air Jordan 3 “Black Cement”

Considered to be the “Away” version of the first, the Black Cement boasts a black leather upper that has since then been a popular colorway that inspired some sneakers to use the same combo.

3. Air Jordan 3 “Fire Red”

Of course, Nike can’t release an Air Jordan model without the Chicago Bulls team colors. The Fire Red 3 sports accents of red on the PU midsole, ankle collar, as well as the brand logos on the tongue and heel. The elephant print adds more flair to the overall aesthetic of the shoe.

Image: Sneaker Bar Detroit

4. Air Jordan 3 “True Blue”

We all know MJ played for the University of North Carolina Tar Heels during his college years. But the Air Jordan 3 True Blue wasn’t exactly inspired by that - pretty obvious from the different hue of blue. The colorway was made to represent Team USA’s colors when an exhibition game between NBA players and Team USA happened in 1988.

MJ did wear the True Blue during his stint with the Washington Wizards.

It was the last OG colorway to release as the Air Jordan 3 re-released in 1994 for its first retro run.

These four OG colorways are widely considered to be some of the best OG colorways of all time.