Regarded as one of the most impactful Air Jordan designs, the Air Jordan 3 is often credited with saving Michael Jordan's deal with Nike. The story goes that MJ was displeased with the Jordan 2 and considered leaving the Swoosh until Tinker Hatfield introduced the AJ3, which became an instant hit. Jordan Brand has an array of exciting colorways lined up for 2025, including the Black Cat, Lucky Shorts, and Valentine's Day renditions. Initially reported by Elden Monitors and House of Heat, a new Black Military Blue colorway will be added to this lineup in Summer 2025.
A part of the Rare Air series, which includes an Air Jordan 1 for men and women and an Air Jordan 4, this Air Jordan 3 Retro comes in a black, chile red, neutral grey, military blue, and coconut milk colorway. Opposite the early mockup, this AJ 3 sports a black-based leather upper instead of nubuck. Traditional elephant print has been replaced by premium suede hits of grey wrapping around the toe and heel and making their way onto the tongue and middle eyelet section.

Military Blue, borrowed from the AJ 4, wraps around the collar, lines the inside of the tongue, and dresses a portion of the midsole. Branding details are seen in red via the Jumpman on the tongue and backward Nike Air on the back heel tab of the right shoe. An aged, Air-cushioned midsole, solid grey rubber outsole, and two sets of laces finish this pair off.
The Air Jordan 3 Retro Rare Air Black Military Blue will release on May 30, 2025, through Nike and select retailers online and in-store. Coming in full-family sizing, retail is set at $210, $160, $90, and $75, respectively. Download the Sole Retriever mobile app to stay updated on the latest releases, raffles, news, and more in the sneaker and streetwear world.
Images via Nike
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Sneakerhead from South Florida who turned his passion into a career. When not writing for Sole Retriever, I enjoy attending concerts and catching the latest movies. Email: nick@soleretriever.com