With 2005’s rare laser-etched Air Jordan 4s set to return as a two-sneaker pack near the top of next year, another one of Michael Jordan’s iconic early sneakers is getting a similar intricately patterned expression.
The Air Jordan 3 Retro is next in line for a “Laser” treatment, with a first look revealed Monday on the feet of Boston Celtics star Jayson Tatum at an event in London. Hours later, Nike Inc.’s Jordan Brand confirmed details and offered further looks at the new style.
According to the brand, the Air Jordan 3 Laser revolves around the idea that “greatness is made up for countless details.” This is seen throughout the intricately detailed upper design, which combines many of Jordan’s most notable interests, achievements and cultural moments. The brand states that each graphic is a tribute to the many influences that helped shape the basketball legend and is designed to reveal news details with each closer look.
Aside from the laser-etched upper pattern, the white-and-brown — or more specifically, Phantom/University Red/Palomino/Sail — features a premium leather build with low-pile suede replacing the model’s signature elephant print overlays. The laser inscription is also used on the heel’s Nike Air logo, a detail which was recently seen on the luxe Air Jordan 3 Bin 23 release.
Along with the Air Jordan 3, another one of Jordan’s iconic models is expected to receive a first-of-its-kind laser treatment in the form of the Air Jordan 1 Retro Low OG. Rather than the light-colored base seen on the Air Jordan 3, the Air Jordan 1 Low is set to feature a black-based Black/Varsity Red/Summit White colorway.
The Air Jordan 3 Retro Laser is currently scheduled to be released on Aug. 22 from Nike’s Snkrs app and select Jordan Brand retailers. Retail pricing of $230 is expected and the sneaker’s colorway is JA1369-001.
