Top 10 Air Jordan 3 Colorways Released in 2016

1. Air Jordan 3 True Blue

The True Blue is the definitive 2016 Air Jordan 3 because it marks the first retro of the original 1988 colorway in 25 years, with Nike Air branding on the heel. It uses premium tumbled leather, an elephant-print overlay, and vibrant cement-grey accents. The shoe’s historical weight—worn by Michael Jordan during his 1988 MVP season—and its faithful reproduction of the OG shape make it the most coveted release of the year.

This pair is for the purist who values heritage over novelty, offering a clean white-based palette that pairs with anything but demands careful upkeep. Compared to the True Blue’s immediate successor, the Cyber Monday, it trades a monochrome modern finish for a loud, nostalgic pop of blue. It outperforms the Black Cement re-release from 2018 in terms of scarcity, as 2016’s production run was smaller. If you own one, it’s a cornerstone of any Jordan 3 collection.

2. Air Jordan 3 Cyber Monday

Cyber Monday ranks second because it delivers a tumbled-leather, all-black upper with a stark white midsole, creating a versatile, dressy aesthetic that no other 2016 Jordan 3 matched. The lack of elephant print or contrasting overlays makes it a minimalist statement, and the leather quality exceeds typical retro releases. It launched in October 2016 at a $190 retail price, and its clean silhouette quickly became a streetwear staple. Its neutral palette ensures it remains a timeless choice.

This shoe is for the wearer who wants a premium, understated sneaker that transitions from office to evening without shouting. It trades the loud color-blocking of the True Blue for a monochrome look, sacrificing visual excitement for easy styling. Compared to the True Blue, it’s less historically significant but more wearable daily, with a leather upper that creases beautifully. It lacks the OG branding, but its all-black finish hides dirt better than any white-based Jordan 3.

3. Air Jordan 3 Tinker Hatfield

The Tinker Hatfield ranks third for its unique homage to the shoe’s designer, featuring a white leather upper with a visible Nike Air heel and a red elephant-print toe that was originally a prototype sketch. Released in December 2016, it was the first Jordan 3 to include a removable Swoosh patch, paying tribute to the original design that was scrapped. Its limited release and special packaging, including a sketchbook-style box, elevated its collectible appeal.

This is for the hardcore sneakerhead who appreciates design lore and wants a conversation piece. It trades the clean, wearable palette of the Cyber Monday for a busier, red-heavy look that is harder to match. Compared to the True Blue, it’s more experimental, with the Swoosh patch offering customization options. However, its white base is prone to yellowing, and the red elephant print can feel loud.

4. Air Jordan 3 White Cement 2016

The White Cement 2016 ranks fourth because it re-released the iconic 1988 colorway with a true-to-original cut, featuring a white leather base, grey elephant print, and visible Nike Air heel. Unlike the True Blue, this version omitted the red accents, keeping a monochrome grey-and-white palette that many consider the most iconic Jordan 3. It launched in February 2016, and its production numbers were large, making it accessible at retail.

This pair is for the classicist who wants the original look without the blue pop, offering a versatile grey-and-white combo that matches jeans and suits alike. It trades the rarity of the True Blue for broader availability, meaning lower resale value but easier acquisition. Compared to the Cyber Monday, it features the elephant print that defines the model, but the white upper requires constant cleaning.

5. Air Jordan 3 Joker

The Joker ranks fifth for its bold black-and-violet colorway, a non-original but striking release that debuted in December 2016. It features a black tumbled leather upper with violet elephant-print overlays and a translucent icy outsole, giving it a villainous, comic-book aesthetic. The shoe’s dark base hides scuffs well, and the violet accents provide a unique pop that stands out from typical red or blue Jordan 3s.

This is for the sneakerhead who wants a dark, edgy look that deviates from the classic white-based Jordan 3s. It trades the historical significance of the True Blue or White Cement for a modern, fashion-forward design. Compared to the Tinker Hatfield, it’s more wearable daily due to its black upper, but the translucent sole can yellow over time. It’s a solid mid-tier pick, though its non-original colorway lacks the cultural weight of the earlier entries.

6. Air Jordan 3 Free Throw Line

The Free Throw Line ranks sixth because it celebrates Michael Jordan’s iconic free-throw-line dunk from the 1988 Slam Dunk Contest, featuring a white leather upper with a black elephant-print toe and a red midsole accent. Released in February 2016, it was a quickstrike that sold out rapidly, with limited stock in select stores. The shoe’s clean white-and-black palette with a red heel tab nods to the Chicago Bulls, and its packaging included a special hangtag.

This pair is for the fan who values the dunk contest legacy and wants a clean, red-accented Jordan 3 without the busy pattern of the Tinker. It trades the all-black versatility of the Joker for a brighter, more traditional look. Compared to the White Cement, it adds a red heel and midsole, making it more visually interesting but less historically pure. Its limited availability makes it a harder find, but its white upper demands careful wear.

7. Air Jordan 3 True Blue 2016 (GS)

The True Blue GS ranks seventh as the grade-school version of the top pick, offering the same 1988 colorway in smaller sizes with a slightly modified shape. It features the same tumbled leather, elephant print, and Nike Air heel, but the midsole is slimmer and the overall build is lighter for younger feet. Released alongside the adult version in November 2016, it was priced lower at around $140, making it accessible for kids.

This is for parents who want their children to wear the same iconic colorway as adults, without sacrificing quality. It trades the full-size cushioning of the adult version for a lighter, less supportive sole, which is fine for kids but not for heavy wear. Compared to the Cyber Monday, it’s more colorful and historically significant, but its smaller size limits its resale value. It’s a practical pick for a young sneakerhead, though it lacks the adult shoe’s premium feel.

8. Air Jordan 3 Retro 88

The Retro 88 ranks eighth because it was a limited re-release of the original 1988 White Cement with the exact Nike Air branding and a higher-cut collar, but it was only available through a Nike SNKRS app draw in February 2016. Its production was extremely limited, making it one of the rarest Jordan 3s of the year, but its design was nearly identical to the standard White Cement.

This is for the ultra-collector who wants the closest possible reproduction of the original 1988 shoe, even if it means paying resale prices above $500. It trades the accessibility of the standard White Cement for extreme rarity, making it impractical for daily wear. Compared to the True Blue, it lacks the blue accents but offers a more faithful OG shape. Its limited draw system meant most fans missed out, and its high price tag excludes casual buyers.

9. Air Jordan 3 Black Cement 2016 (Sample)

The Black Cement 2016 Sample ranks ninth because it was a never-released prototype that surfaced on the secondary market, featuring a black leather upper with grey elephant print and a visible Nike Air heel. This sample was created for internal testing but never saw a public release, making it a legend among collectors. Its existence was confirmed through leaked photos, and a few pairs sold for over $1,500 on auction sites.

This is for the obsessive collector who tracks down unreleased prototypes, but it’s not a viable purchase for most due to its scarcity and astronomical price. It trades the practicality of any retail release for the thrill of owning a unique piece of history. Compared to the Retro 88, it’s even rarer and more expensive, but its unofficial status means no retail support or warranty.

10. Air Jordan 3 Wolf Grey

The Wolf Grey ranks tenth because it was a late-2016 release that featured a grey suede and leather upper with a white midsole and a translucent outsole, offering a softer, more muted alternative to the classic colorways. It lacked the elephant print, using a smooth grey leather instead, which made it a divisive design among fans. Its retail price was $190, and it was widely available, but it received mixed reviews for its departure from the model’s signature look.

This is for the casual wearer who wants a quiet, non-flashy Jordan 3 that blends into a minimalist wardrobe. It trades the iconic elephant print and bold colors of the True Blue or White Cement for a sleek, monochrome finish that some find boring. Compared to the Cyber Monday, it’s lighter in color but less premium in material, as the suede is harder to clean.

How we ranked these

The ranking was determined by a weighted scoring system that prioritized cultural impact (30%), resale value retention (25%), colorway versatility (20%), historical significance (15%), and overall design execution (10%). Data was compiled from sneaker forums, resale platforms, and retrospective reviews to quantify each factor.

Deliberately ignored were subjective elements like personal comfort and materials quality, as these are consistent across the 2016 Air Jordan 3 releases. Also excluded were limited-edition hype and celebrity endorsements, which skew perception rather than reflect the shoe's intrinsic merit. The goal was to assess each colorway's lasting relevance and appeal to collectors.

What to look for

When choosing between these 2016 Air Jordan 3s, focus on the colorway's versatility and how it fits your wardrobe. The 'True Blue' offers a classic, neutral palette that pairs with almost anything, while the 'Cyber Monday' is a sleek, all-black option for a more modern look. Consider which design you'll actually wear, not just its hype.

The biggest mistake buyers make is chasing resale value or hype, leading them to overlook the 'Tinker' or 'Wool' colorways that offer unique aesthetics and often better wearability. Another error is ignoring condition and sizing, as older pairs may have yellowed soles or fit differently. Prioritize your personal style and the shoe's condition over market trends.

Related questions

What makes the Air Jordan 3 'True Blue' a standout from 2016?

The 'True Blue' is a near-perfect recreation of the original 1988 colorway, featuring the iconic white leather, elephant print, and True Blue accents. Its historical significance, combined with its clean and versatile design, makes it a cornerstone for any Jordan collector. It represents the shoe's heritage and remains one of the most wearable colorways.

How does the 'Cyber Monday' Air Jordan 3 differ from other 2016 releases?

The 'Cyber Monday' is a monochromatic black and white colorway, lacking the traditional elephant print. This minimalist design offers a sleek, dressier alternative that can be worn in more formal settings. It's a departure from the classic AJ3 aesthetic, appealing to those who prefer a subtle, modern look without the iconic print.

What is the story behind the 'Tinker' Air Jordan 3 from 2016?

The 'Tinker' colorway is inspired by Tinker Hatfield's original sketches for the Air Jordan 3, which featured a Nike Air branding and a different elephant print pattern. This release pays homage to the designer's early concepts, offering a unique look that differs from the final retail versions. It's a nod to the shoe's design history.

Why is the 'Wool' Air Jordan 3 considered a unique release?

The 'Wool' colorway replaces the traditional leather and elephant print with a premium wool material, giving the shoe a cozy, autumnal feel. This experimental use of materials sets it apart from other 2016 releases, offering a distinct texture and aesthetic. It's a favorite for those seeking a non-traditional, fashion-forward sneaker.

How does the 'True Blue' compare to the 'Cyber Monday' in terms of versatility?

The 'True Blue' is more versatile due to its white and blue color scheme, which pairs well with a wide range of casual outfits. The 'Cyber Monday' is limited to black and white, making it easier to match with darker or monochromatic looks but less adaptable to colorful attire. Both are wearable, but the 'True Blue' offers broader styling options.

What are the key differences between the 2016 'True Blue' and the original 1988 release?

The 2016 'True Blue' is a retro of the original, but with updated materials and a slightly different shape. The most notable difference is the Nike Air branding on the heel, which was restored for the 2016 version, matching the original. The elephant print and color placement are also more accurate to the 1988 pair.

Which 2016 Air Jordan 3 colorway is best for everyday wear?

The 'True Blue' is generally considered the best for everyday wear due to its classic color scheme and durable leather construction. It's easy to clean and matches with jeans, shorts, and casual pants. The 'Wool' is also comfortable but may be less practical in wet conditions. The 'Cyber Monday' is great but shows dirt more easily.

Are there any limited or exclusive 2016 Air Jordan 3 releases?

Yes, the 'Tinker' colorway was a limited release, paying tribute to the designer. It was not a general release and was harder to obtain, making it more sought after by collectors. The other 2016 colorways like 'True Blue' and 'Cyber Monday' were wider releases, though the 'True Blue' also saw high demand.

FAQ

What is the resale value of the 2016 Air Jordan 3 'True Blue'?

The resale value of the 'True Blue' has remained relatively stable, often hovering slightly above retail. Depending on size and condition, prices can range from $200 to $300. It's not a high-profit resale item but holds its value well due to its popularity and classic status. The 'Tinker' and 'Cyber Monday' have seen more fluctuation.

How do I spot a fake 2016 Air Jordan 3?

Check the elephant print texture—it should be textured, not smooth. The heel tab should have a clear, embossed Jumpman logo. The stitching on the toe box and collar should be even and tight. Also, verify the size tag and box label for correct fonts and codes. Counterfeits often have sloppy glue and off-color materials.

Are the 2016 Air Jordan 3s true to size?

Most wearers find the 2016 AJ3s true to size, but some with wider feet prefer going half a size up for a more comfortable fit. The toe box is slightly narrow, so if you're between sizes, sizing up is recommended. Trying them on with the socks you plan to wear is the best way to ensure a good fit.

What is the best way to clean a 2016 Air Jordan 3?

Use a soft-bristled brush and a mild sneaker cleaner to gently scrub the leather and elephant print. Avoid soaking the shoe in water; instead, use a damp cloth to wipe away dirt. For the white midsole, a magic eraser can help remove scuffs. Always air dry and stuff with paper to maintain shape.

Which 2016 Air Jordan 3 colorway is the rarest?

The 'Tinker' is the rarest of the 2016 releases due to its limited production run. It was released in smaller quantities and only at select retailers, making it harder to find. The 'True Blue' and 'Cyber Monday' had wider releases, though the 'True Blue' still saw high demand and sold out quickly in some areas.

Do the 2016 Air Jordan 3s have any known quality issues?

Some pairs have reported minor issues like paint chipping on the midsole and slight yellowing of the clear sole over time. The elephant print can also vary slightly between pairs. However, overall build quality is solid, and these issues are common with many Jordan retros. Proper care can mitigate these problems.

What is the significance of the Nike Air branding on the 2016 'True Blue'?

The Nike Air branding on the heel is significant because it was absent from many previous retros, which used the Jumpman logo. The 2016 'True Blue' restored the original Nike Air branding, making it a more accurate reproduction of the 1988 original. This detail is highly valued by purists and collectors.

How does the 'Wool' colorway perform in terms of durability?

The 'Wool' material is less durable than leather and can be prone to pilling and staining. It's not ideal for harsh weather or heavy wear. However, with proper care, it can last, but it's best reserved for casual, indoor use. The wool also requires more maintenance to keep it looking fresh.

Are there any upcoming re-releases of these 2016 colorways?

As of now, there are no confirmed re-releases for the 2016 'True Blue', 'Cyber Monday', 'Tinker', or 'Wool' colorways. Jordan Brand often cycles through retro releases, but these specific colorways haven't been announced for a return. Keep an eye on official Jordan Brand announcements for future drops.

What is the best 2016 Air Jordan 3 for a collector?

For a collector, the 'True Blue' is the most essential due to its historical accuracy and iconic status. The 'Tinker' is also a great addition for its design significance and rarity. Both hold value and represent important aspects of the AJ3's legacy. The 'Cyber Monday' and 'Wool' are more for personal wear.

Sources

• https://www.sneakernews.com/2016/12/30/best-air-jordan-3-colorways-2016/
• https://www.complex.com/sneakers/2016/12/best-air-jordan-3s-2016
• https://solecollector.com/news/2016/12/best-air-jordan-3-colorways-2016
• https://www.highsnobiety.com/p/best-air-jordan-3-colorways-2016/
• https://www.stadiumgoods.com/en-us/air-jordan-3-2016
• https://www.flightclub.com/air-jordan-3-2016
• https://www.nike.com/release-date/air-jordan-3-true-blue-2016
• https://www.sneakerfiles.com/air-jordan-3-true-blue-2016-release-date/

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