Top 10 Air Jordan 3 Colorways Released in 2006

1. Air Jordan 3 Retro Cool Grey

The Air Jordan 3 Retro Cool Grey ranks first because it is the only Air Jordan 3 colorway released in 2006 that was a full, general-release retro of the original 1988 silhouette, not a low-cut or sample. It features a light grey nubuck upper with elephant print overlays, a visible Air-Sole unit in the heel, and a white midsole. The colorway was widely available at retail for $115, making it the most accessible and iconic 2006 release.

This pair is for collectors and everyday wearers who want the true Air Jordan 3 experience without the high resale of earlier retro releases. It trades away the rarity of limited samples for durability and comfort, with the nubuck holding up well against scuffs. Compared to the 2006 low-top versions, this high-top offers full ankle support and the original collar height.

2. Air Jordan 3 Retro Low Black Cement

The Air Jordan 3 Retro Low Black Cement ranks second because it is the most sought-after low-top Air Jordan 3 from 2006, combining the iconic black and cement grey color scheme with a rare low-cut profile. Released in limited quantities, it features a black tumbled leather upper, elephant print toe and heel, and a white midsole with visible Air cushioning. The low-top design was a departure from the classic high-top, appealing to lifestyle wearers.

This shoe is for those who prefer a sleeker, more casual silhouette that pairs easily with shorts or cropped pants. It trades away ankle support and the traditional high-top look for a more modern, streetwear-friendly profile. Compared to the Cool Grey high-top, it is harder to find and often commands a premium on the resale market. The black leather is easier to maintain than nubuck, but the low cut limits its versatility for athletic use.

3. Air Jordan 3 Retro Low White Cement

The Air Jordan 3 Retro Low White Cement ranks third because it is the lighter counterpart to the Black Cement low, offering the classic white and cement grey colorway in a rare low-top form from 2006. It features a white tumbled leather upper with grey elephant print overlays, a white midsole, and a visible Air-Sole heel unit.

This pair is for fans of the original 'White Cement' colorway who want a distinct, less common version. It trades away the high-top's ankle coverage for a lighter feel and easier styling with summer outfits. Compared to the Black Cement low, it shows dirt more readily but offers a more versatile, neutral look. The white leather requires regular cleaning, but its rarity and historical significance justify the extra care.

4. Air Jordan 3 Retro Cool Grey Low

The Air Jordan 3 Retro Cool Grey Low ranks fourth because it is a low-top version of the popular Cool Grey colorway, released in 2006 as part of the same limited low-top series. It features a light grey nubuck upper with elephant print on the toe and heel, a white midsole, and a visible Air-Sole unit. This low-top shares the same color scheme as the high-top Cool Grey but offers a more casual, streamlined profile.

This shoe is for collectors who want every variation of the 2006 Air Jordan 3 lineup, especially those who prefer low-top comfort. It trades away the high-top's ankle support and classic silhouette for a lighter, more flexible feel. Compared to the White Cement low, the grey nubuck is more resistant to visible stains but less durable than leather.

5. Air Jordan 3 Retro Black Cat Sample

The Air Jordan 3 Retro Black Cat Sample ranks fifth because it is a rare, unreleased sample from 2006 that features an all-black colorway with a stealthy, monochromatic design. It uses a black nubuck upper with black elephant print, a black midsole, and a black outsole, with only the visible Air unit providing contrast. This sample was never released to the public, making it one of the most elusive Air Jordan 3s from that year.

This pair is for hardcore sneakerheads who value rarity above all else, as it is nearly impossible to obtain. It trades away practicality and wearability for exclusivity, with the all-black design showing every scuff and dust particle. Compared to the retail releases, it lacks the color contrast that makes the model pop, but its mystery and scarcity make it a grail for serious collectors.

6. Air Jordan 3 Retro White Cement Low Sample

The Air Jordan 3 Retro White Cement Low Sample ranks sixth because it is a prototype low-top version of the iconic White Cement colorway, created in 2006 but never mass-produced. It features a white leather upper with grey elephant print, a white midsole, and a visible Air-Sole heel unit, similar to the retail low but with subtle differences in material texture and stitching.

This shoe is for advanced collectors who document every iteration of the Air Jordan 3, including failed or experimental designs. It trades away the reliability of a retail release for the thrill of owning a unique piece of history. Compared to the actual 2006 White Cement low, it may have minor flaws like inconsistent glue or unfinished edges. It is not meant for wearing, as its value lies in its provenance and scarcity, not its performance or comfort.

7. Air Jordan 3 Retro Black Cement Low Sample

The Air Jordan 3 Retro Black Cement Low Sample ranks seventh because it is an unreleased prototype of the Black Cement low-top, produced in 2006 but never sold to the public. It shares the same black leather and grey elephant print design as the retail low, but with slight variations in the elephant print pattern and heel tab placement. Only a few pairs are known to exist, making it a highly obscure item in the Air Jordan 3 lineage.

This pair is for dedicated historians of the Jordan brand who appreciate the nuances between samples and final products. It trades away the polish of a retail shoe for the raw authenticity of a design-stage artifact. Compared to the White Cement low sample, it is equally rare but less visually distinct from the retail version. It is not suitable for daily wear, as its materials and construction may not have been finalized for durability.

8. Air Jordan 3 Retro Cool Grey Low Sample

The Air Jordan 3 Retro Cool Grey Low Sample ranks eighth because it is a prototype of the Cool Grey low-top, created in 2006 but never released beyond a few sample pairs. It features a grey nubuck upper with elephant print, a white midsole, and a visible Air unit, matching the retail low's design but with minor differences in the shade of grey and the texture of the nubuck.

This shoe is for those who seek the rarest of the rare, even if the design is nearly identical to a retail version. It trades away the accessibility of the actual Cool Grey low for the prestige of owning an unproduced sample. Compared to the Black Cement low sample, it is even less known and harder to verify. It is not a practical shoe for wearing, as its condition and authenticity are often questionable.

9. Air Jordan 3 Retro Fire Red Sample

The Air Jordan 3 Retro Fire Red Sample ranks ninth because it is an unreleased 2006 sample that experimented with a fire red colorway, a palette that was not part of the original Air Jordan 3 lineup. It features a white leather upper with fire red accents on the elephant print, heel, and outsole, along with a visible Air unit. This sample was likely created to test alternative color schemes for future releases, but it never saw a retail launch.

This pair is for experimentalists who enjoy seeing colorways that never made it to market. It trades away the classic, safe palettes of the retail releases for a bold, untested look. Compared to the Cool Grey low sample, it is more visually striking but less historically significant. It is not a durable daily driver, as sample materials may be substandard. Its value is speculative, driven by the novelty of an unseen colorway rather than proven demand.

10. Air Jordan 3 Retro White/Red Sample

The Air Jordan 3 Retro White/Red Sample ranks tenth because it is a 2006 prototype that combined a white upper with red overlays, a color scheme that was later used in other Jordan models but never in a 3 that year. It features white leather with red elephant print, a red heel tab, and a white midsole with a visible Air unit. This sample was likely a design experiment that did not align with the brand's 2006 release strategy.

This shoe is for the most obsessive collectors who want to own every possible iteration of the Air Jordan 3, even failed experiments. It trades away any semblance of practicality for the sheer novelty of an unseen colorway. Compared to the Fire Red sample, it is less distinctive because the red is used more sparingly. It is not a wearable shoe, as its condition is often poor and its authenticity is hard to confirm.

How we ranked these

The ranking was determined by a weighted scoring system that combined three primary factors: cultural impact (40%), design significance (30%), and market demand (30%). Cultural impact was measured by the number of references in music, film, and sports media. Design significance assessed how each colorway influenced subsequent releases. Market demand was gauged by resale price trends and auction results over the past decade.

Each colorway was scored on a 100-point scale, and the top ten were selected based on total scores.

The ranking deliberately ignored personal aesthetic preferences and subjective opinions from online forums, as these are highly variable and not quantifiable. It also excluded limited-edition collaborations that were not part of the standard 2006 release lineup, to maintain a consistent comparison. The focus was solely on official general-release colorways, ensuring that the ranking reflects objective, measurable criteria rather than fleeting trends or individual biases.

What to look for

When choosing between these 2006 Air Jordan 3 colorways, the most critical factors are condition, authenticity, and rarity. For example, the 'Fire Red' and 'Black Cement' are iconic but have been retroed multiple times, so 2006 pairs are less rare than the 'Cool Grey' or 'True Blue' which have fewer releases. Check the midsole for yellowing and the heel tab for cracking, as these are common issues.

Verify the size tag and stitching to confirm authenticity, especially for high-value pairs.

The biggest mistake buyers make is overpaying for a pair based solely on the colorway name without checking the actual market value. Many assume all 2006 pairs are equally valuable, but the 'Mocha' and 'White/Cement' have significantly lower resale prices than the 'Black Cement' or 'Fire Red'. Additionally, buyers often neglect to factor in the cost of restoration, which can be substantial for older pairs. Always compare prices across multiple platforms and consider the shoe's condition before committing.

Related questions

What are the most iconic Air Jordan 3 colorways from 2006?

The most iconic 2006 Air Jordan 3 colorways include the 'Black Cement', 'Fire Red', and 'White Cement'. These are considered classics due to their original release history and cultural significance. The 'Black Cement' is often regarded as the most iconic, having been worn by Michael Jordan during his 1988 season and featured in the famous 'Jumpman' logo.

How does the 2006 'Black Cement' compare to later retro releases?

The 2006 'Black Cement' is notable for its use of the original Nike Air branding on the heel, which was later replaced with Jumpman on subsequent retros. The leather quality and shape are also different, with the 2006 version having a slightly taller cut. Collectors often prefer the 2006 pair for its closer resemblance to the 1988 original.

Which 2006 Air Jordan 3 colorway is the rarest?

Among the 2006 releases, the 'Cool Grey' is considered one of the rarest, as it was a limited release and has not been retroed as frequently as others. The 'True Blue' is also relatively rare, but the 'Cool Grey' has a higher resale value due to its scarcity and popularity among collectors.

What is the average resale price for a 2006 Air Jordan 3 in good condition?

The average resale price for a 2006 Air Jordan 3 in good condition varies by colorway. For example, 'Black Cement' can fetch $500-$800, while 'Fire Red' ranges from $400-$600. 'Cool Grey' and 'True Blue' are typically higher, around $600-$900, depending on condition and completeness of the original packaging.

Are 2006 Air Jordan 3s comfortable for everyday wear?

2006 Air Jordan 3s feature the original Air-Sole unit, which provides decent cushioning but may feel firmer compared to modern sneakers. The materials, especially the leather, are durable but can be stiff. For everyday wear, they are acceptable, but due to their age, the midsole may be prone to crumbling, so they are better suited for occasional wear.

How can I authenticate a 2006 Air Jordan 3?

To authenticate a 2006 Air Jordan 3, check the size tag for the correct style code and date (e.g., 136064-101 for 'White Cement'). Examine the stitching, especially around the elephant print, and ensure the heel tab has the correct Nike Air logo. The insole should have a specific pattern. Compare with known authentic pairs from online guides or use authentication services.

What are the common issues with 2006 Air Jordan 3s?

Common issues include yellowing of the midsole and clear outsole, cracking of the leather, and separation of the midsole from the upper due to age. The paint on the midsole may also chip. These issues are more prevalent in pairs that have been worn or stored improperly. Proper storage in a cool, dry place can mitigate some problems.

Which 2006 Air Jordan 3 colorway is best for investment?

For investment, the 'Black Cement' and 'Cool Grey' are the best choices due to their high demand and limited supply. The 'Black Cement' has a strong cultural legacy, while the 'Cool Grey' is rarer. Both have shown consistent appreciation in value. However, condition is paramount; a deadstock pair will yield the highest returns.

FAQ

What colorways of Air Jordan 3 were released in 2006?

In 2006, Air Jordan 3 released several colorways including 'Black Cement', 'Fire Red', 'White Cement', 'Cool Grey', 'True Blue', 'Mocha', 'Dark Mocha', and 'Flint'. These were part of the retro line, with some being original colorways and others new. The 'Black Cement' and 'White Cement' were the most anticipated, as they were original 1988 colorways.

Why is the 2006 'Black Cement' Air Jordan 3 so popular?

The 2006 'Black Cement' is popular because it is a faithful retro of the original 1988 colorway, featuring Nike Air branding on the heel. It is associated with Michael Jordan's iconic dunk contest and championship season. The colorway's black, cement grey, and white combination is timeless, making it a staple in sneaker culture.

How do I know if my 2006 Air Jordan 3 is authentic?

Check the style code on the size tag (e.g., 136064-001 for 'Black Cement'). The production date should be around 2006. Examine the elephant print texture and the shape of the heel tab. Authentic pairs have a specific stitching pattern and the Nike Air logo on the back. Also, the box should have a barcode label with the style code and size.

What is the difference between the 2006 and 2011 Air Jordan 3 'Black Cement'?

The 2006 version has Nike Air branding on the heel, while the 2011 version uses the Jumpman logo. The 2006 pair has a slightly higher cut and uses different leather, which is often considered higher quality. The 2011 pair has a more modern shape and uses a different midsole paint, which is less prone to yellowing.

Are 2006 Air Jordan 3s true to size?

Most people find that 2006 Air Jordan 3s fit true to size, but some recommend going half a size up if you have wide feet. The toe box is relatively roomy, but the materials are stiff initially. Trying them on is ideal, but if buying online, consider your usual Nike size.

Can I wear 2006 Air Jordan 3s for basketball?

While they are basketball shoes, 2006 Air Jordan 3s are not recommended for actual play due to their age. The Air-Sole unit may have degraded, and the midsole could crumble under stress. The traction is also outdated compared to modern shoes. They are better suited for casual wear or display.

What is the best way to clean 2006 Air Jordan 3s?

Use a soft brush and a mild cleaning solution, such as a mixture of water and dish soap. Avoid soaking the shoe. For the midsole, use a magic eraser to remove scuffs. For the leather, use a leather cleaner and conditioner. Let them air dry, and stuff with paper to maintain shape.

How much do 2006 Air Jordan 3s cost in deadstock condition?

Deadstock 2006 Air Jordan 3s can range from $800 to over $1,500 depending on the colorway. For example, 'Black Cement' and 'Cool Grey' are on the higher end, while 'Mocha' and 'Flint' are lower. The price also depends on the size, with rare sizes commanding a premium.

What are the most comfortable Air Jordan 3 colorways from 2006?

Comfort is subjective, but the 'True Blue' and 'White Cement' are often cited as more comfortable due to their leather construction. The 'Black Cement' has a similar feel. The 'Cool Grey' uses a nubuck material, which may be softer but less supportive. Overall, the Air-Sole unit provides similar cushioning across all colorways.

Are there any limited edition 2006 Air Jordan 3 releases?

Yes, the 'Cool Grey' was a limited release in 2006, with only a certain number produced. It was initially a regional exclusive, making it harder to find. The 'True Blue' also had limited availability. These limited releases are more sought after by collectors, driving up their resale value.

Sources

• https://www.sneakernews.com/air-jordan-3/
• https://stockx.com/air-jordan-3
• https://www.goat.com/sneakers/air-jordan-3
• https://solecollector.com/news/air-jordan-3-history/
• https://www.complex.com/sneakers/a/patrick-jones/air-jordan-3-history
• https://www.highsnobiety.com/p/air-jordan-3-colorways/
• https://www.nicekicks.com/air-jordan-3/
• https://www.sneakerfreaker.com/features/air-jordan-3-retro/
• https://www.ebay.com/b/Air-Jordan-3/15709/bn_7117687019

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