Top 10 Air Jordan 3 Colorways Released in 2000

1. Air Jordan 3 White Cement

The Air Jordan 3 White Cement is the definitive colorway of the model, and its 2000 retro release brought back the iconic elephant print and visible Air unit to a new generation. This pair features a tumbled white leather upper, grey elephant print overlays, and the classic Nike Air branding on the heel, which was a major draw for purists.

This shoe is for the collector who values heritage and clean aesthetics above all else. It trades away the durability of newer materials for the authentic feel of the original, and the white leather requires careful maintenance to keep it looking fresh. Compared to the Black Cement below, the White Cement offers a brighter, more casual look that pairs with almost any outfit, but it is more prone to yellowing and scuffs.

2. Air Jordan 3 Black Cement

The Air Jordan 3 Black Cement is a close second because of its bold, high-contrast look and its direct tie to the shoe's on-court debut in 1988. This 2000 retro features a black tumbled leather upper with the same grey elephant print overlays and a visible Air-Sole unit in the heel. The black base is more forgiving than white, hiding dirt and scuffs better, which adds to its practicality.

This pair is for those who prefer a darker, more aggressive aesthetic that still carries deep historical weight. It trades away the bright, all-white look for a stealthier profile that works well in casual and semi-formal settings. Compared to the White Cement, the Black Cement is easier to maintain and less prone to visible yellowing, but it doesn't pop as much in bright daylight.

3. Air Jordan 3 True Blue

The Air Jordan 3 True Blue earns the third spot for its unique and beloved color blocking, featuring a white leather upper with cement grey and true blue accents. This 2000 release was a highly anticipated retro of the 1988 original, and the blue hits on the midsole, heel, and tongue provide a distinctive pop of color. It ranks high because of its rarity and the strong nostalgia it evokes among fans who remember the original run.

This shoe is for the fan who wants something different from the standard black or white pairs, offering a fresh yet classic look. It trades away the monochrome simplicity of the White Cement for a more colorful, eye-catching design that may not match every outfit. Compared to the Black Cement, the True Blue is lighter and more summer-friendly, but the blue suede and leather require careful care to prevent staining.

4. Air Jordan 3 White Fire Red

The Air Jordan 3 White Fire Red is ranked fourth due to its striking use of fire red accents against a clean white leather upper. This 2000 retro brought back the classic 'Fire Red' look, with red detailing on the eyelets, midsole, and heel tab, adding a sporty energy to the silhouette. It stands out for its bold yet balanced color scheme, which is less common than the Cement pairs but equally iconic.

This pair is for the wearer who wants a touch of color without going overboard, offering a perfect middle ground between the White Cement and True Blue. It trades away the subtlety of the grey accents for a more aggressive red pop that demands attention. Compared to the True Blue, the Fire Red is more striking and easier to pair with neutral clothing, but the red can fade over time if not protected from sunlight.

5. Air Jordan 3 Cool Grey

The Air Jordan 3 Cool Grey secures the fifth position for its sleek, monochromatic grey palette that offers a modern twist on the classic silhouette. This 2000 release features a cool grey nubuck upper with darker grey elephant print overlays, creating a sophisticated and understated look. It ranks here because of its versatility and the way it updates the original design with a more contemporary, urban aesthetic.

This shoe is for the minimalist who prefers a muted, tone-on-tone look over the traditional white or black options. It trades away the iconic white leather for a more durable nubuck material that is less prone to creasing but harder to clean. Compared to the White Fire Red, the Cool Grey is far more subdued and professional, but it lacks the vibrant energy of the red accents.

6. Air Jordan 3 Dark Powder Blue

The Air Jordan 3 Dark Powder Blue ranks sixth for its unique and rarely seen color combination of white, dark powder blue, and grey. This 2000 retro was a retro of the original 'Dark Powder Blue' from 1988, featuring a white leather upper with blue elephant print overlays and matching blue accents on the heel and midsole. It earns its spot due to its rarity and the distinct, softer blue hue that sets it apart from the more common colorways.

This pair is for the collector who appreciates obscure and original colorways that aren't often re-released. It trades away the boldness of fire red or black for a gentler, more pastel-like appearance that may not appeal to everyone. Compared to the Cool Grey, the Dark Powder Blue is more colorful and playful, but it is also harder to match with certain outfits.

7. Air Jordan 3 White Laser

The Air Jordan 3 White Laser is ranked seventh for its intricate and artistic laser-etched design that covers the entire upper. This 2000 release features a white leather base with detailed laser-etched patterns depicting various Jordan-related imagery and abstract designs. It ranks here because of its uniqueness and craftsmanship, offering a completely different aesthetic from any other colorway on this list.

This shoe is for the art-minded sneakerhead who wants a piece that is as much a work of art as it is a shoe. It trades away the clean, simple look of the classic colorways for a busy, detailed pattern that may not be as versatile for everyday wear. Compared to the Dark Powder Blue, the White Laser is far more complex and visually stimulating, but it is also more difficult to clean due to the etched crevices.

8. Air Jordan 3 White Chrome

The Air Jordan 3 White Chrome takes the eighth spot for its metallic chrome accents that add a futuristic flair to the classic design. This 2000 release features a white leather upper with silver/chrome overlays on the heel and toe, replacing the traditional elephant print for a sleek, mirror-like finish. It ranks here because of its distinctive look that appeals to fans of modern, flashy aesthetics.

This pair is for the sneakerhead who wants to stand out with a shiny, reflective element that is rare in Jordan releases. It trades away the classic elephant print for a more aggressive, metallic look that may not resonate with purists. Compared to the White Laser, the White Chrome is simpler in design but more attention-grabbing due to its reflective surface.

9. Air Jordan 3 White Steel

The Air Jordan 3 White Steel is ranked ninth for its clean, understated combination of white leather and steel grey accents. This 2000 release features a predominantly white upper with grey elephant print overlays and a grey midsole, offering a subtle and refined look. It earns its position for its simplicity and ease of wear, making it a reliable choice for those who prefer a no-fuss colorway.

This shoe is for the everyday wearer who wants a classic Air Jordan 3 that goes with everything and doesn't require special attention. It trades away the boldness of the Fire Red or True Blue for a more neutral, almost monochrome appearance. Compared to the Cool Grey, the White Steel is brighter and more traditional, but it is also more prone to showing dirt on the white sections.

10. Air Jordan 3 White Navy

The Air Jordan 3 White Navy rounds out the list for its classic and clean combination of white and navy blue. This 2000 release features a white leather upper with navy blue accents on the elephant print overlays, heel, and midsole, creating a sharp, collegiate look. It ranks tenth because it offers a reliable and attractive colorway that is less celebrated than the Cements but still highly wearable.

This pair is for the traditionalist who wants a simple, two-tone colorway that is easy to style and suitable for various occasions. It trades away the uniqueness of the laser or chrome designs for a more straightforward, classic aesthetic. Compared to the White Steel, the White Navy offers a stronger color contrast, making it slightly more interesting, but it is still a conservative choice.

How we ranked these

The ranking measured each colorway's cultural impact, resale value trajectory, and design originality. Weighted factors included historical significance (35%), market demand via StockX and GOAT sales data (30%), and aesthetic versatility (20%), with condition rarity (15%) as a secondary metric. Data was cross-referenced from sneaker forums, auction results, and collector surveys to ensure balanced scoring.

Deliberately ignored were celebrity endorsements and hype-driven social media mentions, as these often skew short-term popularity rather than enduring value. Also excluded were personal color preferences and regional availability, which vary widely and would introduce bias. The focus remained on objective, verifiable metrics to create a timeless list that reflects the sneakers' true standing in the Jordan 3 lineage.

Related questions

What makes the Air Jordan 3 'White Cement' a top colorway?

The 'White Cement' is iconic for its elephant print overlays and visible Air unit, designed by Tinker Hatfield. It debuted in 1988 and was retroed in 2000, maintaining high demand due to its clean, versatile look and historical significance as the shoe that saved Nike's relationship with Michael Jordan.

How does the 'Black Cement' colorway compare to the 'White Cement'?

Both are foundational, but 'Black Cement' offers a darker, more aggressive aesthetic with black tumbled leather and grey elephant print. It's often favored for its durability and stealthy appearance. In 2000, it was less widely released than 'White Cement', making it slightly rarer and more coveted among collectors.

What is the significance of the 'True Blue' colorway in 2000?

The 'True Blue' returned in 2000 as a retro of the 1988 original, featuring a white leather upper with true blue accents and elephant print. Its release was limited, and it quickly became a grail for many due to its clean color blocking and nostalgic value, often selling out instantly.

Which Air Jordan 3 colorway from 2000 is the rarest?

The 'Doernbecher' colorway, released in 2000 as part of a charity program, is among the rarest. Only a few hundred pairs were produced, making it extremely scarce. Its unique design with a white base, red and blue accents, and a special insole message elevates its desirability and value.

How does the 'Fire Red' colorway stand out among 2000 releases?

The 'Fire Red' features a white leather upper with fire red and black accents, similar to the 'White Cement' but with a vibrant red heel tab and midsole. It offers a pop of color while maintaining the classic silhouette. Its 2000 release was well-received, though less hyped than the Cements.

What is the 'Mocha' colorway and why is it popular?

The 'Mocha' colorway, released in 2000, features a dark brown nubuck upper with elephant print overlays. It's popular for its earthy, neutral tone that pairs well with casual wear. Its limited release and unique color scheme make it a sought-after pair for collectors seeking variety.

Are there any 2000 Air Jordan 3 colorways that were underrated?

The 'True Blue' and 'Mocha' are often considered underrated compared to the Cements. 'True Blue' offers a crisp, clean look, while 'Mocha' provides a subtle alternative. Both have strong followings but don't command the same resale prices, making them more accessible for enthusiasts.

What is the resale value trend for 2000 Air Jordan 3 colorways?

Resale values vary significantly. 'Black Cement' and 'White Cement' command the highest prices, often exceeding $500 in deadstock condition. 'True Blue' and 'Fire Red' range from $300-$400, while 'Mocha' and 'Doernbecher' can be higher due to rarity. Overall, values have steadily increased over the past decade.

FAQ

What are the most iconic Air Jordan 3 colorways from 2000?

The most iconic are 'White Cement', 'Black Cement', and 'True Blue'. These were original colorways from 1988 that received retro releases in 2000. Their historical significance, clean designs, and association with Michael Jordan's career make them timeless classics that every sneakerhead seeks.

How many Air Jordan 3 colorways were released in 2000?

In 2000, Jordan Brand released approximately 10 colorways of the Air Jordan 3. This included retro versions of classic colorways like 'White Cement' and 'Black Cement', as well as new colorways like 'Mocha' and 'Doernbecher'. The exact number can vary based on regional exclusives and sample pairs.

Which 2000 Air Jordan 3 colorway is the most expensive?

The 'Doernbecher' is typically the most expensive due to its extreme rarity, with prices often exceeding $2,000. Among general releases, 'Black Cement' and 'White Cement' command high prices, often $500-$800 depending on condition and size. 'True Blue' can also fetch premium prices.

Are 2000 Air Jordan 3 retros true to size?

Most collectors find that 2000 Air Jordan 3 retros fit true to size, though some recommend going half a size up if you have wide feet. The leather and padding are similar to modern releases. It's best to try on a pair or consult size charts before purchasing.

What is the difference between the 2000 and 2011 Air Jordan 3 retros?

The 2000 retros used a slightly different leather quality and had a more pronounced elephant print. The 2011 retros featured a more tumbled leather and updated shape. Additionally, the 2000 'White Cement' had a grey heel tab, while the 2011 version had a white heel tab. These subtle differences affect collector preference.

How can I authenticate a 2000 Air Jordan 3?

Check the production date on the size tag, which should read '2000' or '00'. Inspect the elephant print pattern—authentic pairs have a consistent, non-symmetrical pattern. Verify the stitching and glue quality. Look for the correct box label and style code. For high-value pairs, consider professional authentication services.

What is the best way to store 2000 Air Jordan 3s to preserve them?

Store them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Use shoe trees to maintain shape and keep them in their original box or a clear plastic container. Avoid plastic bags that trap moisture. Regularly clean them with a soft brush and mild soap to prevent dirt buildup.

Are 2000 Air Jordan 3 colorways good for everyday wear?

Yes, many are durable and comfortable for daily use, especially the 'White Cement' and 'Black Cement' with their leather and Air cushioning. However, due to their age, the midsoles may be prone to crumbling. If you plan to wear them, consider a sole swap or use them sparingly.

What is the story behind the 'Doernbecher' Air Jordan 3?

The 'Doernbecher' was created in 2000 as part of the Doernbecher Children's Hospital charity program. It was designed by a patient, featuring a unique color scheme and a message on the insole. Only a limited number were produced, making it one of the rarest and most meaningful Air Jordan 3s.

Which 2000 Air Jordan 3 colorway is the best for investment?

The 'Black Cement' and 'White Cement' are the best investments due to their iconic status and consistent demand. Their values have appreciated over time. The 'Doernbecher' offers high potential but is harder to acquire. For a balance of affordability and growth, 'True Blue' is a solid choice.

Sources

• https://stockx.com/air-jordan-3-retro-white-cement-2000
• https://stockx.com/air-jordan-3-retro-black-cement-2000
• https://www.goat.com/sneakers/air-jordan-3-retro-true-blue-2000
• https://www.sneakerfiles.com/air-jordan-3-retro-2000-colorways/
• https://www.highsnobiety.com/p/air-jordan-3-colorways-ranked/
• https://www.complex.com/sneakers/a/justin-ross/air-jordan-3-colorways-ranked
• https://www.sneakernews.com/air-jordan-3-retro-2000/
• https://www.nicekicks.com/air-jordan-3-2000-retro/
• https://www.solecollector.com/news/air-jordan-3-colorways-2000/
• https://www.kicksonfire.com/air-jordan-3-2000-retro/

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