Originally released 34 years ago, Air Jordan 3 “Fire Red” is set to make a return.
By Charlotte Whybrow @charlottewhybrow
When we see a sneaker retro’d composed of OG colours, it is always a must-have for me. Not only is it because it creates a sense of familiarity but also the fact that Michael Jordan himself once sported these colours creates a connection like no other. The “Fire Reds” were first debuted by Jordan in the 1988 playoffs, thus by owning the shoe we can appreciate the history, whilst paying homage to the man himself.
Four particular favourites of mine would have to be the 4s, 5s and 6s, and of course the 3s, but now and then I will dip into some of the other designs, especially when they consist of the OG colourway.
The Jordan 3 was Hatfield’s very first Jordan and it was the shoe that realistically saved the brand, with MJ ready to pull the plug. The pair was a show-stopper, with Hatfield even confiding in Michael Jordan himself to design the most comfortable and durable shoe. And of course, he accomplished this with great success!
A more recent design that took centre stage was the Jordan 3 x A Ma Maniere, which proved a triumph amongst the Sneaker Community. I feel this was Shoe of the Year for 2021, and I am more than sure that many people will agree. One particular element of the shoe that stood out to many was that it was a Woman’s release, which is a HUGE deal as it was a beautiful shoe that had obviously, had a lot of thought put into it. As my first Jordan 3, it truly lived up to my standards and solidified my need for the Black Cements, which I’m definitely now on the hunt for! Realistically, this collaboration is what made me fall completely in love with the Jordan 3 and an absolute plus to it is that they’re one of the most comfiest silhouettes!
The design, comfort and support that the shoe holds make this pair suitable for any occasion, whether you’re on-court, on the streets or choosing it as a casual option to go shopping. The versatility of the pair means they can be styled in various ways - with shorts in the summer and some baggy pants or joggers in the winter!
When it comes to styling shoes, I tend to pick out the main colours and wear clothing with elements of this on. Alternatively, I wear outfits that make the shoes pop, as sometimes they deserve to have their moment, which I think the Jordan 3 Fire Red definitely deserves!
Originally released 34 years ago alongside three alternative colourways, the Air Jordan 3 “Fire Red” is set to make a return. The classic silhouette is still one of the most popular to this day, proven by an increase in collaborations and colourways of the design over the last year. With regards to the “Fire Red”, we have seen it retro’d twice, once in 2007 and once in 2013, we have never seen them be re-released in their true OG form. This year we are being treated, as the 2022 pair will feature a white heel tab that has been nicely rounded off with the original Nike branding - an iconic feature missing on both the 2007 and 2013 pairs.
Another element that stands out to any sneakerhead, is the elephant print mudguard and heel, which is an important characteristic when it comes to the Jordan 3 as it’s the silhouette that started it all. When Tinker Hatfield spoke with MJ regarding the redesign of the shoe, this was one detail that was to be added, influenced completely by MJ’s unusual taste. Staying on the theme of firsts, the silhouette also features the Jumpman logo on the tongue, an element designed purely off of Michael Jordan’s signature jump. The final other details include tumbled leather with a matte finish, red eyelets and a grey perforated tongue.
Check out the OffspringHQ Instagram for more info on this release.
