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Original Story (07/20/26): Jordan Brand is dropping a new “Laser” edition of the Air Jordan 3 featuring the laser-etching technology pioneered by legendary Nike designer Mark Smith in the mid-2000s.
Revealed by Jayson Tatum while out in London during his summer tour with Jordan Brand, the Air Jordan 3 “Laser” is equipped with off-white premium tumbled leather uppers that are jam-packed with references and motifs related to Michael Jordan. We spot the “M AIR J” license plate that famously adorned MJ’s 1992 black Ferrari 512 TR, a car he drove during the height of the Chicago Bulls dynasty. “Sandy Bros.” refers to Eric and Chad Sandy, a twin duo at Nike, Inc. who have made significant contributions to Jordan Brand. They were previously referenced on the “receipt” that came with the “Lost and Found” Chicago 1s. Other motifs include a golf cart, representing MJ’s love of the sport, and the “23” entrance gate from MJ’s former Chicago-area estate.
Other design details include brown low-pile suede overlays at the toe and heel, metallic silver eyelets, and Nike Air branding on the heels.
This isn’t the first time laser-etching has been used on the Air Jordan 3. In 2003, the Jordan Brand team made a special one-of-one “Laser” Air Jordan 3 PE for MJ to celebrate his 40th birthday. That pair is likely the main inspiration for this “Laser” Air Jordan 3 releasing to the public.
Jordan Brand is also preparing to bring back another fan-favorite from the Laser era. The original 2005 “Laser” Air Jordan 4 is slated to return in 2027 in both the “Black” and “White” colorways, marking the first time the intricately etched design has been reissued.
The Air Jordan 3 “Laser” drops August 22nd via SNKRS and select retailers. Grab a first look below and stay tuned to Modern Notoriety for release updates.
Update (07/20/26): Jordan Brand has shared additional photos and details behind the “Laser” AJ3. The shoe is built around the idea that greatness is made up of countless details, with each graphic serving as a tribute to the influences that helped shape a global icon, encouraging wearers to discover something new every time they take a closer look.
Air Jordan 3 “Laser”
Color: Phantom/Palomino-University Red
Style Code: IO2365-001
Release Date: August 22, 2026
Price: $230 USD
Jayson Tatum on-feet photos via SLAM:
