- SHARE:
The Jordan 3 is a very popular sneaker model amongst collectors. But is the Air Jordan 3 actually comfortable to wear?
Air Jordan 3 Are Comfortable
The Air Jordan 3 has a comfortable fit right out of the box. While the older technology doesn’t offer much cushioning, with some break-in time, the comfort can surpass that of other early model Jordan retros.
These have soft leather and feel plush on feet
While the Air Jordan 4 absolutely kills my feet without mercy, I love how the Air Jordan 3 looks and fits. As far as Jordan retros go, nearly every pair of AJ3s has been comfortable right off the bat with minimal break in time required.
I’m not alone on this, as around social media other sneaker enthusiasts have agreed with the comfort on 3s. This is not everyone however, as some collectors don’t see eye to eye with me on the Jordan 3 comfort.
Comfort is subjective as everyone has a different foot shape. My experience is that the soft leather uppers on a classic pair of 3s make the sneaker very comfy. The cushioning beneath one’s feet on the AJ3 is nothing special, however, considering that the Air unit is primarily a way to get the weight of the midsole down. That said, the shoe is neither more or less comfortable underfoot than most early Air Jordan retros.
Jordan 3s Are True To Size
The Air Jordan 3 generally fits true to size for most. Those that find the sneaker too tight may find better results going up a half size.
I’d describe the fit on these as “standard”
The fit on a sneaker right out of the box is known as “step-in comfort”. In my experience (and many others like me), the 3 rates pretty high in this department.
This is of course at true-to-size, which is the base size most are going to try when first getting a sneaker. What really helps the step-in comfort of the Jordan 3 at true to size is the accommodating fit combined with uncomplicated paneling on the interior of the sneaker.
Where the seams line up on the inside of a sneaker will rub against the foot causing blisters if the shoe design isn’t well thought out. The Air Jordan 4 struggles because of this, but the Air Jordan 3 does not have the same issue, at least for my foot shape and many others.
If you are having these types of issues, the easiest way to get around them is to go a half size up. While this might make the sneaker feel too big on feet, it will help ramp up the step in comfort and decrease break-in time.
Air Jordan 3s Break In
The Air Jordan 3 will break in quickly. The amount of time can vary depending on the materials used on the upper. Going up a half size can reduce the amount of break-in time needed.
A classic colorway (OG in fact) and very comfy
in my opinion
I have not noticed a significant break in time for the AJ3. Regardless, by wearing the sneaker extensively, even stubbornly stiff releases of the 3 will break in over time.
The majority of Jordan 3s are built from leather. The quality varies by release; the uppers on some colorways are usually pliable but others can be stiff. Some 3s will utilize suede or nubuck. Softer leathers and suedes should require less break in time. Over time, the upper on most sneakers will conform to the wearer’s foot shape a bit, becoming a much better and more comfortable fit.
Going up a half size will increase the amount of room in the sneaker and decrease the break in time. This creates more space and decreases the amount of irritating contact some may feel.
Air Jordan 3s Are Somewhat Good For Wide Feet
The AJ3 has a very standard fit for a Jordan retro. The sneaker should fit most foot widths. Going up a half size can help alleviate issues for those who still find the shoe narrow.
Another comfy OG colorway
From the outside, the 3 appears chunky, yet sleek. This look is part of the retro appeal! The fit on the inside thankfully matches that on the exterior.
From what I’ve heard from some wide-footed sneaker aficionados, the AJ3 fits well without having to adjust the sizing. Still, if you really find the sneaker to be too narrow, going up a half size can be a solution.
The only issues with going a half size up are that it can make the sneaker fit long and require a tighter lace-up to prevent heel slippage. This is the often the case when sizing up on a shoe.
Air Jordan 3 Are Not Good For Basketball
One could play basketball in an Air Jordan 3, however it is inadvisable when compared to more advanced modern basketball sneakers available. Today’s tech surpasses that of the 80s and 90s with respect to sports performance.
I would put the Air Jordan 3 strictly in the casual category. While one could theoretically hoop in some retro Js, this is nowhere near ideal. I find walking in the Air Jordan 3 is ok, as long as you don’t overdo it. A few miles at a time is fine though. The Jordan 3 is also good for collecting of course, due to the history of the sneaker.
Jordan 3s Can Crease Easily
The materials used on the Air Jordan 3 are usually leather, and sometimes suede or nubuck. While pairs with suede or softer leather will take longer to crease, the 3 will eventually develop creases just like any other shoe.
I’ve found that if I actually plan on wearing a pair of Jordan 3s, I have to accept the inevitable creases on the toebox. I’ve found the thicker, softer leather pairs take longer to crease and generally have less stark crease lines.
Here we have a dilemma for collectors. I personally have learned to not freak out over creases, and accept them as part of wearing sneakers. However, those that wish to keep their pairs crease-free are at a crossroads. While the sneaker can be collected and kept clean, the only way to 100% avoid creases is to not wear them. Unfortunately, this can lead to a host of issues, particularly if the sneakers are not stored correctly. Shoes need to be worn to prevent long-term problems and increase the longevity of the shoe over time.
Shop Air Jordan 3
- Browse Air Jordan 3s on eBay