The Air Jordan 3 Retro True Blue Returns Fall 2026
PublishedQuick Facts
- Jordan Brand will retro the Air Jordan 3 True Blue in Fall 2026
- The colorway is one of the four original AJ 3 colorways that were released in 1988
- It has since returned four times: 2001, 2009, 2011, and 2016
- The 2026 retro will feature Nike Air branding and be as close to the OG as possible
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We’re not even at the end of 2025, and we already have a solid picture of what to expect from Jordan Brand’s retro releases for 2026. Following up on the 40th anniversary celebrations this year is going to be difficult, but pairs like the Reverse Infrared Air Jordan 6, Wolf Grey Air Jordan 5, and Toro Bravo Jordan 4 give us high hope. For MJ’s third signature sneaker, there’s only been a handful of confirmed drops, including the new women’s exclusive Olive Aura for Summer 2026 and a Bin23 colorway. However, Sole Retriever can confirm that the Air Jordan 3 Retro True Blue will be re-released in the Fall 2026 season.
If you’re unfamiliar, here’s a quick rundown on the history of the Air Jordan 3 Retro True Blue. The pair is one of the four original Air Jordan 3 colorways released in 1988 alongside the White Cement, Black Cement, and Fire Red. The other three pairs are fondly remembered for their moments on the court in 1988, but MJ never laced up the True Blue in a game. Nike had designed the colorway for Jordan to wear in the NBA All-Star Game, but he would choose to wear the Black Cement instead. Years later, during MJ’s post-retirement run with the Washington Wizards, he did wear a pair of Jordan 3s similar to the True Blue, but with copper accents.
Since its original release in 1988, the True Blue Air Jordan 3 has been released five times. The first retro in 2001 came with a Jumpman logo instead of Nike Air on the heel, with the 2009 (not available in the US market) and 2011 releases also opting for this change. In 2016, the True Blue returned once more, this time with Nike Air branding on the heel and a premium price tag of $200. In 2023, Jordan Brand finally released the PE version of the True Blues that Jordan wore during his days with the Wizards.
Expect the 2026 retro of the Air Jordan 3 True Blue to come as close to the OG as possible. This includes the white leather upper, black and grey elephant print on the toe, heel, and lacing setup, and blue accents on the sockliner, eyestays, Nike Air logo on the heel, and parts of the sole unit.
The Air Jordan 3 Retro True Blue will release Fall 2026 through Nike and select Jordan Brand retailers online and in-store. Check below for images of the 2016 retro, and download the Sole Retriever mobile app to stay updated on the latest releases, raffles, news, and more in the sneaker and streetwear world.
Sneakerhead from South Florida who turned his passion into a career. When not writing for Sole Retriever, I enjoy watching films and discovering music. Follow me on Letterboxd @nickvlah For tips, reviews, or any shoes in a size 13, email nick@soleretriever.com
