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Jordan Brand’s presence in the international market has forever been associated with Japan, but last year, they officially entered Mexico with the first-ever Jordan World of Flight store inside Nike’s new flagship store in Mexico City. To go alongside the 22,000 square foot facility, the brand produced an homage to country and its heritage with the Air Jordan 5 El Grito, which featured embossed patterns inspired by traditional Mexican architecture. For 2025, Jordan Brand is looking to the world of lucha libre and for an Air Jordan 3 Retro.
Officially titled “El Vuelo” (translating to “The Flight” in English), the pair is meant to honor Jordan Brand’s connection to Mexico City by celebrating lucha libre and luchadores. More specifically, drawing the connection between MJ taking flight and the high-flying style of lucha libre. The sneaker is done primarily in white leather, with red snakeskin replacing the elephant print details on the toe and heel.
Images via sneakerhomms
Green faux snakeskin leather hits the collar, while an added faux snakeskin panel in a wavy, winged design, similar to what you might find on a luchador mask, is added to the midfoot. Golden accents shine on the Jumpman on the heel tab and tongue tag, while the interior tongue splits the phrase "más vale maña que fuerza" (literally translating to skill is better than strength) between the left and right shoe.
Finishing touches include a tonal white lace set, metallic gold eyelets, and a white-on-white sole unit. The sneaker itself is packaged in a special box that mimics vintage professional wrestling promo posters.
Image via Secretaría de Cultura Ciudad de México
Traditional luchador masks from the early 20th century featured simple designs and basic colors, tracing their origins back to ancient Mayan and Aztec warriors. Today, modern masks are intrinsically tied to the specific wrestler and their identity. Entire personalities and personas in the world of professional wrestling rely on the mask, which often evokes images of animals, gods, and heroes. These masks are also considered sacred and hold high value, it’s a big faux pas to try to unmask an opponent in a match.
The Air Jordan 3 Retro El Vuelo will release Fall 2025 through Nike and select Jordan Brand retailers online and in-store. Available in men’s sizing, the retail price is set at $230. Download the Sole Retriever mobile app to stay updated on the latest releases, raffles, news, and more in the sneaker and streetwear world.
Images via Nike
Images via sneakerhomms
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
