Air Jordan 3 "Laser" Revives MJ's Personal Birthday Story

The Air Jordan 3 is heading back to shelves in August 2026 with a new "Laser" edition, and the concept traces back to one of the rarest pairs ever made. The story starts in 2003, when Jordan Brand crafted a one-of-one laser-etched Air Jordan 3 as a gift for Michael Jordan's 40th birthday. For more than two decades, that pair existed mostly as sneaker lore, and now the concept behind it is finally making its way into a full retail release.

According to Jordan Brand, the Air Jordan 3 "Laser" is built around the idea that greatness comes down to countless small details. Laser-etched artwork spans the entire upper, weaving together a visual narrative drawn from the interests, achievements, and cultural moments that shaped Michael Jordan's journey. Each illustration works as a nod to the influences that helped turn MJ into a global icon, rewarding a closer look with something new to notice.

Air Jordan 3 “Laser”

Style CodeJA1369-001

Release DateAug 22, 2026

Retail Price$230

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The shoe rides on a Sail-based upper, layered with intricate tonal laser engravings across the leather overlays and paired with brown suede accents and the classic Air Jordan 3 tooling underfoot. Premium tumbled leather combines with low-pile suede to give the artwork a refined canvas, while the familiar silhouette keeps the comfort and heritage that built the model's legacy in the first place. The Phantom/University Red/Palomino/Sail colorway leans warm, blending neutral tones with a subtle red accent for a look that nods to the classic without repeating the standard Air Jordan 3 color stories.

The Air Jordan 3 "Laser" is set to release on August 22, 2026, priced at $230.