COMPARED: 2016 True Blue Air Jordan 3 vs. 2026 True Blue Air Jordan 3

Jordan Brand’s retro cycle has brought the return of an original Air Jordan 3 colorway with the True Blue rendition finally coming back after a 10-year hiatus. The pair was never worn by Michael Jordan in a regular-season or postseason NBA game during its original run in 1988, with Tinker Hatfield and Nike designing the colorway for Michael to wear during the All-Star Game.

However, he did lace them up during an NBA Stars vs. Team USA exhibition game during the 1988 Olympic trials and on one other occasion when he was judging a dunk contest. Jordan would wear a player-exclusive version of the pair that matched his Wizards uniform in 2001 and would be spotted with the ‘01 retro version as well.

Outside of the original release in 1988, the pair has been released four other times, with retros in 2001, 2009, 2011, and most recently, 2016. Now, as we approach the release of the 2026 retro of the Air Jordan 3 True Blue, let's compare the 2016 and 2026 releases.

Differences Between the 2016 and 2026 Air Jordan 3 Retro True Blue

General Shape

Jordan Brand has changed the shape of retro Air Jordans over the years, with certain eras defined by their shape. The Jordan 3’s shape most recently changed with the release of the White Cement Reimagined in 2023, which brought the AJ 3 closer to the original 1988 shape and look. Since the 2016 True Blue 3 was released before this change took place, the general shape of the shoe is different. That doesn’t affect the fit, however, but you can learn more about Air Jordan 3 sizing here.

Tongue

As part of the shape change on the Air Jordan 3, the tongue is slightly different on the 2026 True Blue 3 compared to the 2016 pair. The pair from a decade back has its red lining peeking over, while the 2026 pair tucks it behind the tongue, leaving white leather visible across the top. This runs true for all newly released Air Jordan 3s.

Heel Tab

Another instance where the shape change has affected the True Blue 3 is the heel tab. Both pairs have the same heel tab design, with a rubbed texture and Nike Air branding, but the main difference lies in how it sits on the shoe. The 2016 pair lines up with the curve of the sockliner and sticks out slightly. On the 2026 True Blue 3, the heel tab is lower on the shoe and it's flush with the perforated leather collar.

Elephant Print

Elephant Print details on Air Jordan 3s can be hit or miss, depending on the retro. Not every single pair during a specific retro release will be identical due to manufacturing, but you can clearly see that the 2026 pair has a darker finish. Your mileage may vary, and like the fiasco with the Air Jordan 3 Retro Black Cement from 2024, the Elephant Print may look nothing like the official imagery provided by Nike.

Color Difference

Now this is a major point in how well-received any retro Air Jordan release is. Each retro slightly varies in color, and in all honesty, it’ll be nearly impossible to recreate the exact shade of “True Blue” used in 1988 decades later.

When the 2016 and 2026 True Blue 3s are pictured side-by-side, you can see that the 2016 pair is darker compared to the 2026. Early images from retailers showed this lighter blue shade, but now that we have official photos from Nike to compare, you can see just how big the difference is.

The original 1988 version technically is on the lighter side and is closer to the 2026 retro, but many have become used to the 2016's darker finish. When you wear the pair out and about, it’ll be tough to discern just how close that blue is to one from previous releases. However, comparing it side by side? You'll for sure see the 2016 retro is darker than the 2026 retro.

Air Jordan 3 Retro True Blue 2026 Release Info

The Air Jordan 3 Retro True Blue will be released July 18, 2026 via Nike and select retailers online and in-store. Available in full-family sizing, the retail price is set at $230 (adult), $155 (GS), $95 (PS), and $80 (TD). Check below for official images of the 2026 release, and download the Sole Retriever mobile app for updates on the latest releases, raffles, news, and more in the sneaker and streetwear world.

Nicholas Vlahos

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