After numerous rumors throughout 2025, the Nike Retro Air Jordan release calendar for 2026 is filled with several classics making their long-awaited returns. Early Air Jordan numbered models continue to see a resurgence as another Jordan 3 makes its way into the rotation. This time, the “True Blue” colorway returns for the first time since 2016.
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The Air Jordan 3 was released in 1988 as Michael Jordan's first sneaker to feature his Jumpman logo. It was the first sneaker from renowned Nike designer Tinker Hatfield, who later took over the Air Jordan numbered series. In an extensive catalog, the Air Jordan 3 always stands out as the original that launched the creative vision.
Between classics like the “Black Cement” and “White Cement” pairs, the “True Blue” colorway has been a foundational pair for the Jordan 3 legacy. For the first time since 2016, fans will have the chance to get their hands on an updated version of the popular colorway.
Air Jordan 3 "True Blue" (2026)
Air Jordan 3 OG “True Blue” Returns Fall 2026 ❤️💙 https://t.co/2YshheSCb8 pic.twitter.com/qaV9BDKiLx
- JustFreshKicks (@JustFreshKicks) 24 February 2026
The “True Blue” Air Jordan 3 OG Returns on July 18th! 🌊
MJ Face Box. Perfect-family size. #nikeair pic.twitter.com/v2e09x5feW
- zSneakerHeadz (@zSneakerHeadz) 27 February 2026
Air Jordan 3 “True Blue” Returns July 18th, 2026 🔵🔴⚪
Details: https://t.co/w2TAdI6pZ9 pic.twitter.com/Xrq0YZ3MtZ
- House of Heat° (@houseofheat) 26 February 2026
The Air Jordan 3 “True Blue” will follow in line with the OG version from 1988, featuring a similar silhouette shape and classic Nike Air branding on the rear heel. The colorway comes in a distinctive White/Cement Grey-True Blue scheme, complete with the iconic elephant print along the mudguard, back heel panel and eyelets. Hits of red are seen throughout for perfect contrast and balance against the white leather base.
Nike will be taking it a step further in bringing back the classic Air Jordan “Face” boxes that were in circulation from 2001-2005 and will provide an additional nostalgic detail for this release.
The Air Jordan 3 OG “True Blue” is expected to release on July 18th, 2026 at a standard retail tag of $220. Heading over to the Nike SNKRS app, we can expect full family sizes with adjusted pricing as stock should be sufficient for the sneaker's first retro release in 10 years.
