Air Jordan 3 “Laser” Launching In August

July 21, 2026

Two decades and change later, Mark Smith’s Laser Project is back in focus for Nike and Jordan Brand. Setting the table for next year’s Jordan 4 “Laser Pack” retro is a premium, laser-etched Air Jordan 3 inspired by a one-of-one pair gifted to Michael Jordan himself.

While 2005 is generally regarded as the official debut of laser-etched graphics on Jordan footwear, led by the Air Jordan 20 and the aforementioned Air Jordan 4 pack, the story actually begins two years earlier. In 2003, Laser Project curator Mark Smith used the same engraving process seen across several Air Force 1 releases to create a one-of-one Air Jordan 3 for Michael Jordan’s 40th birthday. The original ranks among the rarest Jordans ever made, so elusive that even clear photographs are nearly impossible to track down.

That pair serves as the foundation for this August 2026 release. Elaborate illustrations cover the upper, collectively forming a tapestry of Jordan’s life, personal interests, and storied playing career. Premium tumbled leather handles the base, while low-pile brown suede appears across the toe, heel, and collar. Nike Air branding lands on the backtab, itself laser-engraved to match the refined character of the rest of the shoe. Pure class.

The Air Jordan 3 “Laser” releases through Nike SNKRS on August 22nd, 2026, priced at $230 in men’s sizes. See detailed images below if you plan on going for a pair.