Up Close With the Ultra-Rare Air Jordan 3 "Denim" and "Khaki" Samples

Roughly seven years ago, Jordan Brand quietly crafted special Air Jordan 3s dubbed the “Denim and Khaki” pack. As this textile-equipped set of takes AJ3s was in fact a 1-of-3 sample — one mismatched pair plus full “Denim” and “Khaki” iterations — the sneaker world has never seen a detailed set of images until now, thanks to noted collector Drew English aka English Sole. Originally created to test out how different types of materials would hold up on Michael Jordan‘s third signature sneaker and never intended for a retail release, both pairs put forth a luxurious lifestyle build.

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“Denim” uses a richly-textured navy denim for its upper, with contrast provided by tan stitching, a tan Jumpman embroidered on the tongue and a tan heel tab. In contrast, “Khaki” uses a supple tan suede for its upper with blue Jumpman graphics on both the tongue and white heel tab. Although the uppers offer a mostly inverse look, similarities are provided by khaki and navy elephant print mudguards, white midsoles and gum outsoles.

As both pairs are indeed samples, neither will see a retail release. However, for info on Air Jordans that are set to hit shelves in the coming months, check out Jordan Brand’s full Holiday 2020 retro collection.