Once upon a time in 1988, a man named Tinker Hatfield designed a sneaker for the NBA's brightest star, Michael Jordan. That sneaker was the Air Jordan 3 "Black Cement."
The two would go on to become the best in their respective professions-Hatfield widely regarded as the greatest sneaker designer ever, and Jordan undeniably the greatest basketball player of all time.
Their partnership produced some of the most iconic footwear ever created and helped turn Air Jordans into the most influential and recognizable sneaker line in the world.
The "Black Cement" Air Jordan 3 isn't just a classic-it's a turning point in sneaker history. A shoe that didn't just change the game… it helped define it.
We last saw the Air Jordan 3 "Black Cement" (Style Code: DN3707-010) in 2024, dropping on SNKRS for $220. And every time these OGs touch down, the culture shows up-no questions asked.
Check out the video below for a closer look before we break down why they matter-and where to grab a pair at the best price.
Why the Air Jordan 3 "Black Cement" Still Hits Different
The importance of the Air Jordan 3 "Black Cement" goes far beyond its black tumbled leather upper, elephant print overlays, and Nike Air heel branding. It traces back to one of the most dominant seasons in NBA history.
In 1988, Michael Jordan captured MVP, the scoring title, and Defensive Player of the Year-all while wearing the Air Jordan 3 "Black Cement" for much of that run. Add in its presence during that year's All-Star Game, and the blacked-out AJ3 was front and center on the global stage.
Other AJ3 colorways like "Fire Red," "True Blue," and "White Cement" featured white bases, while the "Black Cement" flipped the script with a black upper and a street-approved edge.
These aren't just sneakers-they're symbols of greatness. A piece of basketball history that holds a permanent place in sneaker culture and streetwear.
Widely considered one of the most important sneakers ever made, the Air Jordan 3 "Black Cement" still holds its place at the top-even today.
Official Images // Air Jordan 3 "Black Cement" (2024)
SEE MORE: https://t.co/IHKsRH2yb0pic.twitter.com/N0sVrwpOpl
— House of Heat° (@houseofheat) November 4, 2024
So where can you actually grab a pair for the best price right now?
Quick Facts: What to Know Before You Buy
Feature Details
Model Air Jordan 3 ‘Black Cement'
Release Date November 23, 2024
Retail Price $220
Colorway DN3707-010
Key Features Nike Air heel branding, elephant print overlays
Sizing Full family sizing
Where to Buy Them Now & What's the Best Price
The Air Jordan 3 OG Retro "Black Cement" last released in 2024 during a major Jordan Brand run, with a restock following in April 2025. If you're looking to grab a pair now, the secondary market is your best bet, with a wide range of sizes available.
On GOAT, prices currently range from about $186 to $540 depending on size, with a full size run available.
StockX listings sit in a similar range, roughly between $187 and $687, though sizing is more limited-topping out around a men's size 12 based on current listings.
Over at Flight Club, pairs are priced between $188 and $547, with some sizes coming in slightly lower than GOAT.
As always, what you pay comes down to your size. For example, a size 14 is hovering in the low $300s on GOAT, while Flight Club has it slightly lower around $305 depending on availability. Prices are based on current listings at the time of writing and may fluctuate.
Prices have stayed relatively accessible due to recent availability, but that window may not stay open long.
Where to Buy Now - Direct Links
It's hard to believe a sneaker like this is still sitting below retail in some sizes.
Air Jordan 3 "Black Cement" (2024) Returns Closer to OG Form
Since its 1988 debut, the Air Jordan 3 "Black Cement" has seen multiple retros, but the 2024 version is one of the closest to the original. From the shape to the color execution, everything feels more in line with the OG-arguably hitting better than the 2018 release.
If you're looking to get into sneakers, this is a perfect place to start. The AJ3 "Black Cement" delivers history, heat, and everyday wearability in one package-and depending on your size, you can still find pairs hovering around or even under retail.
Some sneakers come and go-this one never really leaves.
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