The Elephant Print Icon

The Air Jordan 3, released in 1988, was a huge moment for both Michael Jordan and Nike. Tinker Hatfield designed this shoe, and it's credited with keeping Michael Jordan with Nike when he was thinking of leaving. Hatfield's innovative design brought in several key features that are now signature Jordan elements: the famous "elephant print" (or cement print) on the toe and heel, the visible Air unit in the heel, and the first appearance of the Jumpman logo (replacing the Wings logo) on the tongue. The AJ3 was also lighter and more comfortable, which suited Jordan's changing needs on the court. Its "Black Cement" and "White Cement" colorways are legendary, and many people consider it one of the greatest sneakers ever, admired for both its look and its historical impact.