Many have strong opinions of the fragment design x Air Jordan 3 that released back in 2020, with criticisms often lambasting the release for its propensity to yellow. But before said collaboration hit the shelves, Hiroshi Fujiwara himself was seen wearing a completely different, more positively-received colorway, setting fans up for inevitable disappointment. And now — almost four years after the pair’s first appearance — the knife is beginning to twist, as detailed images of the sample have finally surfaced.
Despite its lack of Elephant Print, the fragment design x Air Jordan 3 sample bears an uncanny resemblance to the “Racer Blue” 3s. Solid black paneling takes the place of said pattern along the toe cap and heel, the latter of which features the Japanese label’s signature lightning bolt stamp. Elsewhere, the rest of the upper is predominantly clad in a white tumbled leather, with perforated accents alternating between a light grey and blue. The cool tone is also applied to the Jumpman and Nike Air branding, the lowermost and topmost eyelets, and the text-adorned trim of the midsole.
Enjoy a close up look at the fragment design x Air Jordan 3 sample right here. Unfortunately, it’s unlikely that these will ever release to the public.
If you’re interested in shoes you can actually have (if you’re lucky, that is), the Travis Scott Air Jordan 1 Low Olive releases this April.
Photos: @truesthawaii