Infrared is the major theme of the year from Jordan. The Air Jordan Retro 3 gets the infrared treatment this round, and it makes for another notable release of one of my favorite kicks. Jordan seems to have a knack for creating a recurring cycle of classics with their timeless additions to an already immortal sneaker, and this sneaker is no exception.

The elephant print on the heel and toe of the shoe teamed with the infrared finishings makes the Retro 3 a memorable note from Jordan, reminiscent of the OG brethren White/Cement 3. It’s easy for strong color notes to dominate otherwise understated footwear, but Jordan keeps the touches low-key, delivering brief hits of vibrant color on lace holes, eyelets, air bubble, and sole.

Ultimately, the Air Jordan 3 “Infrared 23” keeps another promise to maintain the growing Jordan legacy, setting the pace for another circulation of renewed nostalgia in the year 2014.

Look for these to drop this coming Saturday, March 8 at select Jordan Brand accounts.