Jordan 3 VS Jordan 4: What Should I Buy?

There aren’t many shoe styles with as much history and legacy as the Air Jordan 3 and Air Jordan 4. Both styles are highly significant to Michael Jordan’s career and to the brand as a whole.

Many different iterations and colors of each model have been released over the years and they become favorites among sneakerheads. However, the question is if these are the same or have any variations.

To help you make a smart purchase, we’ve provided a full comparison of these top-tier Jordan 3 and 4 in this guide. So, let’s begin.

Similarities and Differences between Jordan 3 And Jordan 4:

FeaturesJordan 3Jordan 4
Launched in19881989
StabilityStableMore stable
FlexibilityFlexibleFlexible
Sizing5-12 for Men5-9 for Women6-13 for Men4-11 for Women
Weight12-18 oz.13-16 oz.
CushionMedium CushioningAdequate Cushioning
OutsoleRubber with a herringbone patternRubber with a herringbone pattern
InsoleFabricFabric
UpperSynthetic or full grain LeatherDurabuck Leather/ Mesh
MidsolePolyurethanePolyurethane
Retail Price$100-$150$150-$250

Jordan 3 VS Jordan 4: Good, Bad, and the Worst:

Now we will go over the features and benefits of Air Jordan 3 & 4 and try to evaluate which comes at the top of the game.

1) Comfort:

The Air Jordan 3 and 4 are two of the most comfortable sneakers on the market due to their quality construction materials. 


They both have a “Nike Air unit” in the heel that gives the feet better cushioning and makes these shoes more comfortable to wear for long amounts of time by reducing shock and absorbing impact.

In addition to a padded collar and insole, the upper of the Jordan 3 is made of soft leather that molds to your foot for a comfy fit.

Additionally, this classic Air Jordan has a Durapontex sock lining that can be removed if needed for a customized fit. This anatomically precise insole makes the shoe feel like a glove and prevents excess heat from accumulating, making it one of the most comfortable pairs of Air Jordans you can find.

On the other hand, the Air Jordan 4 feels more comfortable, primarily due to the inclusion of airy mesh instead of only leather across the whole length of the upper. It also has a mid-top collar, which is slightly less restricting on the feet while still providing ample ankle support.

Furthermore, the Air Jordan 4 appears to have a sufficiently cushioned footbed, and compared to the Jordan 3, it has a wider base that will be comfier for different foot types.

Keep in mind that Jordan 3 will fit right in without any break-in period while Jordan 4 can take a little time for almost a week to fully adapt to the foot shape. 

You Should Also Check Out Our Comparison Between Air Jordan 1 And Air Jordan 4.

2) Popularity:

Air Jordan 3 and 4 are two of the most popular signature sneaker styles of this line.

Michael Jordan contributed to establishing these models in the minds and hearts of the public through advertisements and these shoes helped propel the brand to new heights and achievements.

During the 1987–88 NBA season, when the Air Jordan 3 debuted by Michel Jordan it went on to win multiple honors, including “Most Valuable Player”.

The brand also collaborated with “Spike Lee” in a series of iconic Air Jordan 3 and 4 commercials that appeal to sneaker-obsessed teens. 

3) Running:

Air Jordan 3 and 4 are initially designed as basketball shoes, which means they are intended to be run in, but probably not as much as running-specified footwear.

Jordan 3 Outsole

Jordan 4 Outsole

They both might be capable for a short run but can cause fatigue during longer, more strenuous runs.

In addition, the heel cushioning is not enough in these shoes which can be harmful while running as it puts extra stress on sensitive parts of your foot.

4) Walking:

The Air Jordan 3 and 4 are more suited to be worn indoors or outdoors walking since they feature improved traction for smooth and slippery surfaces.

Both of these styles were designed with sports in mind that require extensive movement, so they are ideal for those who need additional walking support.

5) Flat Feet:

The technology used to make the insole and midsole of Air Jordan 3 and 4 will give adequate strength to flat feet, so you can’t go wrong with either pair.

Moreover, you can replace the footbed of both of these models with an orthopedic insole, so wearing supportive ‘orthotics’ in your footwear gives more structural arch support to flat feet. This also promotes a healthy pressure distribution in your body, making you less susceptible to any kind of injury.

You Can Also Check Out The Comparison Of Air Jordan 5 vs Air Jordan 6

5) Design:

The Air Jordan 3 was designed more than three decades ago, during a transitional period between the retro and the contemporary, as evidenced by its exposed air bubble design displaying the Nike Air Unit, self-lacing system, and bulky silhouette.

They were “the first Jordans to incorporate the Jumpman logo on the tongue”, which has since become a pop culture icon, giving them great significance in Jordan’s history.

In addition to the logo, its full-grain leather construction, and exotic, yet refined elephant print details on the toe-cap and heel accent in a well-balanced colorway make this model one-of-a-kind.

Besides its aesthetics, its mid-top design offers much more flexibility than high-tops and greater stability than low-tops, thereby protecting the ankle.

Overall, these shoes were initially designed to be worn on the court, yet they are so comfortable that can be used for any low-impact athletic activity.

On the other hand, the shoe designer, wanted the Jordan 4 to be a step up from the Jordan 3, but the two styles retained few key similarities. As the back heel of these shoes still had the Nike Air logo, the tongue featured the same Jumpman, a carryover from the Jordan 3.

In addition to durable and eco-friendly synthetic Durabuck leathers, the model features a customizable lacing support system that can be tailored to the needs of any athlete.

As a result, the Jordan 4 was proven to be the most technical-looking signature shoe style and made with practicality and performance in mind, but still, it works better for streetwear than the courts.

Ultimately, we believe that both designs are revolutionary and wonderful in their own way.

What do customers think?

Customers tend to agree that the Air Jordan 3 is stylish, easy to walk in, and made with excellent materials.

In addition, this basketball-inspired sneaker has adequate backfoot support and a plush interior that owners love and praised a lot.

Most people who wear this shoe style like how easy it is to match it with different outfits. 

Also, a few players said that the mid-top collar of the shoe does a good job of supporting the knees, and most of them expressed that the heel-to-midfoot lockdown of these shoes is very helpful.

In addition, nearly all buyers agree that Air Jordan 3 is worth the money and that they are satisfied with their purchase.

However a few people suggest that the toe box on the Jordan 3 is somewhat smaller, so if your feet are uncommonly broad, you may want to order a half-size bigger.

Conversely, the traction of the retro Air Jordan 4 has been praised by nearly all reviewers, and its adaptability has led many to mention that it may be one of the best Air Jordans ever.

Some of them concur that the Air Jordan 4 is among the most modern and sleek AJs ever; it pairs well with a wide variety of outfits.

Indeed, people who try on these classic shoes are often taken aback by how well they fit as well as their secure feel. 

Moreover, Pro players have said this model lives up to its claim of being more breathable than its predecessor, so you can wear them in hot weather without worrying about sweat issues.

However, people seem to be unsatisfied and complained that the clean appearance of the Air Jordan 4 was ruined by the presence of the extra adhesive, scuff marks, and creases.  

Conclusion:

It is much more difficult to determine which of the two is superior, as they both look fantastic and have historically performed well in different categories.

With the evolution of new models, if you are in search of a proper basketball shoe, Air Jordan 3 and 4 will “NOT be the best for you”. You would be better off purchasing newer versions of basketball shoes that have additional features to ensure you will have the best gaming experience.

However, if you prefer a sports shoe-inspired style that is flexible enough to provide ultimate comfort for everyday use, the Air Jordan 3 will benefit you.

Just like that, the Air Jordan 4 is most appropriate for people who intend to make a fashion statement with their footwear for daily activities.

You Can Also Read Our Comparison Of Jordan 2 And Jordan 3 Here.

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