It's a signature element of the Jordan 3, and without it, the shoe loses some of its iconic character. For $200 USD, you're paying for the silhouette and brand, but some might want the original details. It's a matter of taste. Comparing it directly to my retro Jordan 3s... the difference is in the "materials" and "construction". The retro uses heavier leather and has that encapsulated Air cushioning. This Rare Air Jordan 3 uses simpler materials to hit that lower $150 price point. It's not "worse," just "different". If you want the premium OG feel, get the retro. If you want the look for less, this is it. Alright, so I just got the "rare air jordan 3" in hand, and my first impression is... interesting. The silhouette is classic, but this "Rare Air" version has a noticeably different build. The elephant print feels a bit softer, and the overall materials are more of a budget-friendly execution. For $200 USD, you're paying for the iconic look, not premium materials. Let's see how they feel on foot. Final verdict? I'm into them. For the price, the Jordan 3 Rare Air delivers a sharp, wearable shoe. I love having this silhouette in a lightweight, everyday option. It's not my go-to for all-day comfort, but for style points? It scores high. Would I recommend it? Yes – if your priorities are looks and value over plush cushioning.