Jordan 3 Retro "Not Nice" and "Santa" Launching 11/21 Colorway: MULTI-COLOR Style: Men's and Kid's Sneakers

Jordan Brand is checking its list twice this holiday season. The Air Jordan 3 “Not Nice” and Air Jordan 3 “Santa” release November 21, 2026, putting two Christmas-inspired spins on the iconic AJ3. One heads to the darker side of the season with coal-inspired textures and fiery accents, while the other goes all-in on Santa's signature red, white and black.

There's another twist: the two colorways are designed for different sneaker fans. The “Not Nice” releases in men's sizing, while the “Santa” arrives for kids in grade school, preschool and toddler sizes.

Whether you're shopping for yourself or putting a fresh pair of Jordan retros under the tree, here's what to know before release day.

Air Jordan 3 “Not Nice” & “Santa” Release Details

Air Jordan 3 “Not Nice”

• Release Date: November 21, 2026
• Sizing: Men's
• Price: $215
• Style Code: IF4396-001
• Colorway: Black/Challenge Red/Off Noir/Elemental Gold

Air Jordan 3 “Santa”

• Release Date: November 21, 2026
• Sizing: Grade School, Preschool and Toddler
• Grade School Price: $155
• Preschool Price: $95
• Toddler Price: $80
• Grade School Style Code: DM0967-601
• Colorway: University Red/White-Gym Red

What Inspired the Air Jordan 3 “Not Nice”?

Didn't make the nice list this year? The Air Jordan 3 “Not Nice” turns that idea into a sneaker inspired by the darker side of Christmas.

A crackled dark upper creates a worn, almost coal-like effect, while Challenge Red brings heat to the AJ3's signature elephant-print overlays and other details. Elemental Gold tones peek through the textured finish, and an aged-looking midsole adds to the weathered aesthetic.

But some of the best storytelling details aren't immediately visible.

The insoles transform Michael Jordan's playoff history into a naughty-or-nice list, with opponents crossed off and references to memorable moments from his career. “Checked It Twice” messaging continues the Christmas theme, while a hidden “Not Nice” detail appears beneath the heel tab.

What Inspired the Air Jordan 3 “Santa”?

The kids' Air Jordan 3 “Santa” takes the complete opposite approach.

University Red leather covers most of the upper, while white details and black accents pull directly from Santa's familiar suit and boots. Fuzzy black material around the ankle adds another playful nod to the theme without changing the unmistakable shape of the Air Jordan 3.

There's even some deeper Nike history hidden inside.

The insoles reference a 1985 Nike Christmas advertisement featuring the Air Jordan 1 “Chicago,” connecting this playful kids' release back to the earliest years of the Air Jordan line.

Why the Air Jordan 3 Works for the Holiday Treatment

Both releases start with one of Jordan Brand's most important silhouettes.

Originally introduced in 1988, the Air Jordan 3 helped establish design elements that are still closely associated with Jordan sneakers today. Tinker Hatfield's design introduced visible Air cushioning to Michael Jordan's signature line and gave the shoe unmistakable details like elephant print and the Jumpman logo.

That's part of what makes this holiday pairing work so well. Jordan Brand isn't hiding the AJ3 underneath a Christmas theme. Instead, familiar parts of the silhouette become part of the storytelling.

On “Not Nice,” elephant print gets a darker red-and-black interpretation. On “Santa,” classic paneling helps break up the University Red, white and black palette.

Same Jordan 3. Two completely different spots on Santa's list.

Which Holiday Air Jordan 3 Is for You?

For adults, the Air Jordan 3 “Not Nice” is the obvious choice. Its darker palette makes the Christmas inspiration subtle enough to keep wearing long after the decorations come down. Black cargos, dark denim and neutral sweats can let the red accents and textured upper take the lead.

The Air Jordan 3 “Santa” brings the holiday energy for kids. Its University Red upper makes a statement with jeans, joggers or a matching sweatsuit, while the white and black details make it easy to pair with everyday colors.

Together, the releases also make a fun family sneaker moment without requiring matching pairs. Adults get the mischievous “Not Nice,” while younger sneaker fans get Santa.

Get Ready for the Air Jordan 3 Holiday Releases at Hibbett

So, which list are you on?

The Air Jordan 3 “Not Nice” and “Santa” both release November 21, giving adults and kids two completely different ways to get into the holiday spirit

Before release day, check the Hibbett Launch Calendar for the latest availability and launch information. And after the holidays, keep exploring Hibbett's Air Jordan 3 selection for more colorways of the classic silhouette.