UPDATE 21/05/2023: The J Balvin x Air Jordan 3 Rio (FN0344-001) lands WEDNESDAY 22ND MAY 2024. Find updated imagery, as well as a list of stockists, below!
ORIGINAL ARTICLE 10/10/2023: There’s nothing like a ‘first glimpse’ to get the sneaker community hyped. In the hot seat this time is the J Balvin x AJ3 Rio, anticipated to drop during summer 2024.
The dynamic partnership between the global singer J Balvin and Jumpman enterprise began back in 2020, with the release of the Air Jordan 1 High OG ‘Colores Y Vibras’. Kicking off their collaborative endeavours with a sneaker that resembled a tie-dye rainbow, it was clear from the start that the Colombian star doesn’t play by the rules. And why would he? Carrying the title of the first Latino artist ever to partner with Jumpman, it’s no surprise that breaking the norm is a recurring factor within each iteration. The colourful AJ1’s sold out on release day – a pretty big flex as far as collaborative sneakers go.
Following the most recent release of the J Balvin x AJ3 Medellín Sunset last month, enthusiasts of the dynamic alliance have already set their sights on what’s in store next. And what better way to find out about the upcoming ‘Rio’ iteration than via pictures of the star casually playing a game of basketball with Jimmy Butler? Named after J Balvin’s two year old son Rio (big flex), the kicks boast a sleek leather black base. ‘Solar Flare’ and ‘Total Crimson Abyss’ hues grace the exterior, communicated through a multi-gradient midsole. It wouldn’t be a J Balvin x Jumpman collaboration without the iconic smiley and co-branding, wrapping up this red hot iteration.
As sadly aforementioned, we don’t expect to see the J Balvin x Air Jordan 3 Rio until Summer 2024. While you await the drop, why not explore the duo’s previous sneaker endeavours via the banner below…
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