Nike Goes Reptilian With Air Jordan 3 “Animal Instinct 2.0”

The 2.0 update for the Air Jordan 3 “Animal Instinct” is wrapped in scales instead of fur.

The Air Jordan 3 “Animal Instinct 2.0” embodies a swampy vibe, with much darker tones.

Though fur is often associated with luxury and opulence, is it not a widely appreciated texture especially on footwear. So, with the 2.0 update, Nike took the furry panels on the Air Jordan 3 “Animal Instinct” and swapped it out for scales. That’s right: the new Air Jordan 3 “Animal Instinct 2.0” will be covered in reptilian leather from the heel to toe.

Air Jordan 3 “Animal Instinct 2.0” front view

This time, the sneaker’s color blocking is a much more muted mixture of black, grey, dark browns and greens. These panels are constructed from snake, alligator and elephant print leathers, really embodying the African wilderness.

Brown and grey snake leather on the toe cap and yellow Jordan tab at the heel add pops of color to the sneaker. The embroidered Jumpman on the tongue really stands out, as it is constructed from a shimmery crimson thread. This leather-clad upper sits on a classic white Air Jordan 3 midsole. So we can expect the usual comforts from the retro Jordan.