This is the Air Jordan V (5) Retro "3Lab5" edition which features a cement grey, gamma blue and black color way. This pair is a unique design because it mixes the iconic cement grey "Elephant Print" found on the Air Jordan 3 and incorporates it throughly on the AJ5 including the Jumpman on the back and the side netting. The "Elephant Print" pattern was first introduced in 1988 with the AJ3 and it truly revolutionized the sneaker world. The AJIII model was the first to conceptualize a performance shoe with a theme, the elephant print represented MJ's "groundbreaking" performance on the court by appearing like cracked concrete. The use of gamma blue on the tongue Jumpman logo and midsole "shark teeth" also adds a nice contrast to the neutral look of the cement grey and black print.

One of the best elements of this release is the special packaging used which helps tell the story of the "Air Jordan Element" series. The box features a holographic geometric pattern foreshadowing further premium cross-pollinations. Even the tissue paper inside has embossed logos pulled straight from the AJ3 legacy. On the inner tongue it shows a periodic table inspired embossing, made out of premium leather, that references "El" as the third element, that being the 1988 AJ3. Jordan Brand threw in a unique info card that helps explain the "Elephant Print" legacy from the 1988 AJ3 model and the Element series that foreshadows shoes to come. If you're a true collector and cherish these special models then here is your chance to add it to your collection.