Overview
In 2023 Jordan brand continued the Stay Loyal series with edition number 3, one that we’ll have a closer look today to review its features. Over the past few decades, alongside its retro line the Jumpman brand developed a series of hybrid sneakers like the Dub Zero and 6 Rings but also some more affordable ones like the Aura and the Stay Loyal. Due to the lower retail price these two have turned into series of their own. Known for their versatility and budget price, these also adhere to the quality Jordan brand has been known for. While there is virtually no hype around them when it comes to sneakerheads, they are still very much widely appreciated by teens and not only.
The Jordan Stay Loyal 3 takes the hybrid sneaker concept to a new level by mixing new, modern technologies with the old ones from retros. Much like the first edition the AJ11 is the main inspiration, but with some AJ4 elements as well this time.
How They Fit
The Jordan Stay Loyal 3 fits true to size with a roomy toe box. It is the type of shoe that needs a bit of break in period, especially if you want to play ball wearing them. They are lighter than the previous versions, with size 11 weighing just over 14oz which is pretty good for a mid silhouette. For this review we got the black and red colorway, one of the most iconic for the Jordan line. They have the looks and feel of any hyped model but at a lower price.
Upper
The upper of the Jordan Stay Loyal 3 is made of a combination of leather and mesh with synthetic overlays. This last one is a modern element that we are not used to seeing on a hybrid sneaker but it is a nice new touch which adds more air flow to the upper and surely makes the whole shoe lighter. For the pair we got the iconic mudguard featuring patented leather, a feature that will always be associated with the AJ11. There is nothing special about the tongue, being very similar to the ones from the first retros. The branding on the tongue, upper and outsole are all retro logos that we are used to finding at the first models in the retro line.
Sole Unit
If for the first two editions of the Stay Loyal the Jordan brand kept the same sole unit, the one for the 3rd edition has been upgraded. While it does not offer the same stability (as least on the sides) it is less clunky and more streamlined for a lifestyle sneaker. It features the same EVA midsole in two densities along with the Air Max unit in the heel. This translates in a nice shock absorption and bounce in the heel with a smooth transition to the forefront that is great for a casual shoe as well as for an occasional game on the court. If the main complaint of the previous edition was the outsole, with this new edition Jordan brand did not do much to improve the traction, I would say quite the opposite. When we tried these on the court for this review indoors they did ok only after a while of breaking them in for a while. For outdoors the traction on the court was not that great either.
Bottom Line
The Jordan Stay Loyal 3 is a nice addition to the series, being a shoe that was mostly designed as a casual shoe. For those who look for a sneaker to wear in school or casually they are a solid option, especially given the low price point. They are quite versatile, being more lightweight than other classic inspired sneakers. They are very comfortable and they seem durable, certainly they offer a good value. If you play basketball occasionally these will do, being closer to the modern styles than most true retros out there. That is even if they do not shine in the stability and traction on the court.
