You’ve waited long enough. The Nike Ja 3 arrives in early 2026, dressed for the Lunar New Year and honoring the Year of the Horse. Its textures, tones, and touches are built for sneaker lovers who care about culture as much as court performance. This isn’t a quiet drop. It makes a statement, starting with the rich brown faux horse hair wrapped around the tongue, which is a direct nod to the zodiac animal ruling in 2026.
The sole glows in silt red, a shade associated with luck and energy in Chinese tradition. Metallic gold Swooshes catch the light with every step – not just for flash, but for meaning: prosperity, celebration, and forward motion. Look closer. The insoles carry the phrase 一马当先. Say it aloud: “One horse leading the way.” That’s Ja Morant’s spirit stitched right into the shoe.
The upper mesh stays grounded in an earthy brown, allowing the red accents and golden curves to stand out without being overbearing. The laces match the lining. No detail feels accidental. Even the overlays shaped like his jersey number run smoothly along the sides and are finished in the same warm red found underfoot.
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Some might see shades of past Nike SB Dunks, especially the wild pony hair editions. But this design stands on its own. It doesn’t borrow. It builds. It’s inspired by zodiac symbolism, not skate nostalgia. It’s built for hardwood hustle, not sidewalk strolls.
It will be released in men’s sizes around February 2026, timed with Lunar New Year festivities. What will the retail price be? Not confirmed yet. But, as history has shown us, pairs will sell out quickly. Set alerts. Bookmark release calendars. Talk to your local shop now.
Ja’s third signature model proves that he’s more than just highlight reels. He’s heritage. He’s timing. He’s texture. And this 2026 Lunar New Year edition? It’s his most culturally tuned release yet.
