Jordan Luka 3: Is The Luka Magic Gone?

The Jordan Luka 3, simply put, falls short of expectations, especially given its $130 price tag. While it does offer decent on-court performance, it lacks innovation in both technology and design.

The shoe does feature several stand-out features, that certain types of players will love, but you may want to wait until the Luka 3 receives a discount. Here’s why:

UPDATE: The Jordan Luka 3 made it onto our list of the best basketball shoes in terms of traction, and our list of the best basketball low top basketball shoes.

Jordan Luka 3 Review and Tech Specs:

Jordan Luka 3 Traction

The traction on the Jordan Luka 3 might be the shoe’s best feature. The sole is built with 2 different types (and 3 different colors) of rubber. As far as the traction pattern goes, what we have is full-length herringbone tilted in several different directions depending on the portion of the shoe it’s placed on. This multi-directional traction pattern ensures grip no matter which way you move, catering to Luka’s dynamic play style.

The use of both solid and translucent rubber may seem concerning at first glance since translucent rubber tends to attract more dust, but, modern iterations of translucent rubber are significantly better in terms of performance. The Jordan Luka 3’s outsole should maintain solid traction even with slightly dusty court conditions.

As far as outdoor use goes, the Luka 3 won’t be a great option, but it also won’t be terrible. This shoe is definitely not designed with the blacktop in mind, but the traction pattern is deeply set, the rubber is relatively tough, and the sole is nice and flat so it should be able to handle outdoor surfaces better than most.

Jordan Luka 3 Cushion

Here we see a “significant” change from the Luka 2. Not so much in terms of on-court performance, but, more in terms of technology. The Jordan Luka 3 is equipped with a full-length slab of Cushlon 3.0, a versatile and reactive setup designed for a smooth and fluid low profile ride. Luka’s signature line has featured Formula 23 foam up to this point but Jordan seems to have scrapped that tech.

Formula 23 was intensely promoted and featured on several Jordan models, and now it’s nowhere to be found. Formula 23 and Cushlon feel very similar underfoot so this isn’t exactly an upgrade, but it is worth noting how hard the Formula 23 experiment flopped.

The Cushlon 3.0 is implemented within a lightweight EVA carrier which adds stability to the midsole. Cushlon 3.0 may not offer the same level of bounce as some other cushioning technologies like ZoomX, but it provides a balanced mix of impact protection and court feel. This makes it suitable for players who have a more grounded style of play without sacrificing comfort. For those looking for more spring or compression, options like the GT Cut 3 or Air Jordan 38 might be more suitable.

Jordan Luka 3 Materials

The materials on the Jordan Luka 3 are where the shoe falls short. The upper is constructed from a micro-molded mesh, complemented by synthetic leather in the heel. There are also portions on the tongue and the medial toe area that feature a neoprene-style material. While these materials are functional, a $130 signature shoe deserves more. The Luka 3 feels like a budget basketball shoe in hand.

The shoe lacks the premium touches that one might expect in a signature model at this price point. Again, no complaints as far as on-court performance, but the cost does not seem justified given the quality of materials used.

Jordan Luka 3 Support

Support, as in the previous two Luka models, is a strong aspect of the Jordan Luka 3. The shoe features Jordan’s IsoPlate, which extends from the midfoot to the forefoot, wrapping around the lateral side of the shoe. This plate adds tons of lateral stability, crucial for quick direction changes and hard stops. It’s a shoe designed to cater to Luka’s playing style.

Additionally, the plate functions as a mini spring plate in the forefoot, adding a bit of propulsion when pushing off. The dual-density foam setup also contributes to support, with the EVA carrier providing a stable base while the Cushlon core adds compression underfoot. The shoe is also equipped with a substantial outrigger and, overall, the shoe is very wide with a lot of contact surface with the court. All in all, the Luka 3 will provide a very stable and secure ride.

Jordan Luka 3 Fit

Here we have another weakness of the Jordan Luka 3. The shoe fits half a size small, which is unusual for Jordan Brand sneakers that typically run true to size or slightly large. This snug fit can be problematic, especially for players with wider feet, who play with ankle braces, or those who prefer a bit more room in their sneakers.

The micro-molded mesh upper, while flexible, doesn’t compensate enough for the tight fit. Players may need to size up or use thinner socks to achieve a more comfortable fit. If you can, go try the Luka 3 on in store before purchasing.

Jordan Luka 3 Overall

Overall, the Jordan Luka 3 is a rather disappointing model. Performance should be fine, but feels lackluster if you take into account the $130 price tag. The lack of innovation is also a bummer, both in terms of tech and all-around aesthetics. Admittedly, traction and support are standout features, and cater well to shifter players on court, and the cushioning setup will provide a comfortable, zippy, and smooth ride, which will work well for most playing styles.

However, the materials used feel very cheap for the price, and the fit can be uncomfortably tight. Honestly, we expected more from the 3rd signature shoe of a player of the caliber of Luka Doncic. The Jordan Luka 3 sneaker is a solid choice all around, especially for players who prioritize traction and support, but we suggest holding off until you can get the Luka 3 on discount.