About: Nike Dunk

The Nike Dunk is a classic sneaker that has been around since 1985. Originally designed as a basketball shoe, the Dunk has since become a cultural icon, worn by athletes, skaters, and sneakerheads alike. In this blog, we'll take a look at the history of the Nike Dunk, including both the high and low models, as well as the Nike SB Dunk.

History of the Nike Dunk The Nike Dunk was first introduced in 1985 as a high-top basketball shoe. The design was inspired by the Air Jordan 1, which had been released the previous year. The Dunk was designed to be a versatile shoe, suitable for both on-court and off-court wear.

The original Nike Dunk came in a variety of colorways, with each colorway being inspired by a different college basketball team. The shoes featured a leather upper, a padded collar, and a rubber sole with a pivot point for easy movement on the court.

In 1986, Nike released a low-top version of the Dunk, which was designed for skaters. The low-top version had a more streamlined silhouette and a thinner tongue for better board feel. The low-top Dunks were an instant hit with skaters, who appreciated the shoe's durability and grip.

Over the years, the Nike Dunk has been released in countless colorways and collaborations. Some of the most iconic Dunk colorways include the "Be True to Your School" pack, which was inspired by college basketball teams, and the "What the Dunk" collaboration with artist Thomas Campbell.

Nike SB Dunk
In 2002, Nike launched the Nike Skateboarding (SB) division, which was dedicated to creating shoes specifically for skaters. The first shoe released under the SB division was the Nike SB Dunk.

The Nike SB Dunk was designed with input from professional skaters, and it featured several modifications that made it better suited for skating. The shoes had a padded tongue and collar for added comfort, a Zoom Air unit in the heel for cushioning, and a thicker, more durable sole.

One of the most notable differences between the Nike SB Dunk and the non-SB version is the use of different materials. The SB Dunks often feature premium materials, such as suede or leather, that are designed to withstand the wear and tear of skating.

Another difference between the SB and non-SB versions of the Dunk is the colorways. While the non-SB Dunks were originally released in colorways inspired by college basketball teams, the SB Dunks quickly became known for their collaborations with skate shops, artists, and musicians. Some of the most sought-after SB Dunk collaborations include the "Supreme" collaboration, the "Diamond" collaboration, and the "Heineken" collaboration.

In conclusion, the Nike Dunk has a rich history that spans over three decades. From its origins as a basketball shoe to its current status as a cultural icon, the Dunk has remained relevant and popular throughout the years. The introduction of the Nike SB Dunk in 2002 further solidified the Dunk's place in skate culture, and the shoe continues to be a favorite of skaters and sneakerheads alike. Whether you prefer the high or low version, the SB or non-SB version, there's no denying the impact that the Nike Dunk has had on sneaker and skate culture.

Shop the Nike Dunk here