In August of 1985, Nike – along with designer Peter C. Moore – introduced a line of sneakers that would change the world of sneaker and shoe, streetwear, and fashion culture forever: the Nike Dunks. Originally released in the High silhouette, these shoes took inspiration from the AJ1, Terminator, AF1 and the Legend, and debuted in seven different university-themed colorways – the University of Iowa, University of Kentucky, University of Michigan, Georgetown, St. John’s, UNLV, and Syracuse University. The basketball-aimed shoes bridged the gap between player and fan, allowing more accessibility into the world of sports and team representation and cheer – leading to the moniker “Be True to Your School”. Despite Nike’s initial intention, the sneaker fell off the radar of mainstream basketball culture and status by the early 90s; luckily for Nike, skateboarders had a different plan for the course of the shoe, and in the late 90s, the Nike Dunk was known and seen through skate culture, the function of sneakers as a tool and an accessory, and through fashion.
Nike Dunk High “Moon Fossil”
Nike Dunk Low Next Nature “Lilac”
In 2002, the iconic Nike Dunk SB was born: these shoes featured different design elements that would better support skateboarders in their sport. The classic “fat tongue” was established, the elastic strap was re-installed, and a Zoom Air Unit was added in the heel along with an upgraded sock liner – famously topped off with the Poron foam bed for supreme success and durability. Despite Nike’s objective in the wear and design of both models – as skateboard and basketball shoes, respectively – the iconography of each shoe remains secure as customers continue to wear them and broaden the worlds of both Dunks and Dunk SBs.
Nike Dunk Low “75th Anniversary”
Nike Dunk High “Sail Gum”
Another date that would carve out a new culture within sneaker wear was none other than February 22, 2002. The fame of the “City Transit” collection was largely due to the design itself, with each of the four sneakers paying homage to four major global cities – Paris, London, Tokyo and New York City. But the one that would reign in the hall of fame in sneaker and streetwear history is none other than Jeff Staple’s NYC “Pidgeon”. Sporting a sleek design with an all-over grey colorway and an embroidered pigeon on the heel of these Dunk SB Lows, these shoes paved way for the culture of releases, hype, limited edition drops and resell value. Next time we enter an online queue – or if we’re lucky enough to grab a drop in store – envision the history that took place ten years ago, a moment in time that allowed us to partake in the creative and authentic culture that is streetwear and sneakers.
Nike Dunk Low “Goldenrod”
Nike Dunk Low “Panda Metallic”
At SNIPES, heritage details are key to our commitment and participation within the streetwear world. We’ve all known the struggle and strife of missing out on the latest and greatest Nike Dunk releases – which is why we are determined to continue to bring availability and ease to all our family and friends. Not only do we have the cult-classic “Pandas” on rotation, but we maintain the Nike legacy through the team-themed colorways – available for all ages and genders alike. Thanks to your loyalty, you’ll never have to worry about missing another iconic moment in streetwear culture again – especially through our Instagram, blog posts and app, curated to keep you in the loop and staying up to date on everything SNIPES.
