What is a dunk shoe?

Debuted in 1985 as Nike's new, high-performance basketball sneaker, the Nike Dunk's design is a unique amalgamation of the sportswear powerhouse's predecessors: the Air Force 1, the Terminator, the Air Jordan 1 and the Legend.

Why are shoes called Dunks?

The shoe's original moniker was the College Color High, so named for Nike's plan to entice college fans by rolling out the basketball sneakers in a variety of collegiate colorways. Before its release, however, Nike changed the name to the more punchy “Dunk” in honor of the anniversary of the slam dunk.

What is so special about Nike Dunk?

Its simple look makes the shoe ubiquitous and wearable. It's simple, and it's got a big Swoosh, so you know it's a Nike. That means it's got a ton of appeal for unboxings and Insta 'fit pics.

Are Dunks the same as Jordans?

Are Dunks the same as Jordan 1? Although the shoes have a similar look, there are distinct differences between the Nike Dunk and Air Jordan lineups. You can easily tell the difference from far away by inspecting the top eyelet, where the Jordan's will be incorporated into the ankle strap and the Dunk's sits above it.

Are Nike Dunks only for basketball?

Nike Dunks are not basketball shoes. Though the shoes were first introduced in 1985 and originally for basketball, nowadays they come in many different variations. In the sports industry they are seen within skateboarders. These shoes are widely used for casual wear or even working out.

NIKE DUNK: EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW (BEGINNER'S GUIDE)

Why are dunks so popular?

By the mid-'90s, the Nike Dunk had become a cult favorite amongst the skateboarding community, thanks to its superior cushioning, support and traction.

What sport is Nike Dunk for?

Originally a classic Nike hoops shoe, the Dunk was organically adopted by skate culture—and in time re-engineered for Nike SB. These days, the SB Dunk doubles as a starting point for many of the brand's most influential design collaborators, from small-town skate shops to iconic New York fashion houses.

What is the difference between Dunks and 1s?

The main difference is the detail of the traction pattern. Each tread of the Air Jordan 1 features little raised nubs to aid in gripping the hardwood of a basketball court, whereas the Dunk is missing this extra detail. Another detail you'll notice is the Nike branding on the bottom of each sneaker.

What sneakers are called Dunks?

The Nike Dunk High was released in 1985. It was originally crafted as a high top basketball sneaker. The Nike Dunk High was similar to other Nike designs of the era – like the Air Force 1 and the Air Jordan 1. The marketing behind the Dunk High was unique for Nike.

Are Dunks a type of shoe?

Nike introduced the Dunk in 1985 as a performance basketball shoe for NCAA athletes. Initially named the College Color High, Nike realized the silhouette's scheduled release date coincided with the 40th anniversary of the first slam dunk, leading Nike to relabel the shoe as the Dunk.

Why is it so hard to buy Nike Dunk?

This is due to scarcity, both perceived and real. With the recent influx of new fans, this scarcity has crept over into the more “common” colorways and releases. With Nike SB dunks, a majority of colorways are sold exclusively at skateshops, with some being sold at select boutiques and sites like SNKRS.

Which Nike Dunk is most popular?

Nike Dunk Low Panda

The number one most popular dunk has been this exact colorway for a long time now! I've been reviewing dunks for many years, and I've never seen a pair hold the top spot for as long as this pair. It's actually not that much of a surprise if you really think about it.

Why are Dunks so much money?

Nike Dunks are expensive due to hype, limited collaboration, and only selected stores stocking them. Demand for Dunks is the most common reason why they are so expensive. Reasons we will cover in this article: Manufacturing costs.

Do dunks run big or small?

In terms of size and fit, the Nike Dunk remains true to size, so we recommend you get your regular size. The silhouette has a roomy fit, with a fully cushioned interior which ensures comfort for all-day wear.

What's the difference between dunks and lows?

The Dunk low usually features a bigger toe box and softer detailing on the back edge of the toe box and the panel on the bottom eyelet. Overall the Jordan 1 Low feature more panels, more stitching, and more lace holes. The Jordan 1s add curves where they can, while the Dunks have a steadier upper silhouette.

Are dunks owned by Jordan?

Are Dunks Part of Jordan Brand? We already touched on this a little in the last section, but a question that we get asked a lot is "Are Dunks part of Jordan Brand?" The short answer is no, but we'll dive deep into this very soon.

When did dunks get popular?

The Nike Dunk debuted in 1985 and was originally a basketball shoe geared toward college athletes, but that began to change in the late '90s and early '00s when Nike SB adopted the silhouette and made it its own.

Are dunks comfortable?

Are Dunks Or SB Dunks More Comfortable? An older SB Dunk can be more comfortable than a regular (non-SB) Dunk. Modern Dunk and SB Dunk releases tend to be stiffer right out of the box. As such, modern regular Dunks are more accommodating than their SB counterparts.

What is better Dunks or Jordans?

The biggest difference between the two though is what lies underfoot. The Nike Dunk comes with a soft foam midsole. However, the Jordan 1 features Nike's Air technology. This should deliver even more comfort and protection if you plan on using them on the court.

Are Dunks only low tops?

If you want to get super specific, there are five kinds of Dunks: A high and low-top version of both the SB Dunk and “regular” Dunk, and a mid-top version that is exclusive to the Nike SB line.

Are Dunks smaller than Jordans?

The Air Jordan 1 and Nike Dunk have similar fits. Either will fit true to size, but Nike Dunks have more of a regular fit while Air Jordan 1s have a slightly narrow fit.

Are Dunks for skating or basketball?

Nike Dunks are not specifically skateboard shoes. While they may look similar, Nike Dunks are designed for basketball, not skateboarding.

Are Dunks flat shoes?

Although introduced as a basketball shoe in 1985, its flat and grippy soles were perfect for a neglected sports community—skaters. Uncovering a subculture craving creativity as much as function, Dunk released decades of countless colorways that continue to capture the soul of skaters from coast to coast.

What does SB stand for Nike Dunk?

Nike Skateboarding, primarily known as Nike SB, is the Nike brand for its line of shoes, clothing, and equipment for skateboarding.