The hype around the Nike Dunk Low has simmered significantly compared to the fervor around the retro basketball model at the start of the decade. As trends changed, Dunks began to hit sales racks, and “Dunks are dead” cries emerged from the sneaker community. Nike is challenging this notion with a brand new colorway that decidedly calls out detractors of the model.
A DIY, grungy aesthetic is applied to the sneaker through canvas overlays with raw edges on the mudguard, eyestays, and heel overlay, all of which come in an army olive hue. Below this sits a black tumbled leather, present along the toebox, midfoot panel, and collar overlay. On the Swoosh, we see a pink suede finish applied, with the edges featuring Frankenstein stitching to aid the DIY look.
On the medial side, the Swoosh continues with its pink look but takes on a canvas construction attached via a Velcro patch. The patch also comes in pink and features “Est. 1985,” a nod to the year the Nike Dunk first hit shelves. Another nod to the Dunk is found on the lace set, which comes with retro-inspired buttons that contain Nike branding in a punk rock-like font, one of which proclaims “Dunks Not Dead.”
Other customizable features include the patches on the tongue tag and heel tab. The latter has a vintage army-style font on the added Velcro patch, and the former has a minor hit of Nike branding on the canvas Velcro patch. Below, the silhouette has a black rubber midsole and dark brown rubber outsole.
The Nike Dunk Low Dunks Not Dead will release on February 1, 2025, through Nike and select retailers online and in-store. Available in men’s sizing, the retail price is $130. Download the Sole Retriever mobile app to stay updated on the latest releases, raffles, news, and more in the sneaker and streetwear world.
Images via Nike
Sneakerhead from South Florida who turned his passion into a career. When not writing for Sole Retriever, I enjoy attending concerts and catching the latest movies. Email: nick@soleretriever.com
