Regarding storytelling in sneakers, specifically those tied to cities, Nike often uses the Peter Moore-designed Dunk Low silhouette. Over the last few years, nods to various US cities have emerged on the sneaker, including pairs Philly, NOLA, ATL, and Los Angeles pairs. Now, Nike looks to NYC’s punk rock scene to pay homage to the city and the iconic CBGB club.
Initially opened in 1973, CBGB transformed from a dive and biker bar to an iconic part of NYC’s music scene. More specifically, the club hosted some of the most famous punk rock and new wave artists of the late 20th century, including Ramones, Beastie Boys, and, outside of these genres, even Madonna. After serving the community for decades, the club, located near Bleecker St and Bowery, closed on October 15, 2006.
As for Nike’s tribute to the club, they’ve translated punk rock aesthetics onto the Dunk Low by applying a cracked leather finish with a worn-in black and grey look to the overlays. An earth-tone leather is present on the toebox and midfoot, with a darker panel located on the collar. One of the first homages to the club itself is found on the Nike branding of the tongue tag and heel tab, written in the same font and color as the CBGB club’s logo.
Inside, the insole features a collage of punk-inspired Nike logos and nods to NYC, with a direct nod to the location of the club found on the reverse of the tongue. The left pair features a street sign-inspired green tag that reads “Bleeker” (a misspelling of Bleecker St.) while the right reads “Bowery,” a nod to the location of the CBGB club. Finishing the design is the tonal rubber midsole and outsole.
The Nike Dunk Low NYC CBGB will release in Spring 2025 through Nike and select retailers online and in-store. Available in men’s sizing, the retail price is set at $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
