Finding the best Nike Dunk is trickier than you might think with so many great sneakers to choose from. That's why we've compiled a list of some of our favourites to help you start your search for a new pair to add to your collection.
Now, the tricky part is that with the model widely considered one of the best sneakers on the market since its debut in the '80s, the list of Nike Dunk releases is almost endless The sneaker is so popular in fact, that it is still being made to this day seeing as its one of the most popular and best Nike shoes ever created.
As a result of there being so many Dunks on the market, we've decided to focus our list on the best releases from the last year or so. In doing this, we've narrowed the selection pool to shoes which are currently more attainable than some of the '80s and '90s basketball shoe classics.
So, rather than an all-time selection, our list has you covered if you're looking to buy a new pair of Dunks today. Make sure you check back in though as we'll be updating our list once more great Dunks are released throughout the year. For now, though, let's get into some sneakers!
Best Nike Dunks
- Nike Dunk Low "Industrial Blue"
- Nike SB Dunk Low "Coconut Milk"
- Run The Jewels x Nike SB Dunk High "Active Pink Black"
- Nike SB Dunk Low Pro "White Gum"
- Nike Dunk Low "Valentine's Day" 2024
- Nike Dunk Low "Sand Drift"
- Nike Dunk Low "Chicago Split"
1. Nike Dunk Low "Industrial Blue"
The Nike Dunk Low "Industrial Blue" draws inspiration from Japan, incorporating traditional Sashiko stitching into the design to make it stand out from the crowd as one of the best low-tops on the market.
The shoe boasts denim uppers with white contrast stitching and features Sashiko designs on the toe box and heel tab. The white Nike branding on the tongue and insoles adds a clean finishing touch to the overall aesthetic.
The use of Sashiko stitching is a nod to Japanese tradition and brings a unique element to the Dunk Low "Industrial Blue" that sets it apart from previous releases. The denim material used for the uppers adds to the shoe's industrial feel while still remaining stylish and versatile.
Overall, we feel this show showcases Nike's attention to detail and willingness to draw inspiration from various cultures. The use of Sashiko stitching adds depth, making it a must-have for sneaker enthusiasts and fashion-forward individuals alike.
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2. Nike SB Dunk Low "Coconut Milk"
Launched in February as a highlight of the City of Love collection, the "Coconut Milk" SB Dunk Low has swiftly ascended the ranks of popularity, not only within the SB Dunk lineup but in Nike's sneaker catalogue in general.
It features a minimalist design that combines a Coconut Milk base with contrasting Light Bone suede overlays. Where it stands out, though, is through its Renaissance-inspired details., notably the insole's graphic that mirrors the iconic Creation of Adam found on the Sistine Chapel's ceiling, adding a romantic narrative for this City of Love showpiece.
However, the sneaker retains the skateboarder vibe synonymous with the SB line through the inclusion of the signature padded tongue and its recognisable silhouette. This balance of refined aesthetics with its underlying skater feel makes it a versatile option for a range of occasions, solidifying its status as an exemplary Nike Dunk to add to your collection.
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3. Run The Jewels x Nike SB Dunk High "Active Pink Black"
Moving on to one of the most sought-after Dunk Highs on the market right now - the Run The Jewels x Nike SB Dunks. These remarkable sneakers arrived earlier this year in two distinct colourways, but this "Active Pink Black" design truly steals the show with its bespoke design and unique detail.
They feature chiselled-out, jewel-like Swooshes on each side, complemented by golden lace dubraes engraved with the signature insignias of Killer Mike and El-P.
What's more, they're crafted from sleek black leather and vibrant pink faux fur to match the laces and a striking outsole. Adding to this, the heel tab introduces a splash of yellow that harmonises with the insoles, which, once again, pay homage to Run The Jewels.
So, if you're on the lookout for a pair of sneakers that effortlessly blend artistic flair and undeniable style, the Run The Jewels x Nike SB Dunk Highs are an absolute must-have.
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4. Nike SB Dunk Low Pro "White Gum"
The Nike SB line also saw the debut of the stunning Dunk Gum Pack in 2023, which included the Dunk Low Pro in two distinct colourways.
Out of the two, the "White Gum" design stands out as a particular highlight to us as it's crafted from high-quality tumbled white leather, complemented by black nubuck Swooshes down either side.
All this rests above a gum-coloured outsole and showcases black Nike branding on the heel, tongue, and insoles to round off the simple yet effective aesthetic.
It's a classic SB Dunk Low in many ways, featuring a simple colour scheme and a stunning gum outsole. As a result, it's a top-tier Dunk that would fit nicely into almost any sneaker collection.
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5. Nike Dunk Low "Valentine's Day" 2024
The 2024 "Valentine's Day" Dunk Low is an excellent Nike Dunk to consider adding to your collection. Don't be put off by its Valentine's Day theme either, as we feel it's an excellent option to rock all year round with its subtle red and white colour scheme.
Of course, the colour scheme is a nod to the day of love itself, but there are no overt nods anywhere in the design. It is unique though, featuring a blend of white leather and a light shade of red suede to complete the upper. You also get a darker, richer, burgundy Swoosh down each side that matches the insole and tongue tab.
So, if you're after a super-wearable shoe that's more than just one of the best Nike sneakers for Valentine's Day around, then give this "Valentine's Day" colourway some thought.
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6. Nike Dunk Low "Sand Drift"
The Nike Dunk Low "Sand Drift" is a stylish women's-exclusive sneaker that pays homage to the classic '80s aesthetic.
Featuring a captivating colour combination of Sand Drift and Hemp, this low-top showcases a blend of leather and suede in various shades of brown. The attention to detail is evident with contrasting stitching accents, adding a nice visual touch.
The heel tab displays an embossed Nike logo, while a stitched tag graces the leather tongue, further emphasising the brand's signature style and rounding off this stylish women's-exclusive Dunk in classic Nike fashion.
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7. Nike Dunk Low "Chicago Split"
Breaking away from the traditional Dunk aesthetic, the "Chicago Split" Lows reimagine a timeless colourway with a split design inspired by one of the best Air Jordans ever made - the "Chicago" 1.
The upper showcases a combination of University Red and bright white, but then deviates from the traditional design with light silver and black on the iconic Swoosh logo, hence the 'split' element of its name.
Adding to the already unique upper is a slightly off-white, almost pre-aged midsole complete with a black and white outsole to continue the whole split-in-half concept.
It's an incredibly unique sneaker with a ton of history behind the colour scheme. Therefore, if you're a hardcore sneaker fan, this "Chicago Split" Low is definitely worth checking out.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
There are often a ton of questions that pop up when looking for Nike Dunks. Don't worry though because we've answered some of the most commonly asked queries right here.
Where can you buy Nike Dunks?
There are several places to check out if you want to buy a new pair of Dunks, many of which we go more in-depth on in our lists of the best places to buy sneakers.
Our number one recommendation is to visit the Nike store as it's the first place you'll find new Dunks drop, plus Nike offers a 60-day (30 in the UK) returns policy in case you're not 100% satisfied with your order.
Nike also has a useful launch page called SNKRS. New Dunks usually get listed here ahead of their release, with the website allowing you to sign up for push notifications about specific sneaker drops as well.
If the Dunks you're after are sold out at Nike, then we'd suggest heading over to the resale market on websites like StockX and GOAT, both of which authenticate every purchase to ensure your second-hand sneakers are legit.
Are Nike Dunks better than Jordan 1s?
Whether Nike Dunks are better than Jordan 1s is a subjective matter, as both sneakers have their unique features and appeal to different individuals.
In fact, both have similar backgrounds, with Nike Dunks first introduced as basketball shoes in the 1980s. However, they became popular among skateboarders in the 1990s due to their durability and versatility, and are more worn as a lifestyle shoe these days.
Jordan 1s, on the other hand, were designed specifically for Michael Jordan in 1985 and are widely regarded as a significant part of sneaker culture. They typically feature a high-top design and come in various colourways, making them a fashionable choice for both athletic and casual wear.
Both sneakers have their respective strengths and appeal, and it ultimately comes down to personal preference. Some people may prefer Nike Dunks for their comfort and casual look, while others may prefer Jordan 1s for their history and iconic design.
Are Nike Dunks comfortable?
Nike Dunks are generally considered to be comfortable sneakers. They feature a cushioned midsole that provides impact absorption and support, making them suitable for everyday wear and various activities.
The level of comfort may vary though depending on factors such as the specific model, materials used, and personal preferences. You find Nike Dunks to be very comfortable, while others may have different experiences based on factors such as foot shape and size. Therefore, it's important to get the fit right above all else when determining comfort.
The simplest way to do this is to draw an outline around your foot and measure its length and width before comparing your measurements to one of Nike's size charts to determine what size Dunks you need. Make sure you're aware of any differences between Nike and adidas sizing, for example, to ensure you're not just choosing a size based on your size elsewhere.
Once you've established the size shoe you need, you should be well setup to find Dunks comfortable.
Are Nike Dunks suitable for wide feet?
Dunks can be a favourable choice for individuals with wide feet. Although they may not offer the same level of spaciousness as Nike's Extra Wide Fit collection, they do tend to provide more room compared to certain performance footwear like running spikes or football boots.
The origins of Dunks in basketball could explain their slightly roomier design, which accommodates comfortable manoeuvring during quick turns and lateral movements.
However, the ultimate method to ensure a proper fit with Dunks is to try them on at a local sneaker store. Once you determine the ideal size for both the width and length of your feet, you can confidently make future purchases.
Can you customise your own Nike Dunks?
Yes, Nike provides customisation options for certain models, including Nike Dunks. You can do this on the Nike website under Nike By You. Here, you can personalise your own Nike Dunks by selecting various colour combinations, materials, and sometimes even adding personalised text or graphics.
It's important to note that not all Nike models are available for customisation, and the specific customisation options may vary based on the available design choices at any given time. It's best to check Nike's official website for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding customising Dunks if you're going through Nike itself.
You can, of course, customise your Dunks by hand as well. However, this requires a significant amount of skill and precision to get right. So, if you're new to customising your own shoes and don't really want to ruin a pair of Dunks, then you may be better off sending them off to a professional personalisation service.
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