Nike’s Freshest Pair of Dunks: Lows vs. Highs
Basketball (like most sneakers from the 1980s) is where it all started for the dunks. Particularly popular at the time was college basketball, and as one would expect, Nike spotted an opening, jumped at the chance, and created iconic sneakers that have been a staple in the sneaker community since their debut in the 1980s. They come in various styles and iterations, including high-top and low-top versions. If you’re reading this, then you most probably want to buy a pair of Dunks, so here is a very important yet straightforward comparison of high-top vs low-top Nike Dunks:
The High-Top Nike Dunks
The history of high-top Dunks dates back to the 1980s when Nike first introduced them as basketball shoes. Here’s an overview of the evolution and key moments in the history of high-top Nike Dunks:
These extremely popular and widely desired shoes were first released in 1985 as a basketball shoes designed to provide enhanced cushioning and ankle support on the court. They were part of Nike’s “College Colors” program, which featured colourways inspired by various college basketball teams.
The Nike Dunk High gained popularity among basketball players and sneaker enthusiasts throughout the 1980s and 1990s. It became a favourite among skateboarders as well, who appreciated its durable construction and grippy outsole for skateboarding.
Over the years, Nike collaborated with athletes, artists, and designers to release special edition Dunk colourways and collaborations. Some of the most notable collaborations include the Nike SB Dunk collaborations with skateboard brands like Supreme, Diamond Supply Co., and Concepts, which elevated their status in the sneaker community.
Style and Aesthetics
Dunks High is known for its bold and eye-catching colourways, which often feature contrasting panels, colour blocking, and vibrant accents. These colour combinations create a dynamic and visually striking aesthetic that has become synonymous with the Dunk silhouette.
The higher silhouette of high-top Dunks gives them a classic and retro look, reminiscent of basketball sneakers from the 1980s and 1990s. An important feature to notice is that the Hugh top dunks feature a taller collar that extends above the ankle, providing additional support and stability to the foot and ankle.
Functionality
High-top Dunks are often preferred for activities that require ankle support, such as basketball or skateboarding. The taller collar helps to prevent ankle injuries and provides a secure fit during movement.
Versatility
High-top Dunks can be styled in various ways, from athletic wear for sports activities to casual wear for everyday outfits. They add a statement element to any look and can be the focal point of an outfit.
The Low-Top Nike Dunks
The history of low-top Nike Dunks is closely intertwined with that of their high-top counterparts, but low-top Dunks have their own unique story and evolution within sneaker culture. Here’s an overview of the history of low Nike Dunks:
Like the high-top Dunks, low-top Nike Dunks were initially introduced in 1985 as part of Nike’s basketball shoe lineup. They were designed to offer the same performance features and styling as the high-tops but with a lower profile and cut.
In the late 1990s and early 2000s, Nike Dunks gained popularity among skateboarders due to their durable construction and grippy outsole. Low-top Dunks, in particular, became a favourite among skateboarders for their lighter weight and improved mobility compared to high-tops.
With the launch of the Nike SB (Skateboarding) line in 2002, Nike began releasing special editions of the Dunk specifically designed for skateboarding. These SB Dunks featured enhanced cushioning, reinforced stitching, and unique colourways inspired by skate culture. Low-top SB Dunks became highly sought after by skateboarders and sneaker enthusiasts alike.
Style and Aesthetics
Low-top Dunks have a sleek and modern silhouette that is versatile and easy to style with a wide range of outfits and are mostly synonymous with streetwear fashion and urban culture, thanks to their popularity among skateboarders, sneakerheads, and fashion enthusiasts.
They were often featured in music videos, movies, and street-style photography, further solidifying their status as iconic sneakers. Low-top Dunks have a shorter collar that sits below the ankle, offering a more relaxed and casual look compared to high-tops.
Functionality
Some people prefer these Nikes for casual wear or light physical activity because they don’t require as much ankle support. They offer greater freedom of movement and are often more comfortable for everyday wear.
Versatility
Low-top Dunks can be paired with various clothing styles, including jeans, shorts, skirts, and dresses. They are a popular choice for streetwear and fashion-forward looks. They continue to be released in new colourways and collaborations, attracting attention from both seasoned collectors and newcomers to the sneaker game.
In summary, the choice between high-top and low-top Nike Dunks ultimately depends on personal preference, intended use, and style preferences. High-top Dunks offer added ankle support and a classic aesthetic, while low-top Dunks provide a more relaxed and versatile option for everyday wear. Both styles have their unique appeal and can be incorporated into a variety of outfits and activities.
