The Best Nike & Nike SB Dunks of 2021 | Sneakerhead Heaven

*By Minh Vuong*

In the dynamic world of sneakers, 2021 was undoubtedly a memorable year for Nike enthusiasts and sneakerheads alike. It was a year where Nike, along with its iconic Nike SB line, unleashed a multitude of Dunks, each brimming with unique designs and stories. The Dunk, a classic silhouette that has transcended its humble origins to become a cultural phenomenon, continued to capture the hearts and imaginations of sneaker aficionados around the globe. Despite the challenges of acquiring these coveted pairs, the fervor surrounding Nike Dunks remained undiminished. As we bid farewell to 2021, it’s only fitting that we delve deeper into the world of Dunks and explore the cream of the crop, highlighting some of the standout releases that graced the latter part of the year.

# Strawberry Cough: A Tactile Delight

The ‚Strawberry Cough‘ SB Dunk High emerged after much anticipation, with initial glimpses dating back to early 2020. Designed by the seasoned collaborator Todd Bratrud, these Dunks boast some of the hairiest suede in recent memory. The seeded strawberry upper adds a delightful tactile element, making each step a sensory pleasure. But it’s not just the texture that sets these Dunks apart; they come equipped with a stealthy stash pocket, allowing wearers to carry their essentials discreetly. This unique feature adds an extra layer of functionality to an already eye-catching pair of sneakers. While the haze surrounding their release persisted for a while, the ‚Strawberry Cough‘ SB Dunk High proved that good things come to those who wait.

# Mummy: Halloween’s Playful Edge

Nike SB concluded its eerie Halloween collection in style with the ‚Mummy‘ Dunk. Glow-in-the-dark soles and a toilet paper graphic on the insoles added a playful touch to the spooky aesthetic. The ‚Mummy‘ Dunk not only embraced the spirit of Halloween but also showcased Nike SB’s knack for infusing fun and creativity into their designs. Amidst the sea of serious and high-profile releases, Nike SB demonstrated that they still know how to have fun with their sneaker creations. The ‚Mummy‘ Dunk raised an intriguing question among sneaker enthusiasts: with all the limited edition details in their playbook, from tearaway panels to glow-in-the-dark elements, how would the brand top this in the coming year? It’s a challenge that keeps sneakerheads eagerly anticipating what Nike SB has in store.

# Next Nature: Sustainability in Every Step

The Next Nature Dunks may appear as just another two-tone colorway at first glance, but their significance goes beyond their visual aesthetics. These Dunks represent a glimpse into the future of sneaker sustainability, an area of growing importance in the industry. What makes these Dunks remarkable is their ability to incorporate recycled materials seamlessly into their design without compromising the familiar Dunk aesthetic. Instead of opting for overtly conceptual designs that might hinder accessibility, Nike chose to make a familiar model better. The ‚Next Nature‘ collection subtly nods to its sustainable roots through its pinwheel insole graphic and lightly speckled midsoles. In a world where sustainability is an increasingly pressing concern, these Dunks showcase a path forward – one where style and eco-consciousness coexist harmoniously. In time, this approach to sustainability may very well become ‚Next Nature‘ in the sneaker industry.

# Parra: A Complex Collaboration

Among the high-profile releases slated for Tokyo 2020, the Parra SB Dunk stood out as the most anticipated. Dutch artist Parra, renowned for his distinct style characterized by bright colors and bespoke branding, lent his creative touch to this Dunk. What makes the Parra SB Dunk truly captivating is the level of complexity it brings to the table. From the bespoke Swoosh branding to hidden tearaway panels, every detail showcases Parra’s artistry and attention to detail. Furthermore, Parra’s involvement with the skate scene dates back to the 1990s through his Fret Click crew and countless deck graphics. This high-profile drop was yet another peak moment for Parra, cementing his status as an influential figure in both the art and sneaker worlds.

# Gundam: Where Sneakers Meet Mecha

The collaboration between the Gundam franchise and Nike SB was an unexpected yet welcomed fusion of two worlds that share a dedicated fanbase. For fans of Gunpla (Gundam model kits) and sneakers, this collaboration was a dream come true. The Swoosh logo, which has become a canvas for creative collaborations in recent years, underwent a dramatic transformation, evolving into a metallic-armored variety that perfectly complemented the mecha-inspired finish on the uppers of these Dunks. As an added bonus, collectors were treated to matching chibi figurines, available exclusively in China, further enhancing the collectability factor of this unique pop culture collaboration. The Gundam Dunk not only celebrated the love for sneakers but also paid homage to the beloved mecha franchise, making it a standout release in 2021.

# Championship Red: A Twist on Tradition

While Nike has mastered the art of producing two-toned ‚Be True To Your School‘ style colorways, the ‚Championship Red‘ Dunk introduced an exciting twist to this classic formula. Instead of featuring the usual white secondary panels, this Dunk reversed the color-blocking, allowing vibrant red to dominate the toe box and mid panels. This reverse color scheme hearkens back to the old CO.JP releases from the late 1990s and early 2000s, a detail that might be lost on newer Dunk fans but serves as a delightful dose of nostalgia for long-time enthusiasts. The ‚Championship Red‘ Dunk demonstrates Nike’s ability to breathe new life into a familiar concept, offering a fresh take on a beloved classic.

# University Red: Dunking into Nostalgia

In the realm of ‚Be True To Your School‘ releases, Nike served up the ‚University Red‘ Dunk, essentially a retro of the ‚St John’s‘ OG. This release captures the Dunk in its purest and most unadulterated form, right down to its nylon tongues. While some purists might argue for a matching lining material to adhere to the 1985 specifications, the mesh variant employed in this 2021 iteration is a practical and commonplace modification. It not only pays homage to the Dunk’s storied history but also makes this release much more accessible to a broader audience. Furthermore, it’s a more budget-friendly option on the secondary market compared to previous editions in similar shades of red. The ‚University Red‘ Dunk invites sneaker enthusiasts to take a trip down memory lane, celebrating the timeless appeal of this iconic silhouette.

As we reflect on the year that was, these standout Nike and Nike SB Dunks serve as a testament to the enduring allure of the Dunk silhouette. From tactile delights to sustainable steps and unexpected collaborations, each release tells a unique story and captures a moment in sneaker culture. Whether you’re a seasoned collector with an extensive sneaker rotation or a casual enthusiast looking to make a statement, these Dunks offer something for everyone. As we eagerly anticipate the sneaker landscape of 2022, let these Dunks stand as a reminder of the creativity and innovation that continue to shape the world of sneakers. In a culture where self-expression and style intersect, the Dunk remains an iconic canvas for sneaker enthusiasts to make their mark. Here’s to another year of sneakerhead delights