The charm of Nike SB has always been the backstories and the tales behind their shoe designs and collabs. Unlike other sneaker lines that rely on aesthetics alone, Nike SB, the Dunks in particular will always have a design rationale or inspiration regarding their make and build.
Speaking of make and build, this Nike Dunk that we’ve got here on our hands was created from a designer and a fan’s point of view. Just by staring at this Gundam collaboration Nike SB Dunk High, you can feel the fandom and geekery just by looking at it firsthand.
Remember months ago when we posted about the possibility of its release? Well, thank heavens they became official.
The Materials
Boasting of a rich assembly of leather uppers constructed on top of each other, this probably goes down as one of the best material choices we’ve seen on a Dunk SB in a long while. The main star of the show here though are the removable velcro styled swooshes. Inspired by the Gundam Banshee’s horns, the Swooshes themselves are textured and shaped very near to its source of inspiration. The mesh tongue provides a rich contrast to the whole creation.
What’s New?
Still sticking to the traditional Nike Dunk High look, the designers here definitely did their homework. The mech lining on the toebox is innovative and fresh. In fact, it’s very rare that they would even add something new to it. The paneling, the symmetry all fall perfectly into place. The shoe itself is a masterpiece. As we’ve mentioned earlier, it’s pretty rare to see Nike do crazy things to the Swoosh. Though the velcro thing is already done a lot, they give us two color options for the textured Swooshes.
And we’ve got four color options on the laces. When Nike does that, it confirms that the shoe is indeed special. Also, the shoe comes with some decal sheets which we doubt will be used on the shoe but still adds up to the experience.
The Sizing
As with all Nike Dunk SBs, we recommend going half a size up on them as they fit pretty snug. Considering the absence of the holes on the toebox, your feet will thank you too if you’ll give them some wiggle room as leather tends to be less breathable than mesh.
Where To Buy Them
Locally launched as WeLegendary‘s Nike SB comeback shoe, it was released on a raffle basis–which they held twice. We were lucky enough to win a pair for retail which is Php 5895.
Just after a few days after its release, we’re seeing pairs in the secondary market go for Php 20,000 up…that’s just the way it goes.
Nike x Gundam SB Dunk High Banshee Verdict
Probably one of the best releases we’ve seen this year, this one is a must have! Gundam fan or not, this one is an interesting release that combines pop culture with exceptional sneaker design. One look at the pair and you’ll say it was done with a lot of heart. Now if only we can grab a pair of the Unicorns then we’d call it a day! Highly recommended.
Oh, do check out our closer look at the Nike By You 7-11 Dunks here.
