Why are Nike Dunks so Popular? (Read This Fast)

Why are Nike Dunks so Popular? (Read This Fast)

Nike Dunks is probably one of the most sought-out and iconic sneakers on the market nowadays. Everyone has a pair of them and it wouldn’t be surprising if you already have one or even thinking of getting one for yourself. With how they are still going at it strong in the current days, you might think they were released in recent years. When in reality, Nike Dunks first dropped in the market back in 1985. So what is the reason behind their long overdue success? Let us enlighten you. 

Why are Nike Dunks so Popular?

Despite falling out of trend shortly after its debut, Nike Dunks regained its popularity around 2010. There are a lot of good factors about the model that assisted greatly in its soaring popularity. Let’s take a look at some of the basic facts that make them as desirable. 

Material

As one of the most popular footwear brands on the market, it’s only expected that Nike uses the finest materials for their Dunks.

Most of their footwear is made out of synthetic leather. The reason is it is cheaper than real leather plus they are just so convenient to clean and maintain. Some of their shoes also use FlyLeather as an alternative. It closely resembles their usual leather, made from at least 50% recycled polyester combined with synthetic materials. 

The swoosh logo which is Nike’s hallmark is usually made out of suede. Besides, their rubber outsole is one of the materials that we must appreciate because they are just effectively long-lasting and durable. And lastly, soft foam is used for the midsole. 

Why are Nike Dunks so Popular? (Read This Fast)
Why are Nike Dunks so Popular? (Read This Fast)
Why are Nike Dunks so Popular? (Read This Fast)

Comfort and Support

Now we get the hype about the looks but the important question is are they comfortable? Let’s break it down from top to bottom. 

First, we have the upper where they usually used leather that is tumbled or perforated. It allows the shoes to be more breathable so your feet don’t drown in sweat in hot weather. 

Then we have the cushion. There is enough padding throughout the construction to provide comfort. But that doesn’t mean it’s lacking the needed support. In fact, the cushioning on the collar assists in supporting your ankle.

The midsole is generally soft foam so your midfoot is cozy enough. And lastly, the standard rubber outsole: it’s flexible, it provides sufficient traction and we love it! But if we want to have an overall idea of the comfort level, our conclusion is that they are comfortable, but not enough for all-day wear.

Why are Nike Dunks so Popular? (Read This Fast)

Durability

When the Dunks first dropped, many predicted that they were most likely to wear down fast. However, despite all the criticism, Nike Dunks are pretty durable. 

The synthetic leather quality is good enough to last a few years even if they are worn regularly. But the rubber sole definitely defeats the upper in durability. In fact, they are sure to well outlast the upper. Overall, even if you wear them on a regular basis, they will last you for a good 1-3 years. However, if used for sports activity, it might go down to around 1 to 1.5 years.

Why are Nike Dunks so Popular? (Read This Fast)
Why are Nike Dunks so Popular? (Read This Fast)
Why are Nike Dunks so Popular? (Read This Fast)

Sizing

Unless you have an unusually wide fit, Nike Dunks fit true to size, for both men and women. For wider feet, it might feel a little snug but nothing too extreme. 

Styling

If you are thinking of how to style your Nike Dunk, don’t think, JUST DO IT. 

Nike dunks are like one of those magic pieces that go with everything. Whether you are going for simple jeans and a t-shirt look or feeling for a more chic and sophisticated impression or just an effortless cool and retro vibe, throw on your dunks. From skirts to jeans to even spice up your formal wear, Dunks can never go wrong.  

Why are Nike Dunks so Popular? (Read This Fast)
Why are Nike Dunks so Popular? (Read This Fast)

Nike Dunk vs Nike SB Dunk

Most of us probably know by now that there are basically two types of dunks, the standard Nike dunk, and the SB dunk. The standard one closely follows the original version of the Nike Dunks released in 1985. Meanwhile, the SB dunks were later released under Nike SB Umbrella with performance modifications, especially for skateboarding. 

Apart from these, there are other definite differences between the two models. Let’s take a look at those.

Tongue

The standard one has a thin, mesh tongue which is upgraded to a thicker and cushiony one in the SB version. The purpose is to provide more protection that prevents the feet from slipping around while skateboarding. Additionally, it helps with the fitting as well.

Why are Nike Dunks so Popular? (Read This Fast)
Nike Dunk – Tongue
Why are Nike Dunks so Popular? (Read This Fast)
Nike SB Dunk – Tongue

Lace

Standard dunks stayed with the regular flat laces that we mostly see on sneakers. Even though they are strong enough to hold up in most normal scenarios, SB dunk decided to use even thicker, rounder, and puffy laces for their shoes. The flat laces are good enough but the oval-shaped SB laces are proved to be durable enough to withstand strains and abrasions. So, it takes longer to wear out. 

Why are Nike Dunks so Popular? (Read This Fast)
Nike Dunk
Why are Nike Dunks so Popular? (Read This Fast)
Nike SB Dunk

Underfoot

They also improved the underfoot or the insole of the SB Dunks to make it more adaptable for skating. One of the most beneficial additions was the zoom air cushioning unit in the insole heel.

This increases the impact absorption ability of the pair. Also, the urethane foam at the forefoot is outstandingly responsive and dense to withstand more shock. The overall padding of the insole is more padded as well than the standard Dunks. 

Why are Nike Dunks so Popular? (Read This Fast)
Nike SB Dunk – Insole

Outsole

This is probably one of the most beneficial updates on the SB Lineups despite not being noticeable in the first look. The outsole traction pattern on the original dunk was already well known for its very effective grip and flexibility. But on the SB versions, they carefully increased the number of rings around the forefoot to provide even more flexibility and extra grip. Additionally, some versions on the SB lineup replaced a small portion of the rubber midsole with foam to reduce weight. 

Why are Nike Dunks so Popular? (Read This Fast)
Nike Dunk Outsole
Why are Nike Dunks so Popular? (Read This Fast)
Nike SB Dunk Outsole

Padding

Throughout the whole construction, SB Dunks has more paddings than the OG Dunks. The improvement is more noticeable in the collar area to better protect the feet.

Stitching

And lastly, there’s a very tiny difference in the stitching of the two pairs. In the Standard Dunks, there is a single line stitching over the swoosh mark. However, it was removed from the SB Dunk design most likely to make it more pleasing to the eye.

You can also read my article on 4 reasons why Nike Dunks are so expensive.

Nike SB Dunk Low: Is It Worth the Hype?

Nike SB Dunks Low is undoubtedly one of the most hyped shoes on the market and it looks like they are not disappearing anytime soon. On roads, on campus, office to home, there is at least one person who has them on. After seeing them on everyone, it’s not surprising to wonder what all the fuss is about. And there’s actually a bunch of reasons.

Why are Nike Dunks so Popular? (Read This Fast)
Nike SB Dunk Low

If we talk about the quality of the shoes, everyone agrees they are just GREAT! They have the quality, the comfort, the flexibility, functionality, and THE LOOKS.

Originally designed for the cool skateboarding staple, they meet all the basic criteria for a good pair of sneakers. But one of the main reasons for their skyrocketing popularity is the limited stock and their reselling value.

Coupled with celebrity endorsements like Travis Scott, it’s only a matter of fact that people went crazy with it. Some of the limited edition pairs are sometimes even resold at twice their original price. 

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Are Nike SB Dunks waterproof?

Ans: there is a premium model “Waterproof” which is waterproof. The other SB models may be waterproof or rainproof to some extent but not entirely. 

2. Can you custom-make Nike Dunks?

Ans: With Nike’s new system “By You “, you can custom make your Nike Dunks.

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