Everyone loves a good comeback story, and if you’re a fan of retro Nike Dunk colourways then you’re in for a real treat this year with many of the most popular iterations from years gone by set to make a return.
Back in the early 2010s, the Nike Dunk, particularly the revered Dunk SB series, witnessed a sharp decline in popularity. Once the epitome of sneaker culture, these skate-inspired silhouettes found themselves eclipsed by a shift in fashion preferences.
However, as we ll know, fashion is cyclical, so fast forward to the 2020s, and the Nike Dunk resurged from the shadows of obscurity to become one of the brand’s biggest sellers.
This return to popularity was fuelled by many iconic colourways, and 2024 sees the return of some of those show-stopping iterations. So without further ado, here’s five Dunks making a welcome comeback this year.
Nike Dunk Low “Veneer”
In 2001, the Veneer emerged as part of the exclusive CO.JP release dubbed the "Ugly Duckling Pack." This collection was known for its entirely suede constructions, featuring bold colour blocks that were reminiscent of vibrant duck feathers.
This particular pair is an exact replica of the original, maintaining the same level of craftsmanship and colouration.
Back in 2020, during the Dunk revival, the colourway made a comeback, albeit not an exact match to the 2001 version. However, the eagerly anticipated 2024 release is set to faithfully recreate the 2001 version to a tee, including the iconic colourways of the Ugly Duckling pack – "Veneer," "Plum," and "Ceramic."
The Dunk Low Veneer showcases green suede on the mudguard, eye stays and heel, creating a striking contrast against the darker brown upper. The toe, quarter panel, mesh collar, tongue and sole boast suede in the same hues.
Playful touches of purple accentuate the lace set, branded logo on the tongue, Nike Swoosh, and heel tab, injecting a burst of colour into this otherwise neutral iteration. The look is completed with a purple rubber sole and a white Dunk midsole, capturing the essence of the iconic Ugly Duckling Pack.
Nike Dunk Low CO.JP ‘Plum’
In 2001, the Dunk Low CO.JP "Plum" debuted, and its triumphant return in 2020 played a pivotal role in resurrecting the iconic Nike silhouette. Considering the striking resemblance to the latest edition, it's reasonable to anticipate that the Retro 2024 will showcase a design and colour combination similar to the OG 2001 version.
The sneakers' colour palette seamlessly blends dark and light purple, gracefully enveloping the entire suede upper. Intense red accents are found on the Swoosh, tongue, heel tab and laces, adding a vibrant contrast.
The rubber and foam midsole, which is painted entirely in white, contributes to a comfortable and balanced fit in these sneakers.
Nike Dunk Low ‘Michigan State’
First introduced in 2006, this one celebrates the spirit of Michigan State University and its distinctive colour scheme. These Dunk Lows proudly display the iconic "Be True To Your School" combo in white and green, mirroring the Spartans team's vibrant colours.
Crafted entirely from leather, these sneakers boast white accents and green layers, while a pop of orange emerges in the Nike Air logo showcased on the insoles. Nike branding is present on both the heel and the nylon tongue, adding to the overall athletic appeal.
The low-top design sits on a robust rubber sole, featuring a traction pattern specifically crafted for basketball courts.
Nike Dunk Low ‘Championship Red’
Another much-awaited return is on the horizon in the form of the Nike Dunk Low Championship Red, slated to make a comeback in the spring of this year.
Staying true to the classic Dunk Low design, this pair maintains the timeless appeal of the Dunk Low line. Dressed in an eye-catching combination of University Red and white, the sneakers showcase an all-leather construction with a stylish two-tone colour-blocking approach.
These kicks make a bold statement with a vivid red focal point that’s complemented by chalk-white overlays. Other elements, such as the logo on the insoles, benefit from accents in an elegant shade of orange.
Nike Dunk Low “Ultraman”
Originally introduced in 1999, the Nike Dunk Low Ultraman made its debut as part of the CO.JP series, which was exclusively available in Japan. This exclusivity heightened its popularity in the West, making it a highly sought-after pair.
Sporting a University Red and Silver colour scheme, the Dunk drew inspiration from the armour of Japanese robot superheroes, earning the moniker Ultraman, which was a character from '70s manga. Despite the nickname, there's no officially recognised link between the Japanese cartoon and the Swoosh brand, but that didn’t stop Nike!
While no images of the 2024 Dunk Ultraman release have surfaced as of yet, credible rumours suggest it will stay faithful to the 1999 model. Anticipated features include an upper crafted from leather combined with mesh lining and tongue.
The shoe is expected to start with a red base, with silver accents on overlays, heel tabs, eyelets, and soles, creating a visually striking contrast.
So those are some of the most anticipated Nike Dunk trainers expected this year. Many of these iterations have played a huge role in the silhouette’s success, and without them who knows where the Dunk lows, highs and mids would be these days?
With this in mind, it’s good to see them making a comeback. But if you’re keen to get your hands on either of these colourways then their inevitable popularity means you’ll need to be ready to pounce when they drop.
If you’re unaware of some of the most rare Nike trainers, then browse our range as we have countless pairs for you to choose from.
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