The Nike SB train is not slowing down. Nike is always at the forefront of the year’s biggest releases, and while Jordan has had a classically huge year, Nike SB has been a welcome newcomer to the most-popular table in 2021.
The wild popularity of Nike SB Dunks hit new heights in 2021 thanks to a handful of exclusive releases and collaborations, so we’re commemorating the year with our favorite releases.
With the help of Hype Clothinga, we’ve taken a retrospective look at the Nike SB Dunks that made 2021 such a special year for the silhouette. From exclusive collaborations to limited-edition releases, these 10 pairs are a solid argument for the Nike SB Dunk being the shoe of 2021.
Released in line with Halloween, the Nike SB Dunk Low Mummy is dressed in off-white bandage-style fabric and features ancient Egyptian symbols as subtle detailing.
This pair of Dunk Highs dropped in collaboration with Gundam to commemorate the brand’s 15th anniversary. Complete with armor detailing and brimming with references for keen Gundam stans, this pair is a collectible of the highest order.
Due to scheduling issues, Parra’s Nike Dunk Low didn’t drop in time for its intended use in the first-ever skating competition in the Olympics. In a way, though, that imbues the shoe with an even better story.
We love a good exclusive collab, but when a fire general release comes along, it feels even more special for some reason.
Nike’s All Conditions Gear arm even got in on the Dunk action this year with this eye-catching Red Plum colorway. We’re loving the speckled sole on this pair.
Understated and bold at the same time, the Classic Green colorway of the Dunk Low is giving us big varsity vibes. That’s another trend we’ve seen hit the big time this year so this pair is a win on both fronts.
Collectors love this pair. With a super rare orange tag under the tongue, this dialed-down colorway holds some coveted secrets. Aesthetically, this versatile palette is a winner, too.
Dressed in Barcelona’s iconic colors, this pair pays homage to the vibrant city with a mismatched, alternating color palette across both shoes.
Referencing the lauded Papa Bear colorway, this reverse iteration features the blue & brown palette but swapped around. Brown suede is the star of the show here while the design retains a red Swoosh from its OG release.
The colorway that debuted on the Jordan 1 silhouette back in 2018 returned this year on the Dunk Low. Losing none of its retro, varsity charm, this pair is a timeless addition to any rotation.
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