Since its debut in 1985, the Nike Dunk Low has evolved from a performance basketball sneaker to a lifestyle staple, foregoing university team colors in favor of a variety of trendy and innovative outfits. Recently, the late Peter Moore’s classic design reappeared in an unassuming ensemble inspired by Beaverton, Oregon fishing traditions.
All elements of this shoe are eye-catching and cohesive
While the color palette is understated, the newly-released Nike Dunk makes a statement with its materials. To begin, smooth leather is replaced with ballistic nylon, a tribute to the equipment required to efficiently fish. Suede enters the mix along the forefoot, along the tongue, and across the heel, adding texture and “warmth” to the pair for the early morning low temps that often find fishermen out on or near the ocean. The scale-like finish on the profile swooshes and upper heel panel, on the other hand, steal the show, with the former also including a hook modification on the lateral side. The nylon on the tongue is a light blue tone that acts as a “body of water” for the fish logo printed on the tongue label; the tag also states “Nike Beaverton 1972,” a message that also appears on the sock-liners. Finally, the midsole sole pieces are semi-yellow, leaving the traction in a speckled light grey tone that complements the suede above.
Conclusion
This release was a design success, combining features of Nike’s hallmark basketball line with the rugged, outdoorsy Dunk. This particular colorway is amazing to look at because the way the materials are put together is one of the closest I’ve seen to this theme being used on another shoe silhouette.
