the Long-awaited collaboration arrives

clan in da front - The origin story

The Nike Dunk High is one of my favourite footwear silhouettes. It’s versatile, sturdy and timeless while also pairing well with so many looks. The shoe was first released in1985, originally called the College Colour High, and formed part of a pack of colour-coordinated products for university basketball teams in the US.

The Nike Dunk’s design was influenced by several other popular basketball shoes that were prominent at the time, including the Terminator and the Jordan 1. In the late 1990’s, the shoe gained popularity among skateboarders and led to the Nike SB variation being created, featuring in another arena of sports and style. At the same time, the original idea for a Wu-Tang X Nike Dunk collaboration was formed, with an extremely limited drop of a meagre 36 pairs being released.

reunited

25 years later, the sneaker has had a few minor design tweaks from the original and is set for a wide release across the globe - the Killa Beez are on the move. Featuring the Black and Pollen colourway in premium leather, initially used in the original, along with the famous Wu “W” embroidered on the tongue and heel, the sneaker stays true to its origins and looks to be revered as a timeless classic – paying homage to one of the greatest hip hop groups to have ever done it.

Nike x Wu-Tang Dunk High

bringin’ da ruckus

“These Dunks are important to me and the Wu-Tang legacy because of the cultural impact they’ve had since their original release,” says Wu-Tang Clan leader RZA. “For many years, the sneaker world was reserved for athletes and some entertainers, and Nike recognising us in this way is a testament to hip-hop and our contribution to culture.”

The fusion of hip hop and fashion has been around for decades, and some could say the Wu-Tang Clan were instrumental in the development of this crossover. Wu-Wear was one of the first fashion labels inspired by a hip hop group that I ever came across - infusing their gritty, New York style of rap and kung-fu inspired elements into the pieces - the brand really stood out, introducing a new creative perspective of streetwear driven by the experiences of artists that grew up on said streets. The Wu continued to expand their presence beyond music into art, fashion and film - and their legacy continues to shine through with this collaboration, signifying a stalwart style of both music and footwear.

Wu-Tang Forever 👐

Available at SNKRS from 9 Nov 2024