Top 10 Rarest Nike SB Dunk Low Sneakers of All Time
The Nike SB Dunk Low is more than just a sneaker; it’s a cultural icon that has evolved from a skateboarding essential to a streetwear staple. Over the years, Nike has collaborated with designers, artists, and brands to create unique and limited-edition releases, turning some of these sneakers into rare collector’s items worth thousands of dollars. For sneaker enthusiasts and collectors alike, owning a rare Nike SB Dunk Low is akin to having a piece of modern fashion history. Here’s a detailed look at the top 10 rarest Nike SB Dunk Low sneakers of all time and what makes them so coveted.
1. Nike SB Dunk Low “Paris” (2003)
When talking about the rarest SB Dunks, the “Paris” SB Dunk Low stands unrivaled. Released as part of the White Dunk Exhibition in Paris, this sneaker is not just footwear; it’s a piece of art. Only around 150 to 200 pairs were produced, making it one of the most limited Nike SB Dunks ever released.
Design: Each pair is unique, featuring canvas overlays with fragments of art by French painter Bernard Buffet. This combination of artistry and exclusivity has made the “Paris” Dunk a grail for many collectors.
Resale Value: The “Paris” SB Dunk Low has reached prices upwards of $60,000 at auctions and reselling platforms, cementing its status as the pinnacle of rarity in the SB Dunk lineup.
2. Nike SB Dunk Low “Freddy Krueger” (2007)
Inspired by the infamous horror film character Freddy Krueger from A Nightmare on Elm Street, this SB Dunk Low is both eerie and fascinating. Although the sneaker was never officially released due to legal issues with the movie’s rights holders, a few samples found their way into the market.
Design: The shoe incorporates Freddy’s signature red and green striped sweater pattern on the upper, metallic silver detailing, and blood splatter graphics, embodying the horror theme flawlessly.
Rarity: With only a handful of samples in existence, the “Freddy Krueger” SB Dunk is a rare and highly desired sneaker, fetching prices of $30,000 or more on the resale market.
3. Nike SB Dunk Low “Heineken” (2003)
The “Heineken” SB Dunk Low is another legendary sneaker that blends pop culture with design. Released in 2003, this model became an instant classic due to its eye-catching colorway and association with the famous beer brand.
Design: The shoe features the recognizable Heineken green, paired with white and black accents, and a red star near the heel. This subtle nod to the beer label makes it an exciting addition to any collection.
Legal Controversy: The shoe was not an official collaboration with Heineken, which led to its discontinuation, further boosting its rarity. Prices for the “Heineken” Dunk have surpassed $10,000 on the resale market.
4. Nike SB Dunk Low “Yellow Lobster” (2009)
Part of the famed “Lobster” series, the “Yellow Lobster” SB Dunk Low is among the rarest due to its extremely limited distribution. Created in collaboration with Boston-based store Concepts, this sneaker is said to be even more exclusive than the previous “Red” and “Blue” Lobster releases.
Design: The shoe features a striking yellow upper with speckled details that mimic the appearance of lobster shells, complete with a rubber band across the toe box, similar to the bands used on real lobsters’ claws.
Exclusivity: With only 34 pairs known to exist, primarily given to friends and family, this sneaker has become a symbol of exclusivity and a highly sought-after item for die-hard sneakerheads.
5. Nike SB Dunk Low “Staple NYC Pigeon” (2005)
The “Pigeon” SB Dunk Low is more than just a sneaker; it represents a pivotal moment in sneaker culture. Created by designer Jeff Staple and released in 2005, this shoe was so popular that it sparked riots in New York City when it dropped.
Design: The “Pigeon” features a grey colorway with accents of white and orange, and a stitched pigeon on the heel, symbolizing New York City’s urban life.
Impact: Only 150 pairs were released, all exclusively in NYC. The shoe’s release led to chaos outside stores, drawing significant media attention and marking the beginning of the sneaker frenzy we see today. Current resale prices for the “Pigeon” Dunk often range from $25,000 to $40,000.
6. Nike SB Dunk Low “Paris Saint-Germain” (PSG)
The “PSG” SB Dunk Low is a tribute to the French football club Paris Saint-Germain. Released in 2020 as part of a limited run, this sneaker quickly became one of the most coveted releases due to its sleek design and association with the renowned football team.
Design: The shoe features the club’s signature colors, with premium materials and subtle PSG branding, making it not only a collector’s item for sneakerheads but also a must-have for football fans.
Rarity: While not as limited as some of the older releases, the “PSG” Dunk is still difficult to find, particularly in pristine condition. Prices can reach several thousand dollars, depending on size and condition.
7. Nike SB Dunk Low “What the Dunk” (2007)
If there’s one sneaker that epitomizes the phrase “everything but the kitchen sink,” it’s the “What the Dunk” SB Dunk Low. Released in 2007, this sneaker combined elements from multiple iconic SB Dunks, creating a patchwork masterpiece.
Design: Each part of the shoe features details from other SB Dunks, such as the “Supreme,” “Pigeon,” and “Huf” Dunks, making it a celebration of the most popular designs at the time.
Collector’s Item: The eclectic nature and limited release make this a highly prized sneaker. “What the Dunk” pairs often sell for $5,000 to $10,000 or more on the secondary market.
8. Nike SB Dunk Low “Dinosaur Jr.” (2007)
The “Dinosaur Jr.” SB Dunk Low is a tribute to the indie rock band Dinosaur Jr., particularly its frontman J Mascis. Released in 2007, this sneaker captures the spirit of the band with its bold, reflective silver design.
Design: The upper features metallic silver leather with purple accents and the band’s logo on the heel, embodying a distinct and flashy aesthetic that draws attention.
Limited Run: The limited production and unique design have made this sneaker a gem in the eyes of collectors. Prices for the “Dinosaur Jr.” Dunk can reach upwards of $2,000, depending on its condition.
9. Nike SB Dunk Low “Tokyo” (2004)
The “Tokyo” SB Dunk Low is renowned for its minimalistic yet elegant design. Released exclusively in Japan in 2004, only 202 pairs were made, adding to its allure and status as one of the rarest SB Dunks ever produced.
Design: The sneaker features an all-white canvas upper with subtle branding, embodying the concept of “less is more.” The clean aesthetic appeals to those who appreciate simplicity and sophistication.
Market Value: Because of its extreme rarity and iconic status, the “Tokyo” Dunk has sold for over $10,000 in the resale market, with prices fluctuating based on condition.
10. Nike SB Dunk Low “Reverse Skunk” (2020)
The “Reverse Skunk” SB Dunk Low was a surprise release on 4/20 in 2020, paying homage to its predecessor, the original “Skunk” Dunk. Limited to just 420 pairs, this sneaker immediately caught the attention of collectors.
Design: The shoe flips the original colorway, featuring a dark purple upper with green accents and a stash pocket on the tongue, perfect for adding an element of mystery and fun to the design.
Cultural Impact: Given its playful theme and limited release, the “Reverse Skunk” is one of the most sought-after modern SB Dunks, with resale prices reaching $5,000 or more.
Final Thoughts
The Nike SB Dunk Low has cemented itself as a legendary silhouette in both skateboarding and fashion culture. Each of these top 10 rarest SB Dunks carries its unique story, design, and impact on the sneaker world, turning them into highly coveted collectibles. Whether it’s through unique collaborations, limited releases, or cultural references, these sneakers have become symbols of exclusivity and style.
For those lucky enough to own any of these gems, they are not just shoes—they are pieces of sneaker history that represent creativity, community, and the ever-evolving nature of fashion.
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