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When it comes to legendary sneakers, few silhouettes have had the cultural impact of the Nike Dunk. Originally introduced in 1985 as a basketball shoe, the Dunk has evolved into a streetwear staple, thanks to collaborations, limited releases, and its classic retro feel. Over the years, general release and collaborative Dunks have dominated sneaker culture, becoming some of the most sought-after shoes on the market.

In this list, we’re counting down the top 10 Nike Dunks of all time, ranking them based on design, influence, rarity, and hype. Let’s dive in.

10. Nike Dunk Low ‘Brazil’

Nike Dunk Low 'Brazil' CU1727-700
  • SKU: CU1727-700
  • Release Date: 2001 (OG), 2020 (Retro)
  • Description: Sporting the vibrant green and yellow of the Brazilian flag, this Dunk release became an instant classic. Its bright color scheme and cultural connection have made it a staple in the Dunk legacy.

9. Nike Dunk ‘Michigan’

Nike Dunk 'Michigan' DD1391-700 (Low)
Low Version
Nike Dunk 'Michigan' CZ8149-700 (High)
High Version
  • SKU: DD1391-700 (Low), CZ8149-700 (High)
  • Release Date: 1985 (OG), various retros
  • Description: Part of the original “Be True to Your School” pack, the Michigan Dunk features the bold Maize and Blue colorway of the University of Michigan. A classic that has been retroed multiple times, it remains one of the most timeless Dunk designs.

8. Nike Dunk Low ‘Coconut Milk’

Nike Dunk Low 'Coconut Milk' DJ6188-100
  • SKU: DJ6188-100
  • Release Date: March 1, 2022
  • Description: The ‘Coconut Milk’ Dunk Low blends soft off-white tones with creamy overlays, making it a standout for those who appreciate subtle, wearable design. With its smooth leather construction and versatile color palette, this pair quickly became a modern classic among Dunk fans.

7. Nike Dunk ‘Syracuse’

Nike Dunk 'Syracuse' CU1726-101 (Low)
Low Version
Nike Dunk 'Syracuse' DD1399-101 (High)
High Version
  • SKU: CU1726-101 (Low), DD1399-101 (High)
  • Release Date: 1985 (OG), various retros
  • Description: Another staple from the “Be True to Your School” pack, the Syracuse Dunk boasts an eye-catching orange and white color combination, making it one of the most recognizable Dunk colorways ever.

6. Nike Dunk Low ‘Reverse Ultraman’

Nike Dunk Low 'Reverse Ultraman' FQ6965-600
  • SKU: FQ6965-600
  • Release Date: May 3, 2024
  • Description: A modern twist on a classic, the ‘Reverse Ultraman’ flips the color blocking of the original Japan-exclusive. Featuring a bold red base with contrasting grey overlays, this release paid homage to the OG while carving out its own place in Dunk history.

5. Nike Dunk Low ‘Argon’

Nike Dunk Low 'Argon' DM0121-400
  • SKU: DM0121-400
  • Release Date: 2002 (OG), 2022 (Retro)
  • Description: Originally released as part of a Japan-exclusive pack, the ‘Argon’ Dunk Low stands out with its rich blue color palette and crisp white Swoosh. Revered by collectors, this vibrant pair made a comeback in 2022, reintroducing its striking look to a new generation of sneakerheads.

4. Nike Dunk Low ‘Viotech’

Nike Dunk Low 'Viotech' 624044-571
  • SKU: 624044-571
  • Release Date: January 1, 2002
  • Description: One of the most vibrant and colorful Dunk releases ever, the Viotech Dunk was a Japan-exclusive release that quickly became a grail. Its bold patchwork of colors set it apart from any other Dunk before it.

3. Nike Dunk High ‘Wu-Tang’

Nike Dunk High 'Wu-Tang' HJ4320-001
  • SKU: HJ4320-001
  • Release Date: 1999 (OG), 2024 (Retro)
  • Description: One of the rarest Dunks ever, the Wu-Tang Dunk High was a special release featuring the group’s iconic black and yellow color scheme with their emblem on the heel. Only 36 pairs were made, making it one of the hardest-to-find Dunks in existence. The much easier to acquire retro was released in 2024.

2. Nike Dunk Low ‘Plum’

Nike Dunk Low 'Plum' CU1726-500
  • SKU: CU1726-500
  • Release Date: 2001 (OG), 2020 (Retro)
  • Description: Originally part of the “Ugly Duckling” pack in 2001, the Plum Dunk featured a rich combination of purple hues with premium suede. Its retro in 2020 only added to its legendary status.

1. Nike Dunk ‘UNLV’

Nike Dunk 'UNLV' DD1391-002 (Low)
Low Version
Nike Dunk 'UNLV' 850477-001 (High)
High Version
  • SKU: DD1391-002 (Low), 850477-001 (High)
  • Release Date: 1985 (OG), various retros
  • Description: Representing the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, the UNLV Dunk’s bold grey and red color scheme is a fan favorite. This colorway was also the inspiration behind the Off-White Dunk collaboration decades later.

Nice Kicks has more information on Nike Dunk and upcoming sneaker release dates.

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