Since its debut in 1985, the Nike Dunk has grown from a basketball sneaker to a streetwear essential. Thanks to bold colorways, retro releases, and iconic collaborations, Dunks continue to dominate sneaker culture nearly 40 years later.
This list ranks the top 10 Nike Dunks ever, based on design, cultural influence, rarity, and overall hype.
10. Nike Dunk Low ‘Brazil’
SKU: CU1727-700 | Release: 2001 (OG), 2020 (Retro)
Inspired by Brazil’s national colors, this Dunk blends vibrant green and yellow for a bold statement. Its cultural tie and vivid palette made it a fan favorite.
9. Nike Dunk ‘Michigan’ (High & Low)
SKU: DD1391-700 (Low), CZ8149-700 (High) | Release: 1985 (OG), various retros
Part of the original “Be True to Your School” pack, the Maize and Blue design honors the University of Michigan. A Dunk staple through the years.
8. Nike Dunk Low ‘Coconut Milk’
SKU: DJ6188-100 | Release: March 1, 2022
Subtle yet stylish, this pair mixes off-white and cream tones for an understated classic. Loved for its versatility and clean design.
7. Nike Dunk ‘Syracuse’ (High & Low)
SKU: CU1726-101 (Low), DD1399-101 (High) | Release: 1985 (OG), various retros
Another “Be True” original, this orange-and-white colorway remains one of the most recognizable and enduring Dunks.
6. Nike Dunk Low ‘Reverse Ultraman’
SKU: FQ6965-600 | Release: May 3, 2024
A nod to the original Japan-only release, this version inverts the Ultraman color blocking, blending bold red with grey for a fresh modern tribute.
5. Nike Dunk Low ‘Argon’
SKU: DM0121-400 | Release: 2002 (OG), 2022 (Retro)
First released in Japan, the Argon’s deep blue hues and white Swoosh made it a standout. Its 2022 retro brought it to a wider audience.
4. Nike Dunk Low ‘Viotech’
SKU: 624044-571 | Release: January 1, 2002
Known for its wild patchwork of colors, the Viotech was a Japan-exclusive release that became an instant collector’s item.
3. Nike Dunk High ‘Wu-Tang’
SKU: HJ4320-001 | Release: 1999 (OG), 2024 (Retro)
Only 36 pairs of the OG Wu-Tang Dunks were made, featuring the rap group’s signature black and yellow. A rare gem, retroed in 2024.
2. Nike Dunk Low ‘Plum’
SKU: CU1726-500 | Release: 2001 (OG), 2020 (Retro)
Part of the “Ugly Duckling” trio, the Plum Dunk’s purple suede panels earned cult status. Its 2020 reissue cemented its legend.
1. Nike Dunk ‘UNLV’ (High & Low)
SKU: DD1391-002 (Low), 850477-001 (High) | Release: 1985 (OG), various retros
Originally made for the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, the grey and red colorway is iconic. Its influence extended to future collabs, including Off-White’s Dunk series.
