1985 was a big year for Nike; with the first Air Jordan making its release, the company was thriving. As the Jordan grew in popularity so did their debut of the iconic Dunk silhouette. Making its debut the same year, it was a surprise that the Dunk saw just as much success as the AJ 1. Created by Peter Moore, the Dunk was an evolved version of the signature Air Force 1 with slight variants for a more seamless look with the high top. Its initial release wasn’t meant to be a staple sneaker but instead a collegiate-attire piece that fans would wear in support of their favorite division one basketball team. When Nike launched the ‘Be True To Your School’ collection, they introduced colorways that coincided with universities including UNLV, Michigan, St. Johns, Syracuse, Iowa, and Kentucky.  This campaign would be immensely popular as people who didn’t follow college basketball also wanted a pair of the color-block high tops.

As technological advancements progressed the Dunk became outdated in basketball but transformed into the perfect casual sneaker. Other subcultures started adopting the sneaker, the most notable being, the skate community. The sneakers were featured in skate videos throughout the 90s and became even more of a staple. Over time, new renditions started to release including the Retros, the SB’s, and sought-after colorways. The most memorable Dunks of all time include the Be True pack, the ‘Wu-Tang,’ ‘Haze’ by graffiti artist Eric Haze, Travis Scott’s paisley SB Dunk Low, and the ‘Ugly Duckling Pack’ of 2002. 

Within 2021, Nike has been reissuing sought-after colorways from the OG ‘Be True’ collection. From the Varsity Maize to the Team Green, the latest re-release features the familiar palette seen within the Kentucky model. The Nike Dunk High ‘Game Royal’ is set to release on June 11th and highlights all of the signature elements. The two-toned approach is emphasized with its smooth leather upper and synthetic overlays that coincide with the cotton laces. Signature branding takes on the vibrant hue as seen on the Swoosh and woven tag at the tongue. The sneaker comes complete with perforated holes at the toe box for optimal breathability during times of wear.

Grab a more detailed look at the Nike Dunk High ‘Game Royal’ above. Ready to secure your pair? Follow the instructions below to enter the draw and to shop all of our other current releases. 

Feature Release - Friday, June 11th

• Visit the “Releases” page on our site.
• Click your size and enter your information.
• You will be notified the night prior if your entry is granted.

Our Feature Release Draw ends Thursday, 6/10, at 4 p.m. PST. All winners will receive notice the night before the official launch date if they have won.