I’m always looking to do collaborations with larger companies. We’ve also gotten graphic design work done by designers such as Stussy designer Allister Lee, RVCA’s and Heroin Skateboards contributor Andrew Pommier, and also Yanick Nolet who did some of Girl Skateboard’s designs. In the future, I haven’t actually thought about it, but would definitely like to link up with skate companies such as Girl since they have a lot of energy and also have a strong family vibe.
Where it began.
Founded by Jeff Han in 1999, Fly Streetwear transformed the skating scene in Shanghai, still standing to this day and remaining the spot for many skaters to relax and share their passion for the sport. Nike were very open to Jeff’s ideas, allowing him complete freedom to create a collaboration he could be proud of that represented what he intended.
Inspiration
Drawing inspiration from gardenia flowers, this zesty collaboration with Fly Streetwear sees the Nike SB Dunk Low take on a variety of slick details. Starting with the colourway, a white leather base is overlaid with game royal suede and a patch of key lime green on the heel tab, nodding to the vibrant colours of the gardenia flowers sold on the street corners of Shanghai for decades. Jeff Han is making an effort to preserve Shanghai’s history of street culture, blending two things that have a place there, skateboarding and selling flowers.
Swoosh & Tongue
The swoosh, Nike's iconic logo, takes on a fresh interpretation in this design by adopting the shape of a flower with petals. This floral concept breathes new life into the classic emblem, infusing it with a touch of nature's beauty. The petals are meticulously stitched to give the swoosh a three-dimensional appearance, which adds depth and texture to the shoe's overall aesthetic.
The use of a leather tongue in the design not only provides a luxurious touch but also ensures harmony with the rest of the shoe's upper. This choice of material enhances the shoe's visual appeal, elevating it beyond an ordinary sneaker and into the realm of timeless elegance. The leather tongue also offers durability and comfort, making it as practical as it is stylish.
Insole & Heel
The insoles of these unique sneakers showcase beautiful Chinese calligraphy, a revered art form that has been practiced for thousands of years. This intricate script adds an air of sophistication and cultural depth to the shoe, making it not only a stylish piece of footwear but also a work of art steeped in tradition. The calligraphy's elegant strokes and distinctive characters infuse the insole with a sense of history and refinement, connecting the wearer to the rich heritage of Chinese culture.
On the heel, an embroidered graphic of flowers serves as a nod to a charming custom from times past. Passers-by would pick these fragrant flowers and hang them on their shirts, allowing the pleasant scent to envelop them and create a delightful aromatic experience. This practice highlights the human desire for pleasant fragrances and the appreciation of nature's beauty. The embroidered flowers on the heel serve as a visual and symbolic reminder of this enchanting tradition, evoking a sense of nostalgia and romanticism.
Our Thoughts
We think that the collaboration between Nike and Fly Streetwear is a masterful blend of style, innovation, and cultural heritage. The partnership has given rise to a truly remarkable sneaker, the Nike SB Dunk Low x Fly Streetwear, which exudes a sense of excitement and youthfulness, capturing the very essence of what makes Nike such a beloved brand.
The Nike SB Dunk Low x Fly Streetwear collaboration is a shining example of how two brands can come together to create something fresh and exciting, while remaining true to their respective identities. With its clean design, attention to detail, and integration of cultural elements, this sneaker is poised to become a classic in the world of footwear, capturing the hearts of those who value style, substance, and the stories that connect us to our past.
Check out some of our favourite SB Dunks below.
