A few people have asked me to post my thoughts on Dunks hitting Nike ID and...I dunno. I’m down.
I have a strange relationship with Dunks, and I don’t think I’m alone. Like...I think they look awesome and the storylines are second to none. Dunk storylines are *the reason* I got into collecting shoes - I think it was the first time I ever really looked at shoes as something other than a fashion piece...so...something similar to Baseball cards. Dunks are a great looking shoe and I’ve owned quite a few of them, but when it came down to it - I just never really wore them all that much. I’m much quicker to rock an Air Max or something super cushy.
So...even through this new dunk resurgence, I really haven’t worn any of them except my re-dyed and painted @levis SB (bottom pic). Which is kinda dumb. I own a handful that I really like - De La Low’s, Black Levi’s, Biggie’s - and have had my eyes on the Orange Box SB’s for a minute. But I couldn’t imagine paying more than a hundred dollars for any of these non-SB dunks (ie: the Syracuses, Michigans, Ugly Ducklings, etc.) so to see people spending multiple hundreds makes me throw up in my mouth a little. I mean, I get it, it’s a cool shoe and looks awesome and has a great story, but personally I just don’t think they’re worth it.
My dude @rotooki argues that Nike ID is a great thing for those of us who just want to wear our shoes (and not participate in the resale market). And it’s a great argument because it’s nearly impossible to argue against. If Nike gave you the opportunity to re-create virtually the exact same $1k shoe for $120, we’d be able to tell real quick where priorities lie. There’s nothing wrong with flipping or reselling or wearing...everyone has their motivations. I just think something like NikeID levels the playing field.
My thing is...collectors...they collect. A legit limited release is STILL a legit limited release and will *still be collectible to the collectors. Regardless of NikeID or GRs, the line between collectors and wearers will be much ticker. And based on my whole business - sneaker grading FOR COLLECTORS - I’m all for everyone getting what they want. BRING IT ON!