The Nike SB Dunk High FPAR, a collaboration between Nike SB and the Japanese streetwear label Forty Percent Against Rights (FPAR), materialized in October 2019. This partnership marked a significant moment, uniting the skateboarding division of Nike with a label known for its subversive design philosophy. The genesis of this project lies in the shared values of pushing boundaries and challenging conventional norms.
Primarily designed for skateboarding and casual wear, the SB Dunk High FPAR provides a blend of performance and style. The Zoom Air-equipped insole delivers responsive cushioning, enhancing comfort during intense activity. The matte black rubber outsole, with its multidirectional tread, ensures superior grip and board feel, making it suitable for both skateboarding and everyday use.
The influence of the SB Dunk High FPAR is substantial, resonating deeply within skateboarding and streetwear cultures. Tetsu Nishiyama, the founder of FPAR, and his philosophy of challenging norms through design, is a key figure. The shoe's design, along with messages like 'Don't Follow Me,' directly embodies this ethos. This collaboration solidified the SB Dunk's status as a coveted item, highly sought after by collectors and style enthusiasts alike.
The SB Dunk High FPAR boasts a high-top silhouette, drawing inspiration from the Air Jordan 5 and Air Jordan 6, resulting in a unique hybrid design. The shoe's construction blends premium materials, including leather, suede, and mesh, with synthetic elements for durability and breathability. Distinctive features include the Air Jordan 6 tongue, the Air Jordan 5 netting on the Swoosh, and the custom co-branded lace lock.