HBCU-affiliated sneakerheads are geeking over Nike’s upcoming Dunk Low colorways that are inspired by a few powerhouse colleges: Clark Atlanta University (CAU), Florida A&M University (FAMU) and North Carolina A&T State University (NC A&T).
Nike first started experimenting with college-themed sneakers back in the 1980s, when the brand unveiled a series of “College Color High” kicks that were inspired by then-Nike-sponsored institutions: University of Michigan, Georgetown, University of Kentucky, Syracuse, University of Iowa, St. John’s University and the University of Nevada, Las Vegas.
Now, Nike is looking to bring HBCUs into the trend by unveiling Dunk Low colorways inspired by some of these illustrious institutions.
While Nike hasn’t formally spoken on the HBCU-themed sneakers, leaked photos of the shoes have made their way onto the internet, giving consumers an idea of what to expect.
Check out some of the specifics down below.
Clark Atlanta University
Photos of the CAU colorways were the first of the HBCU Dunk pack to leak online. Specifically, the images were uploaded by an Instagram sneaker account called @kicksdong.
The shoes feature white, red and black accents throughout, and “FIND A WAY OR MAKE ONE,” which is taken from the school’s motto, is emblazoned on the laces.
Additionally, the sneaker features “1988” on the heel tab, referencing the year when Clark College and Atlanta University merged into Clark Atlanta University.
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Florida A&M University
Next is the FAMU sneaker, known as the “FAMULY x Nike Dunk Low.” The shoe features the Tallahassee, Florida, university’s signature orange and green colors.
An image of a rattler, the university’s mascot, is on the shoe’s tongue.
Additionally, the sneaker has “COLAC” (aka College of Love And Charity) and “We Bragg Different” embroidered onto it.
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North Carolina A&T State University
Finally, we have the NC A&T Dunk Low, the “Ayantee.”
This sneaker has a bit of a more neutral colorway, primarily gray and white. However, the HBCU’s gold and blue colors accentuate the shoe, so it’s def showing Aggie pride.
The heel tab features 1891, the year NC A&T was established, and a bold A&T is present on the tongue.
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The collective HBCU Dunk pack is set to release later this year, though the specifics regarding pricing and sizing are currently unclear.
Will you be copping a pair of Nike x HBCU Dunk Lows?
