The Nike Dunk and Air Force 1 are two iconic sneakers, each with a distinct identity that might not be obvious at first glance. If you’re wondering how to tell them apart or which one to add to your collection, you’ve come to the right place.
This guide breaks down the key differences in design, functionality, and price, offering a clear comparison to help you make an informed decision. We’ll also take a trip back in time to explore the origins of these legendary shoes. By delving into their history and unique features, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for what makes each of them a timeless classic. With that in mind, let's begin with a history lesson...
History
Air Force 1 Timeline
- 1982: The Air Force 1 debuts as a top-tier basketball shoe designed by Bruce Kilgore, competing with Converse and adidas on the court.
- 1983: Nike launches the "Original Six" campaign, featuring six popular NBA players to promote the Air Force 1. Despite the effort, the original #4190 design is eventually discontinued.
- Mid-1980s: Retailers and consumers demand the shoe's return, according to Nike. Nike agrees, provided Baltimore retailers purchase 1,200 pairs in two colorways: white/Royal Blue and white/Chocolate Brown.
- "Colour of the Month" Series: These releases help revive the Air Force 1, establishing its path toward iconic status.
- Present Day: The Air Force 1 is celebrated as a timeless classic in fashion, style, and comfort, making it one of the best Nike shoes on the market today.
Nike Dunk Timeline
- 1985: Peter Moore designs the Nike Dunk, inspired by America's leading basketball schools. The first 12 Dunk colorways are tailored for the college basketball market.
- Design Similarities: The Dunk shares design elements with the Jordan 1, which Moore also worked on, notably the "Banned" 1s colorway, aka the original Jordan 1.
- Early 2000s: Nike launches the Dunk Low Pro SB, a modified version designed for skateboarding. Structural updates focus on comfort and safety for skaters.
- Present Day: Both the Dunk and Dunk SB lines thrive, with new designs and collaborations regularly released to honor the model's history while keeping it relevant over 30 years after its debut.
Price
Now that you've delved into the history of Nike Dunks and Air Force 1s, you might be thinking about picking up a pair for yourself. If so, you’re probably curious about which model is more affordable.
Currently, both Low and High Air Force 1s are priced similarly to some of the best low-top and high-top Dunks, including most SBs. For example, you can buy a pair of "Panda" Dunk Lows at the same retail price as a pair of "White Swoosh Panda" Air Force 1 Lows.
However, it’s important to note that both Nike Dunks and Air Force 1s can be significantly more expensive on the resale market, especially when it comes to collaborations. For instance, the Cactus Plant Flea Market Air Force 1s and the CLOT Nike Dunks are prime examples of how costly these special edition releases can become. This is worth keeping in mind if the Dunks of Air Force 1s you desire are sold out. If so, make sure you do your research and assess where you can buy the shoes you want at the best price on the resale market.
Design
From a design standpoint, it's no surprise that the Air Force 1 and Nike Dunk share numerous similarities. Both models emerged during a golden era of basketball, debuting around the same time and reflecting the style and innovation of that period.
The key difference between these two sneakers is the Air Force 1's integration of Nike's Air technology within its midsoles, a feature notably absent in the Dunk. It is all about the Air, in essence, as this technological distinction sets them apart, despite their shared origins and similar design influences.
Nike Air is essentially a collection of air bubbles that are designed to compress under feet to improve cushioning and, in turn, comfort. As a result, you may find Air Force 1s to be the slightly more comfortable of the two, particularly if you're wearing them all day.
Design and looks-wise, Dunks and Air Force 1s are still closely related, despite the lack of Air in Dunks. This makes them some of the closest relatives to the Air Force 1 in Nike's lineup. Both shoes feature prominent midsoles, large Swooshes on the sides, and a comparable panel layout. While the color combinations might differ slightly, the overall aesthetic remains similar.
A key difference, however, is in the midsole size. The Air Force 1 typically has a larger midsole, thanks to its integrated Air technology. Additionally, Air Force 1 Highs usually include ankle straps, a feature often absent in Dunk Highs. Finally, a closer look at the toebox will reveal there are more air hole perforations in a Dunk than there are an Air Force 1, although you really do have to get close to spot this minor separation.
Despite these differences, the similarities between the two designs can make it difficult to distinguish them at times, hence why choosing between them can be such a headache.
Nike Dunk vs Air Force 1: Which is best?
Choosing between the Nike Air Force 1 and the Nike Dunk is a tough decision. Both have a great look and a rich history of innovation.
The Air Force 1 is the older of the two, which gives it a deeper background and a longer legacy. It's also slightly more comfortable, thanks to the Nike Air bubbles in the midsoles. As an owner of Air Force 1s, I can personally attest to how comfortable they are.
By contrast, the Nike Dunk has a rich history too and even has a dedicated Dunk SB range for skateboarding. This means choosing between them will come down to personal preference since they're both fantastic sneakers that are hard to separate.
If you are struggling to pick between them though, then we'd recommend heading to your local sneaker store and seeing if you can try on both models to see which of the two you prefer on your feet.
Final Thoughts
In the end, whether you choose the Nike Dunk or the Air Force 1, you’re investing in a piece of sneaker history. Both models offer timeless style, rich heritage, and incredible versatility, making either a great addition to your collection. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal preferences and how you plan to wear them. So, take your time, try them on if you can, and pick the pair that feels right for you.