ESTABLISHED
1997
HQ
Nike
WHO IS SKATING FOR NIKE SB?
The current Nike SB team consists of several skateboarding heavy hitters, including but certainly not limited to; Eric Koston, Paul Rodriguez, Stefan Janoski, Nyjah Huston, Ishod Wair and Grant Taylor.
WHERE TO BUY NIKE SB DUNKS?
Of course you can always rely on Nike.com to pick up your latest SB releases – but any good skater worth their grip tape knows you should always support your local skate shop.
WHAT IS NIKE SB?
Nike’s foray into the world of skateboarding began in 1997 with a new line of sneakers aimed at skateboarders. With a market already loyal to brands like Emerica, Vans and brands that helped grow the scene, the line failed to take off amongst the skateboarding community.
The early 2000s saw a swift turnaround from the brand thanks to recruiting skateboarding giants like Paul Rodriguez to front the team. With Rodriguez came a line of shoes specifically designed with skateboarders in mind, boasting increased padding, Zoom Air insoles, and enhanced materials, including triple stitching, a standard for skate shoes.
Since then Nike SB has continued to have an influence in the skateboarding industry, establishing themselves among the community with innovation in technology and an eye for emerging skateboarding talent.
1997
Nike manufactures its own line of skate shoes. With the market already in favor of more established brands like DC, Emerica, Vans and eS Footwear, the sports giant is not considered a community-focused brand and the line doesn’t take off.
2002
The introduction of the SB brand brought with it the SB Dunk Low – which boasted a style similar to other skateboarding favorites, riffing on a previous Nike basketball-style sneaker. It resulted in mediocre sales but a small following amongst the community. Another four models, SB Angus, SB FC, SB Delta Force and SB URL are released.
2004-2005
Nike SB signs Paul Rodriguez as a figurehead for the Nike SB team. Later that year, the Nike Dunk SB collection is released, boasting a design specifically aimed at skateboarding – but also capturing the minds of sneakerheads across the world.
Nike SB spokesperson Lance Mountain re-releases the Nike SB Blazer, another updated basketball shoe style. A redesign boasted a padded collar and Zoom Air insoles.
2007
Nike SB releases its first skate video, “Nothing But The Truth.”
Pro skater Elissa Steamer signs with Nike SB, leaving long-term sponsor Etnies. The move makes huge waves for women in skateboarding.
2009
The Nike SB Janoski is released. The sneaker came to represent Nike’s commitment to the community, designed by a member of the team with skaters in mind. Janoski was only the second skater to get a signature shoe at the time, with his sponsorship solidifying the brand’s commitment to the sport.
Skateboarder Eric Koston leaves industry giant Lakai to join Nike.
2011
“SB Chronicles Vol 1.” premieres.
2017
Nike SB debuts the first skate shoe designed for women: the Bruin High, boasting a sculpted fit, a shallower forefoot, and a more tapered heel.
2019
Celebrating 10 years of the Janoski, Nike releases a remastered collection.
Nike releases its first-ever all-female skateboarding video, titled “Gizmo.” Paying tribute to influential skater Elissa Steamer, it also highlights an up-and-coming generation of athletes like Nicole Hause, Lacey Baker, Aori Nishimura and more.
2019-2020
Ben & Jerry’s x Nike SB Dunk Low finally drops.
2021
The Gundam x Nike SB collab becomes one of our favorite collabs of the year.
2022
Neckface’s Nike SB Dunk Low has a lot going on.
Nike SB Dunk x Polaroid is photo-worthy.
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