The Tightbooth x Nike SB Dunk Low Is a Can’t-Miss Nod to the Japanese Skateboarding Scene

Japanese skateboarding legend Shinpei Ueno has had skaters and SB Dunk collectors on notice ever since he first teased Tightbooth’s debut Nike collaboration in July. Now, Nike has confirmed the SB Dunk Low for a mid-November release that’s a lock as one of the highlights of a crowded holiday field.

Founded by Ueno in 2005 in Osaka, Tightbooth is both a skate crew and brand famous for its Lenz video parts and drapey garms. It’s a crucial part of the Japanese skateboarding scene and as obvious of a choice as gets for the honor that is getting an SB Dunk.

Featuring a black and white look, Tightbooth’s SB Dunk Low applies the texture of metal grates to its white leather overlays as a nod to the streets where Ueno and crew have flourished. High-vis detailing then comes through scant orange detailing throughout, most prominently a Tightbooth tag hanging off the reflective Swoosh. Atypical and asymmetrical branding arrives on the dotted tongue, while Nike’s word mark is now cut into the mustache.

Earlier this year, Japanese skater and the sport’s first Olympic Gold medalist Yuto Horigome also got his first Nike SB Dunk. Together, the two sneakers represent two sides of Japan’s skateboarding ecosystem: the more polished scene highlighted by the Olympics and the grimier, more cutting-edge spirit embodied by those less interested in sanctioned competitions. Throw in April Skateboards’ upcoming release and you’ve also got a robust year for SB Dunk freshman.

The Tightbooth x Nike SB Dunk Low will release Nov. 14 through the SNKRS app, with select local skate shops also getting stock. Retail is set at $135.

About the Author:

Ian Servantes is a Senior Trending News Editor for Footwear News specializing in sneaker coverage. He’s previously reported on streetwear and sneakers at Input and Highsnobiety after beginning his career on the pop culture beat. He subscribes to the idea that “ball is life” and doesn’t fuss over his kicks getting dirty.