Low-Top Legends Comparision: Nike Dunk Low vs Air Jordan 1 Low

Get the lowdown on which pair suits your sneaker game best from two sneaker legends.

This is the ’80s, and high-top sneakers rule the court. But lurking in their shadows are their cooler, more laid-back siblings: the low tops. Among these, the Nike Dunk Low and the Air Jordan 1 Low.

A twist on history

1985 gave us not only the Air Jordan 1, but also its doppelgänger, the Nike Dunk.

As a result of Michael Jordan’s legendary feats, the Air Jordan 1 skyrocketed in popularity. A similar-looking, yet vastly different high-top sneaker hit the shelves less than half a year later: the Nike Dunk, in its now iconic “Be True To Your School” (BTTYS) colorway.

At first, Nike Dunk was overshadowed, especially since MJ continued to release new Air Jordan silhouettes every year. The Dunk didn’t find its true calling until the late 1990s, when skaters used it on half-pipes rather than on the basketball court.

In recent years, the Dunk has experienced a renaissance, fueled by pop culture icons like Travis Scott and many coveted Nike SB Dunk Low releases.

Like siblings, these shoes have similar looks, but they also have quirks and unique characteristics.

Are Dunks Jordans?

Nike Dunks and Jordans are members of distinct branches of Nike’s sneaker family tree. While they have similar aesthetics, Dunks are not part of the Jordan Brand family.

Since its inception, the Dunk has been known as a versatile silhouette that isn’t tethered to any specific subcategory. Air Jordans, which are officially categorized under the Jordan Brand, were designed by Peter Moore, Tinker Hatfield, and Bruce Kilgore, and they continue to release new models each year.

Air Jordan 1 vs. Nike Dunk Low: What’s the difference?

Despite the fact that both Nike Dunk Low and Air Jordan 1 Low have walked paths peppered with endless variations and special editions, here we are focusing on the general release models.

Aesthetics and Design

Blocking colors

In addition to its clean lines and signature color blocking, the Dunk Low shares many similarities with the Air Jordan 1, probably where the confusion begins.

A profile of

From a visual standpoint, the Dunk Low also carries a slightly more rigid aesthetic, which aligns well with current fashion trends as a casual sneaker.

The Air Jordan 1 Low exudes an athletic appearance, standing slightly taller than the Dunk. The upper usually sports a more curvy appearance down to the toe box, with more panels and stitching.

The tongue

Likewise, the Dunk Low has the classic 1980s tongue, complete with the iconic Nike logo on a separate tab. This feature not only adds a vintage touch, but also distinguishes it from the AJ1 Low.

On most general releases of the AJ1 Low, the Jumpman emblem appears on the tongue, but some “OG” and “Retro” versions may have Nike Air branding.

The eyelets

The Air Jordan 1 Low, on the other hand, typically features fewer eyelets, contributing to its more streamlined and aerodynamic appearance.

The midsole

There is a big difference between the two in the midsole, where the Dunk’s cut emphasizes an hourglass shape.

Branding

In addition to the iconic Air Jordan “Wings” logo stitched on the heel, the AJ1 Low has a more understated branding than the Dunk.

Tech Underfoot

Lightweight foam padding, heritage pivot circle, but no “Air” technology, so expect a firmer step. It features an Air technology midsole for springy comfort, a rubber outsole for traction, and functional perforations for breathability. However, modern Dunks and AJ1 Lows don’t always follow this rule. There have been instances where Air-infused soles have been added to a Dunk Low (especially with the SB Dunks), and vice-versa.

Performance and comfort

Its cushioned tongue and collars, as well as a foam insole, provide a snug fit and comfortable cushioning, as well as a more spacious toe box than the AJ1 Low.

The Air Jordan 1 Low features an Air-Sole unit embedded in the heel, which offers a soft, cushioned feel with each step. In some models, the AJ1 Low also features a Nike FlyEase closure system, which provides a strap and zipper for ease of wear.

In summary, although the Nike Dunk Low and Air Jordan 1 Low are icons of sneaker fashion and have features aimed at comfort, they might not be the best choice if your primary concern is enduring comfort for all-day wear. Their strength lies in their style, history, and occasional comfort, ideal for those who value a combination of fashion and functionality.

Our experience has been that the Nike Dunk Low offers a snugger, easier-to-wear fit, making it a more versatile sneaker to wear every day and often carrying a greater selection of colorways and collaborations.

The AJ1 Lows, however, offer a soft, cushioned touch with each step. While it’s not immediately apparent, you’ll feel the difference after wearing both for an extended period of time. It’s not saying that the AJ1 Low is the most comfortable Nike shoe ever, but if you’ve walked in a Dunk for the entire day, it’s a big step up from the Dunks.

Popularity and cultural impact

Often seen on celebrities, the Nike Dunk Low is a staple of skate culture and street fashion.

The Air Jordan 1 Low has a profound impact on basketball, hip-hop culture, and fashion.

For street cred and trendiness, Dunk Low is your man. For iconic status, AJ1 Low is your man.

For many, many years, the Nike Dunk Low has received a resurgence unlike anything else in the sneaker and fashion industries.

Through constant celebrity appearances and collaborations, it has become the Swoosh’s crème de la crème. As a sneaker that fits anyone in any situation, it has struck a chord with the general consumer population. There are a few special projects like Travis Scott’s AJ1 Lows and Zion Williamson’s “Voodoo” but the AJ1 Low’s popularity doesn’t quite match up to the Dunk Low.

As a sneaker, however, the AJ1 Low is not a slouch either. Especially when the iconic “Chicago”, “Bred”, or “Royal” colorways return for another run, this basketball and hip-hop-infused silhouette continues to be a staple for hardcore Jordan fans.

Both Nike Dunk Low and Air Jordan 1 Low have their own unique charms. The Air Jordan 1 Low stands out for its iconic design and technology, but the Dunk Low stands out for its commitment to quality materials. Both are more than just shoes; they tell stories through their design, performance, and cultural impact.

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