The NIKE DUNK "MICHIGAN" and Japan's Sneaker Scene
Today, we’re introducing the "University of Michigan" model from the NIKE DUNK series and diving into its history within Japan’s sneaker scene.
◇What is the NIKE DUNK?
In 1985, NIKE launched the "BE TRUE TO YOUR SCHOOL" project to promote NCAA college basketball. As part of this campaign, NIKE developed the DUNK model as a promotional shoe for various universities.
NIKE incorporated the school colors of seven colleges into these DUNKs, which players wore during games. The release quickly made waves throughout the sneaker industry.
Among the featured schools was the University of Michigan.
In Japan, the vintage boom that started around 1992 propelled the DUNK to explosive popularity, and today it stands as one of the most recognizable models in the country.
Adding fuel to this trend was the influence of Hiroshi Fujiwara, a major figure in Japan’s "Urahara" (Harajuku street) culture. When Fujiwara featured the DUNK in magazines, the model’s popularity surged even further. (Fun fact: Fujiwara himself used to wear the DUNKs for skateboarding!)
Source: "All Sneakers of Hiroshi Fujiwara" by SHOES MASTER editorial team
The original 1985 model became such an icon in the sneaker and fashion scene that it even sparked numerous fake versions.
In 1998, NIKE brought back this coveted model with its first reissue through a Japan-exclusive project. Although the design wasn't a perfect replica—differences like a contrasting heel tab set it apart from the original—this reissue marked an eagerly awaited moment for sneaker fans.
Top: 1985 model / Bottom: 1998 model
Front: 1985 model / Back: 1998 model
Since then, the "Michigan" DUNK has seen five additional reissues in 2003, 2005 (SB), 2008, 2016, and 2020, cementing its reputation as Japan’s most beloved DUNK.
A pair everyone wants to own at least once—why not add it to your collection?