[Update 6 Jan 2023] The wait is finally over! Nike has officially unveiled official images of the Pawnshop x Nike SB Dunk High “Old Soul”, along with a confirmed release date of 14th Jan 2023 at a retail price of US$125. These will release on Nike SNKRS, Pawnshop’s official website as well as selected skate shops.

[Update 7 Aug] Official images of an on-foot look of the SB Dunks were released. Unfortunately, the anticipation continues as there isn’t an official release date yet. Till then, enjoy the new photos and feel free to imagine where they’d fit with the rest of your wardrobe!

The Air Jordans blew the roof off in sneaker culture, then Nike SB took it to the stratosphere. The latter is as much responsible for the plethora of collaborations that permeate the market these days. It was a SB Dunk that brought the culture to the mainstream in the early naughties and in the words of Drake, “Nothing was the same (since).” But that’s a story for another day.

This line of Dunks have always survived and thrived on partnerships and continue to do so 20 years on. It’s perfected a strategy that still allow it to be the Hyperion tree in a landscape dense with competition. Collaborations will always be an inherent chapter in the SB Dunks’ journey, and Pawnshop Skate Co. will carry the torch through another mile.

From what’s discernible in the photos, the shoes will be premium-made. High quality leather makes up the body of the sneaker, from the toe cap, the Swoosh, and heel counter; with brown hues complementing the black. Meanwhile, the golden accents stands in contrast on some of its fineries. The debossed co-branding on the tongue tab and the Pawnshop’s heritage mark on the underside. Indubitably, the nucleus of the collaboration are the gilded wings above the Swooshes, a nod to their signature “Wing & Wheel” logo.

There’s no release date yet but it should be announced in the coming months, along with where they’ll be dropping and the price tag. Until then, kick and push, then coast… and away you go, be a rebel to the world with no place to go. (24-year old Lupe Fiasco would’ve loved these!)

In other skate shoe collaborations, have a first look at the Bianca Chandon x Vault by Vans Distressed Sneakers.