[Update 29 Mar 2023] The “Setsubun” Dunks saw a release in Asia much earlier but a second wave has been scheduled globally on 11 April. Find them on SNKRS then with a price point of US$120, but fret not if you miss your shot again. They’re currently available on the SNKRDUNK App. Head over!

Having first emerged and subsequently rumoured to release in early 2022, the Nike Dunk Low “Setusbun” is finally releasing on 3rd February this year.

Setsubun (節分), also known as the “Bean-Throwing Festival”, is celebrated in Japan every 2nd, 3rd or 4th February, one day before the start of the spring season as denoted by the old Japanese lunar calendar. According to Japanese culture, the festival involves the throwing of roasted beans around one’s house and at temples and shrines, with the belief that the ritual scares away demons and welcomes good fortune.

Inspired by the traditional festival, Nike is releasing a Dunk Low themed around the lucky beans used during the bean-throwing practice. This upcoming offering features a khaki beige base on its toe box and mid panels, while an amalgam of dark brown and khaki suede dresses its overlays and eyestays.

Violet purple is used on the iconic Swoosh logo on both medial and lateral sides and also on the lining and inners. The festival is further highlighted by a “demon” embroidery on its lateral heel, which in itself is a reference to Tsuno Daishi, The Great Horned Master, from traditional Japanese folklore. To note, the horns of Tsuno Daishi is made up of two Swooshes.

Nike’s eclectic approach to this design and respect for the Japanese culture is further highlighted on its insoles, which features a special artwork of Kintarō, or Golden Boy, a folk hero from Japanese folklore who embodies strength and bravery. The graphic is based off a ukiyo-e done by Utagawa Kuniyoshi in 1840, depicting Kintaro throwing beans to chase off devils and evil spirits.

The Nike Dunk Low PRM “Setsubun” will make its long-awaited release come 3rd February on Asian Nike SNKRS sites, at a retail price of US$120. Take an official look at the intricate pair via the top slider above.

In other sneaker-related news, check out this upcoming Nike Air Max 97 clad in canvas and chenille.