In 2003, two pairs of Nike Dunks were created to be sold at a charity auction. One pair went to a mystery buyer for 23,000 US dollars while the other pair was publicly cut into pieces so the same buyer would have the distinction of being the sole owner of the only pair of Nike Dunks in existence—a 1 of 1.
Years later, it was revealed that the mystery buyer was none other than the great Sandy Bodecker, Nike's own VP of Special Projects, a designer and legend in the skateboarding and sneaker world. Although never officially confirmed, the Nike SB line of shoes and apparel for skateboarding is thought to be named after him.
Now on the 20th anniversary of its initial release, the Nike Dunks are back, much to the delight of sneakerheads everywhere. Now called the SB Sandy, it’s a tribute to Bodecker—who passed away in 2018–and to his legacy and impact on the sport and sneaker culture. Here’s a closer look at the SB Sandy.
Materials
A mix of patent and semisoft leather, with plastics thrown in. The materials aren't top caliber—I’d say they're at par with the average Nike SB Dunk release—but if used with care, it should resist blemishes. Biggest problem would probably be the see through plastics and transluscent parts of the sole - they'll most likely yellow with age. The transluscent parts also don’t line up perfectly with the upper shoe, but that’s a manufacturing problem now almost impossible to correct. Rating: B
Design
They’re made to catch the eye. And in a move that can only be called terrific storytelling, the shoe simulates the look of the Dunk that was cut into three and magically put together again for its 20th anniversary release. The frayed threads at the transluscent plastic joints show this, while the SB Forever backtabs are additional nods to Bodecker. While not the first "see thru" sneaker, these are unique. The transparent parts make sense because they reveal its “broken” past. The insoles are also special, one showing the late Bodecker with his child and the other showing the original maimed Dunk. Rating: A
Wearability
Originally and unofficially known as the Ebay Dunks (because, well, it shares the same colors with the online marketplace logo), these are not for the conservative and timid. They’re best worn with muted outfits where they can shine. Not the type of sneaker you can just slip on and expect it to go with everything. Better make sure your sock game is on point (I’ve observed they look great with colorful socks), and expect people to stare and ask you about them—the shoes and the socks. But whatever you end up deciding to wear with these sneakers, please please please wear socks. Rating: B+
Pricing
They dropped locally for P6,895 but instantly sold out. On the secondary market, they’re currently floating around the P12,000 to 18,000 range. Hefty, but not the worst resell price I’ve seen for a limited sneaker. Rating: B
Final word
Again in Rhobeelicious speak, these would be the original recipe Tropical Hut Hamburger: tasty, unique, a standout. Leaving you wishing they never took it off the menu.
Photos by Rhobee Pilares