Albino & Preto's Nike SB Dunk Low: The Ultimate Jiu-Jitsu Sneaker Takes Center Stage

After an extensive period of anticipation that seemed to stretch on endlessly, the Albino & Preto x Nike SB Dunk Low collaboration has now been officially verified. In partnership with the jiu-jitsu gear brand and all-around trendy streetwear label, this specific pair draws abundant inspiration from the world of martial arts. 

Since 2011, Albino & Preto has been a prominent advocate for integrating jiu-jitsu into contemporary culture. Initially, the brand focused on producing apparel and gear for Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) practitioners, but it has since broadened its range to encompass items such as varsity jackets, T-shirts, and shorts. For its inaugural collaboration with Nike, Albino & Preto has infused the SB Dunk with a 'Fossil' canvas upper, intricately woven in a manner reminiscent of a jiu-jitsu gi (the cotton jacket and drawstring pants worn during matches). 

The shoe features a black suede Swoosh running along both the lateral and medial sides, with the signature "AP" logo adorning the heels. All of this is situated atop an all-white Zoom Air midsole and is packaged in a distinctive shoebox that includes an impressive six pairs of additional laces, a delightful touch for sneaker enthusiasts. 

But wait, there's an added twist. Although this sneaker may appear initially clean and straightforward, its upper materials gradually wear away over time, unveiling a lively leather foundation underneath. The toebox adopts a vivid blue hue, the heel tab transforms into purple, and the Swoosh takes on a red shade. These colors serve as a tribute to the belt hierarchy in jiu-jitsu, with blue representing one of the lower ranks and red symbolizing the highest attainable rank. 

The Albino & Preto x Nike SB Dunk Low ‘Fossil’ is set to drop on September 23. It'll be available via Albino & Preto, Nike, the Snkrs app, and select stockists across the globe for £110 each. As with anything SB Dunk-related, expect these to sell out. 

Images via Nike.com