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Back in 2002, Nike took a second crack at the skateboarding market with its SB brand and the debut of its Dunks silhouette. You don’t have to be a sneaker head to know just how iconic these have become, transcending the sport to become a collectible phenomenon lasting over two decades now. But while the Dunks have seen every wild and refined iteration under the sun, it was the footwear giant’s partnership with Stefan Janoski in 2009 that would prove how much true skaters valued simplicity in their ride. Elevating this halfpipe staple, Nike has taken the SB Zoom Janoski OG+ SE signature shoe and given it the luxe treatment.
The Janoski has long been a favorite of the skateboarding scene for how well you could beat them up, with a typically-sub-$100 price tag and minimalist uppers that almost look cooler when they’re scuffed. However, for this latest rendition, Nike adds a hairy black textile upper to the OG+ model for a soft feel albeit exceptional durability. They’ve been paired with a black sole for a monochromatic look, while the outsoles feature a red color with a striking rose emblem.
You may have reservations when it comes to hitting the park in these but, despite the luxe look, these sneakers are made for performance. Plus, the darker colorway and matching glossed rubber soles will be a little more resistant to dirt. The uppers have also been re-engineered for improved fit and comfort so you can focus on your next trick instead of the shoes on your feet. Promising a snappy and responsive feel underfoot, the brand has added its Air Zoom cushioning for a “quick-off-the-ground sensation,” while skate-specific tread of your standard Janoski gives you optimal boardfeel and flick. Offering a broken-in fit and flexibility, vulcanized construction fusing the soles to the uppers are a subtle yet important detail that separate these from your average skate shoes.
Sold with two sets of laces, the SB Zoom Janoski OG+ SE in hairy black is offered at the still-reasonable price of $100.
