Nicole Hause is ‘Stoked’ About Her Nike SB Dunk Low Pro Sneakers—And So Are We
Photo Credit: Sam McGuire
When professional skateboarder Nicole Hause stepped into the shoes at Nike headquarters in Oregon, she knew this was a pivotal moment. With an opportunity to create her own design, Hause crafted what could only be described as a perfect fusion of personal style and skate culture: the Nike SB Dunk Low Pro. This unisex shoe features a floating swoosh in blue-and-white plaid, a removable double chain with a medallion, and an insole adorned with a hummingbird—a nod to her love for birds and aerial skateboarding.
The Birth of a Signature Shoe
While the Nike SB Dunk Low Pro is not strictly a fashion shoe, Hause’s instincts are spot-on. Plaid has been making waves in spring collections, and adding a touch of bijou to footwear aligns perfectly with current trends. This opportunity for Hause signifies a broader recognition of women in skateboarding and the sneaker space.
From Concept to Creation
Hause’s collaboration with Nike began as early as 2018, when she started wearing their shoes and apparel during competitions. Her relationship with the brand blossomed over time, culminating in this creative project. “I felt ready,” Hause said about designing her shoe.
Design Elements
- Floating Swoosh: A classic blue-and-white plaid that speaks to both style and functionality, allowing for a more authentic skateboarding experience.
- Double Chain with Medallion: Inspired by her own fashion choices while skating. The medallion bears the Greek meaning of her name: “Victory of the People.”
- Hummingbird Insole: A symbol of agility and freedom, reflecting Hause’s love for aerial skateboarding.
The Significance Behind the Sneaker
Hause sees this shoe as more than just footwear; it represents a milestone in her career. Her design process was intuitive, with inspiration drawn from personal experiences and current trends. “I knew I wanted to do something unique,” she explained.
Access and Availability
The Nike SB Dunk Low Pro is part of the Quick Strike collection, making it a rare find as they are distributed primarily through select skate shops rather than online platforms—a nod to keeping brick-and-mortar stores thriving.
Nicole Hause: A Journey Through Skateboarding
Hause’s path into professional skateboarding was shaped by early experiences and personal passion. Starting with a mini ramp built in Minnesota, her love for skating took off unexpectedly when she discovered skate parks during a family move to California.
Breaking Barriers as a Woman in Skateboarding
Hause has witnessed significant changes in the industry over the years. From unequal prize money to fewer events for women, the landscape is slowly but surely shifting towards inclusivity and equality, particularly since skateboarding was included in the Olympics.
Style Meets Function: The Skater’s Wardrobe
For Hause, style is synonymous with functionality. She has always opted for clothing that supports her skating lifestyle—whether it’s baggy jeans or Polar skate pants from Sweden. Her evolving fashion choices reflect a growing trend towards gender-neutral styles within the skate community.
Fashion Forward
With the release of her Nike SB Dunk Low Pro, Hause is just starting to tap into her potential as a designer. “I’ve always loved fashion,” she says. With plans to launch her own brand and design line, Hause aims to blend skateboarding with high style.