4 Differences between Nike Dunk and Air Force, Complete with a Brief History

JAKARTA – The difference between the Nike Dunk and Nike Air Force is basically quite striking, but for people who are new to Nike products it will be difficult to differentiate between the two sneakers.

In its history, Air Force shoes debuted in 1982 as one of the best basketball shoes on the market along with Converse and Adidas. This success then made Nike create a new variant again in 1985, where the Nike Dunk designed by Peter Moore made its debut.

As two shoes that were created close to each other, the Nike Dunk and Air Force have many similarities. According to Realsport 101, this similarity is due to the fact that both models were introduced during the golden era of basketball, at almost the same time.

Even so, there are still main differences between these two sneakers. Here are some differences between Nike Dunk and Nike Air Force.

Difference between Nike Dunk and Air Force

1. Midsole

It is called Nike Air Force because on the midsole, specifically on the lateral heel, there is the writing ‘AIR’ in capital letters. The naming of AIR is also in accordance with the technology being promoted. Where Nike Air has a collection of air bubbles designed to compress the bottom of the foot to increase cushioning and comfort.

This is what makes the sole on the Nike Air higher than the Nike Dunk.

Meanwhile, the Nike Dunk midsole is believed to be made with EVA (Ethylene-vinyl acetate). Even though it looks smaller than the Nike Air Force, this midsole is thought to be much more durable.

2. Air Holes in the Front of the Shoe

Both the Nike Air Force and Nike Dunk have air holes in the front. If you look in more detail there are differences in the shape or arrangement of the holes.

The Nike Air Force air holes are parallel and look neater. Meanwhile, the Nike Dunk air holes have quite varied air holes with a concept that spreads like stars.

3. Shoelace Box

There is a striking difference between the Nike Air Force and Nike Dunk shoelace boxes. The Nike Air Force shoelace box has the shape of the letter ‘U’, while the Dunk shoelace box consists of two sides joined together.

This difference makes the Nike Dunk considered more flexible for adjusting foot size because it does not have limitations at the hem like the Nike Air Force.

4. Bottom Sole Part

The bottom sole pattern between the Air Force and the Dunk is very different. The Nike Air Force features a series of concentric curves with widening radii centered on the pivot points of the ball of the forefoot and heel. There is a small indentation in the medial arch, bounded by a latitude on the lateral edge.

Then on the front and back there is a small star pattern that appears. Meanwhile, the Dunk outsole can be divided into forefoot and heel sections.

Those are some of the differences between Nike Dunk and Air Force. Even though at first glance these two sneakers look the same, there are still several differences that define the identity of each Nike product.

(tsa)