How to Lace and Care for Your Off-White x Nike Dunk Sneakers

The Iconic Off-White x Nike Dunks

The Off-White x Nike Dunk collaboration has become one of the most iconic sneaker releases in recent years. Ever since they first debuted back in 2017, the Off-White Dunks have been highly coveted by sneakerheads and streetwear enthusiasts alike.

Designed by Virgil Abloh, the creative director of Off-White, the Dunks feature the signature deconstructed aesthetic that Abloh has become known for. By taking a classic Nike silhouette and adding his own twists, Abloh created a shoe that looks familiar yet fresh and new at the same time.

The Off-White Aesthetic

Some of the key features that make the Off-White Dunks stand out include:

• Exposed foam tongue
• "SHOELACES" text on the laces
• Zip tie on the left shoe
• Transparent TPU wings on the sides
• Visible stitching andraw edges throughout

These design elements give the Dunks an unfinished, deconstructed look. It highlights the inner workings of the shoe rather than hiding them away. The contrasting textures and materials also add character to the sneaker.

Limited Releases

Part of the hype around Off-White shoes is due to their limited availability. The Dunks have released through Nike SNKRS raffles and at select retailers in very small quantities.

Some of the most popular colorways include:

• The "Pine Green" with black, green, and white
• The "University Red" in white, red, and black
• The "University Gold" in yellow, white, and black
• The all white "Lot 37 of 50"

Because of how rarely the Dunks are restocked, resell prices have skyrocketed. Pairs now routinely sell for $1000+ depending on the colorway.

How to Lace Off-White Dunks

One of the unique aspects of the Off-White Dunk that adds to its appeal is the special lacing system. With so many intricate design details, even lacing up a pair requires careful attention.

Follow the Tag Placement

The first step is to note the zip tie tag placement. This plastic tag will be attached to the laces of the left shoe. The side with the tag should face outward.

This outward facing tag placement is signature Off-White style, so be sure the tag doesn't end up spinning around to the inner side of the shoes. Keeping it outward maintains the intended design aesthetic.

Mind the "SHOELACE" Text

Another important Off-White Dunk detail is the text on the laces. In a contrasting color to the shoe, the laces will have "SHOELACE" printed all along their length.

When lacing, turn the shoes sideways so that the text reads properly from left to right. Don't crisscross the laces in a way that upside down text ends up on top.

Loose Lacing Near Toes

Start lacing at the bottom set of eyelets, but keep the lacing very loose, especially near the toes. The exaggerated long laces are part of the Off-White look.

At the top of the shoe near the ankle, the lacing can be a bit tighter to hold the shoe securely on foot. But the long dangling laces are integral to the design.

Tuck Laces Into Sides

Once the Off-White Dunks are fully laced up, don't tie the laces. Instead, tuck the ends into the sides of the shoes, between the leather and lining.

This makes the long laces less likely to come loose. And it prevents excess lacing from dragging on the ground.

Cinch the Zip Tie

Finally, take the zip tie on the left shoe and cinch it closed around the laces. Customers receive the shoes with the zip tie intact, so this completes the true Off-White looking lacing.

The zip tie provides a streetwear, industrial vibe that finishes off the iconic Off-White Dunk design.

Caring for Your Off-White Dunks

Once you've got your Dunks perfectly laced, you'll want to take good care of them to prevent scuffs and stains.

Use Water Protection Spray

Applying a water repellant spray can help guard against damage from rain, snow, or spills. Spray onto the uppers and let dry before wearing.

Clean Gently

If your Off-White Dunks get dirty, wipe them down gently with a soft cloth dampened with warm water. Avoid using chemical cleaners or scrubbing harshly.

Stuff with Paper

When storing your Dunks, stuff the shoes with paper or shoe trees to retain the shape. Don't keep them tightly packed away.

Avoid Wear and Tear

Be careful not to scuff your Dunks on abrasive surfaces. And try not to walk too far in them to prevent excess wear and tear.

Treat your iconic Off-White x Nike Dunks with care so you can enjoy rocking Virgil Abloh's design for a long time. With the right maintenance, your sneakers will last for seasons of turning heads and earning compliments.

FAQs

How limited are Off-White Dunk releases?

Off-White Dunk releases are extremely limited, with most colorways having run sizes of just a few hundred pairs globally. They sell out instantly and are rarely restocked.

What makes Off-White Dunks so expensive?

The hype around Virgil Abloh's designs coupled with the scarcity of the Dunks leads to very high resell prices. Pairs often resell for over $1000 due to high demand from collectors and limited availability.

Should I remove the zip tie tag?

No, the zip tie is signature to Off-White shoes and should be left on. Make sure to cinch it closed around the laces. Removing it decreases the resale value.

How do I clean my Off-White Dunks?

Use a gentle wipe with a soft cloth dampened with warm water to clean. Avoid using chemical cleaners or scrubbing too hard. Stuff with paper when storing to retain the shape.

Where's the best place to buy Off-White Dunks?

Your best bet is to try for a retail pair on releases via the Nike SNKRS app or raffles at select retailers. Otherwise you'll have to pay resale prices through sites like StockX or GOAT.