Nike x the Grateful Dead Launch a Rockstar Collection of Kicks
Nike has set fire to the mountain with one of their most unexpected partnerships to date: the sportswear company is collaborating with the Grateful Dead on a collection of bold shoes and accessories, produced in true Deadhead fashion. Each design pays homage to the band’s spirited symbol: the dancing bears, first introduced as part of the back cover for their 1973 album, History of the Grateful Dead, Volume One (Bears Choice).
The Grateful Dead has cemented itself as one of the most iconic rock bands in history, known for its diversified tunes that always manage to touch the soul. The group—established during the rise of 1960s counterculture—drew from several genres, including rock, country, bluegrass, jazz, gospel, folk and more.
Items are far from subtle, featuring statement colors and funky fabrics for those inclined to stand out. A royal blue terry cloth bucket hat is one of the collection’s most memorable pieces, adorned with bears “dancing” around the trim.
The line’s hero product is the Nike S.B. Dunk, manufactured in neon orange, green and yellow. Each sneaker includes faux-fur and suede detailing, as well as playful bear adornments. The jagged Nike Swoosh alludes to the animal’s jester collar, and the insoles feature all five bears dancing in a line. One style even includes the Grateful Dead's Steal Your Face skull on the bottom of a secret zipper compartment, hidden underneath the tongue.
Nike’s new collaboration is suitable for Deadheads and style chameleons alike—whether or not classic rock is your fave, embracing the colorful kicks will have your closet hitting all the right notes.
The Grateful Dead x Nike collection is available at nike.com on July 24th.
Additional reporting by Julia Heming.