Introduction
The Nike SB Dunk Low Pro ‘Gulf’ (BQ6817-401) is a sneaker that captures the thrill of motorsport and the spirit of skate culture. Inspired by the legendary Gulf Oil racing livery, this limited-edition SB Dunk pays tribute to vintage race cars with its unmistakable powder blue, orange, and white palette.
It’s a standout release in the Nike SB catalog—not just for its colorway but for its ability to merge performance features, nostalgic design, and streetwear appeal. Whether you’re a skater, collector, or just want stylish sneakers with character, the Gulf SB Dunk is a winner.

Design: Motorsport Aesthetic Meets Skate Heritage
The visual inspiration for the ‘Gulf’ colorway comes directly from the Gulf Porsche 917, one of the most iconic race cars in motorsport history. It blends cool tones with bold accents, creating a look that feels both vintage and vibrant.
Design Features:
- Powder Blue suede upper for a soft, retro appearance
- Bold orange Swoosh inspired by Gulf Racing stripes
- White circle patch with “58” on the lateral heel, resembling race car numbers
- Classic fat tongue and SB Dunk laces for that 2000s skate look
- Black midsole with white outsole, grounding the vibrant upper
The result is a shoe that honors motorsport legends while fitting perfectly into today’s fashionable sneaker scene.
Materials and Build Quality
Nike SB doesn’t skimp on materials, and the ‘Gulf’ edition continues that tradition with premium construction for both style and function.
Material Breakdown:
- Premium suede upper: Durable yet plush to the touch
- Foam-padded tongue and collar: Signature comfort for skaters
- Zoom Air unit in the insole: Impact absorption during heavy landings
- Rubber outsole with circular traction for multi-directional grip
These are authentic Nike shoes built for daily wear, whether you skate or not.

Comfort and Fit
The SB Dunk Low is known for being one of the most comfortable low-top skate shoes ever made, and the ‘Gulf’ edition holds up.
Fit Guide:
- Fits true to size, but snug due to padded tongue and internal lining
- Cushioned insole with Zoom Air adds shock protection
- Upper breaks in nicely after a few wears
- Excellent for both boardfeel and casual street comfort
This sneaker combines classic SB feel with a distinct stylistic edge.
How to Style the SB Dunk ‘Gulf’
The colorway may be bold, but it’s surprisingly versatile—perfect for spring and summer fits or year-round streetwear rotation.
Styling Tips:
- Pair with light-wash jeans and a white hoodie to let the colors pop
- Rock with orange accents or motorsport-themed gear for thematic looks
- Layer under cargo pants, cuffed joggers, or shorts for skate-inspired outfits
- Add graphic tees or vintage racing jackets for collector synergy
This is one of those fashionable sneakers that lets your personality show through.
Who Should Buy the Nike SB Dunk ‘Gulf’?
Perfect for:
- SB collectors and fans of themed Dunks
- Streetwear enthusiasts looking for unique sneakers
- Skaters who want premium performance with bold design
- Fans of motorsport culture, especially Gulf Racing or Porsche heritage
- Buyers who value limited-edition Nike shoes with storytelling appeal

Pros and Cons
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Eye-catching racing-inspired design | Limited release—may be hard to find at retail |
Premium suede upper with great durability | Colorway might not suit minimalist wardrobes |
Zoom Air cushioning for comfort on and off the board | Slightly bulky for those unfamiliar with SB fit |
Strong collector’s appeal and resale potential | Price markup on resale platforms |
Compared to Other SB Dunks
Model | Theme | Compared to ‘Gulf’ |
---|---|---|
SB Dunk Low ‘Chicago’ | Jordan tribute | ‘Gulf’ is more niche, motorsport-driven |
SB Dunk Low ‘Bart Simpson’ | Pop culture/cartoon | ‘Gulf’ is cleaner and subtler in tone |
SB Dunk Low ‘Ben-G’ | Skate shop collab | ‘Gulf’ offers stronger visual storytelling appeal |
The ‘Gulf’ stands out in a sea of collabs thanks to its retro inspiration and clean execution.
Where to Buy
The Nike SB Dunk Low Pro ‘Gulf’ (BQ6817-401) was a limited release and has since sold out at most retailers. To find a pair, check trusted platforms like:
- TheenStyle – Curated selections of exclusive Nike shoes
- GOAT – Verified resale listings and multiple size options
- StockX – Market trends and fair resale pricing for rare drops
Because of its iconic colorway and limited production, resale prices can vary—act fast if it’s on your wishlist.

Final Verdict
The Nike SB Dunk Low Pro ‘Gulf’ is one of the most successful themed sneakers in recent memory. With premium build quality, motorsport roots, and standout visuals, it’s the perfect fusion of function and style.
Whether you’re skating, collecting, or flexing, the ‘Gulf’ offers a ride that’s smooth, fast, and unforgettable—just like the car that inspired it.