Nike Dunk
(GS) Nike Dunk Low ‘Michigan’ 2021 Review: Varsity Heritage for the Next Generation
Introduction
The Nike Dunk Low has experienced a meteoric resurgence over the last few years, transitioning from hardwood favorite to lifestyle must-have. Among its most iconic and collectible colorways is the ‘Michigan’ edition—a tribute to the University of Michigan Wolverines and their unmistakable varsity spirit.
Reintroduced in 2021, the (GS) Nike Dunk Low ‘Michigan’ brings this bold yellow-and-navy palette to a new generation of sneaker fans. This fashionable sneaker balances heritage with everyday wearability, making it a standout choice in the youth sneaker market.
Design: Bold School Pride Reimagined
The Michigan colorway dates back to 1985, originally released as part of Nike’s legendary “Be True to Your School” Dunk pack. The 2021 reissue keeps that spirit alive while adapting the silhouette to Grade School sizing without losing any visual punch.
Design Highlights:
- Varsity Maize leather underlays on the toe box, mid-panel, and collar
- Deep Midnight Navy overlays for sharp contrast
- Classic two-tone color blocking that’s instantly recognizable
- Crisp white midsole and navy rubber outsole complete the collegiate vibe
- Traditional Dunk branding on the tongue and heel tab
The result is a pair of stylish sneakers that speak to both basketball heritage and youthful energy.
Materials & Build Quality
Despite being a GS (Grade School) release, this Dunk Low doesn’t compromise on materials or attention to detail. Built with the same structural integrity as its adult counterpart, it offers durability and comfort fit for daily wear.
Material Overview:
- Upper: Smooth leather in both Varsity Maize and Midnight Navy
- Midsole: EVA foam with internal cushioning
- Outsole: Grippy rubber with pivot-circle traction for movement
- Lining: Padded textile for comfort and breathability
- Laces: Flat woven cotton laces in navy
Though not a premium release, the material quality exceeds expectations for a GS pair, delivering the feel of authentic Nike shoes.
Comfort & Fit
While the Dunk Low was born as a performance basketball sneaker, its modern-day lifestyle reincarnations still retain solid comfort—especially in this GS model, which is optimized for smaller feet.
Comfort Features:
- Low-cut collar offers flexibility around the ankle
- Lightweight cushioning in the midsole ensures shock absorption
- Roomy toe box supports natural foot growth and comfort
- Durable outsole gives kids the traction they need on different surfaces
Fit Guide:
- Runs true to size for most GS foot shapes
- Break-in time is minimal due to flexible leather
- Ideal for casual wear, school outfits, or daily activities
Style Versatility
Despite its sporty roots, the ‘Michigan’ Dunk Low adapts effortlessly to modern streetwear aesthetics. The bold yellow/navy combo makes it a statement piece—but not an overwhelming one.
How to Style the GS Michigan Dunk:
- Pair with dark wash jeans and a white hoodie for a clean, balanced look
- Go retro with baggy cargos and a varsity jacket
- Match with yellow or navy accents to echo the colorway
- Combine with sportswear or team gear for a game-day-ready fit
It’s a perfect fit for kids and teens who want to express individuality while tapping into a timeless sneaker legacy.
Who Should Buy the (GS) Dunk Low ‘Michigan’?
This pair appeals to a wide youth audience, especially those who care about sneaker culture, school pride, or simply standing out in a crowd.
Best For:
- Young sneaker collectors looking to start or expand their rotation
- Fans of college basketball or retro Nike shoes
- Parents searching for stylish, durable Nike footwear for their kids
- Teenagers who want their sneakers to speak volumes without saying a word
Unisex in design and spirit, the ‘Michigan’ Dunk Low works for boys and girls alike.
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Iconic, bold varsity colorway that stands out | Bright yellow may limit neutral outfit pairings |
| Durable leather construction suited for daily wear | Can crease over time like most leather sneakers |
| Comfortable fit with minimal break-in | Sells out quickly on major releases |
| Ideal for school, casual outings, and events | Not ideal for intense sports activities |
Comparison Table
| Sneaker | Best Feature | Compared to GS ‘Michigan’ Dunk Low |
|---|---|---|
| GS Air Jordan 1 Low | Sleek and supportive fit | Dunk has bolder, more aggressive color blocking |
| GS Nike Blazer Mid ‘77’ | Retro basketball high-top design | Dunk offers lower profile and more outfit flexibility |
| GS Nike Air Force 1 Low | Clean all-white versatility | Dunk feels more expressive and vintage |
| GS Dunk Low ‘Panda’ | Monochrome trend appeal | Michigan edition is more colorful and history-driven |
Where to Buy
Due to its legacy and visual impact, the (GS) Nike Dunk Low ‘Michigan’ (CW1590-700) is highly sought-after. To ensure authenticity and size accuracy, we recommend shopping at:
- TheenStyle – Ideal for youth-exclusive Nike shoes and retro models
- StockX – Resale marketplace with size filters and authenticity verification
- GOAT – Excellent for finding GS sizes with condition and price options
Use Style Code: CW1590-700 when searching to avoid confusion with similar adult or mid versions.
Final Verdict
The (GS) Nike Dunk Low ‘Michigan’ is a textbook example of how to blend history, sport, and youth fashion in one iconic silhouette. With its unforgettable colorway, clean leather build, and school-pride undertones, it offers something far beyond ordinary kids’ sneakers.
Bright. Bold. Built to last.
Whether you’re gifting a young sneakerhead or buying for back-to-school flair, this pair is a slam dunk in both form and function.