In 2024, sneaker artists from all over the world created a number of stunning custom Nike designs. From pairs inspired by the year’s biggest sneaker trends to those drawing from pop culture or nature and even designs that breathe new life into old favourites, it’s clear that the creativity in the custom sneaker world has been truly remarkable this year. So, let’s look at some of our current top picks for custom Nike Sneakers for 2024.
Beetlejuice x Freddy Krueger Nike Dunk Low Pack
Two of the most iconic characters in horror history, Beetlejuice and Freddy Krueger, are featured on this pair of custom Nike Dunk Low sneakers designed by Dariyn Enriquez and Strike Collective. Every pair is adorned with hues and designs derived from the iconic figures’ trademark attire. They might not be easy to style for daily use (unless you lean towards bold and daring ensembles), but these are great to pull out for horror movie marathons or during the spooktacular season.
“White Veil” Air Force 1
Not everyone wants to exchange vows in a conventional wedding shoe. That’s why designs like Jordan Watkins’ custom “White Veil” Air Force 1 sneaker are ideal for couples who want to add personal flair to their wedding ensemble. The pair has a tonne of Chantilly lace, at least 200 pearls, and additional beading on the lace tips. It’s hard to resist saying ‘I do’ to these exquisite custom sneakers.
Nike Air Max 1 “Sharimiki Bonsai”
Nature is often the inspiration behind the most beautiful sneaker designs. The design of this Air Max 1 by Bigassteam draws inspiration from the perseverance, creativity, and painstaking attention to detail involved in caring for a bonsai tree—qualities that are also necessary when designing handcrafted sneakers. The custom includes embroidery of bonsai trees interwoven with the profile Swooshes and an image of the trees on the insoles. This pair is a stunning example of how storytelling and sneaker design can coexist.
Air Force 1 ‘White Rabbit’
The incredible custom design by Chase Shiel and Marc dela Rea offers a fresh take on Nike’s 2011 ‘Year of the Rabbit’ AF1 design. Inspired by the much-loved White Rabbit candy, the pair features creamy off-white tumbled leather with pops of blue and red throughout. However, white fur covering the overlays gives the pair a whimsical textural element. Don’t you want to reach out and touch them?
“Paisley” Nike Air Force 1
Bigassteam’s custom “Paisley” AF1 design incorporates a number of sneaker trends that have gained popularity in recent years. Think of paisley prints, soft suede accents, distressed details, and thick rope laces. If you adore every single one of these design elements, you should definitely add these to your collection.
“Kintsugi” Nike SB Dunk Low
Although the idea of using upcycled fabrics in sneaker design is not new, these Nike SB Dunk Low’ Kintsugi’ sneakers by SBTG Official give the technique a fresh and lavish feel. Each pair wears silky Hermes scarves featuring pictures of either mythological animals, flowers, statues, or symbols on its base, complemented by sail and brown leather accents. Not to forget the stylish way that the bandana print Swooshes finish off each distinct colourway.
Off-White x Nike SB Dunk Low “Chicago”
The “Chicago” Nike SB Dunk Low, which was released in 2020 as a part of the model’s “J-Pack,” now has some Off-White flair thanks to these chic custom sneakers by Clément Petit. The pair introduces a secondary lacing system along with detachable Swooshes and text on the shoelaces. Plus, beneath the ankle flaps are a few hidden details that honour Michael Jordan and the first SB Dunk release.
Sean Wotherspoon x Air Max 1 “Hemp Green”
Margiello’s custom sneaker offers a glimpse into what could have been if Sean Wotherspoon had continued to collaborate with Nike. This Air Max 1 has a dark green hemp upper with intricate white and green stitching inspired by Wotherspoon’s recent collaboration on the Adidas Gazelle. This pair makes us yearn for all the potential Wotherspoon and Nike sneakers that will sadly never be made.
“Enjoying Nature” Nike Dunk Low
We couldn’t possibly go through the list without highlighting another pair inspired by nature. In contrast to the earlier design, Tagz Footwear’s custom is influenced by the serenity and beauty of a forest environment. The sneaker has a neutral canvas upper, dark brown tumbled leather on the Swooshes, and overlays of green suede ‘grass’. The heel and ankle flap are embroidered with lovely images of a forest, complete with a calm blue sky and tall green trees.
Nike Dunk Low “Outta Here”
Since baseball is unquestionably one of the most popular pastimes in America, new custom Nike sneakers influenced by the sport are constantly popping up. But one of our favourite looks this year has to be Jim Buck’s Nike Dunk Low “Outta Here.” With its brown leather overlays and white base featuring contrasting red stitching at the heel, it offers a sophisticated interpretation of a baseball glove and ball. Plus, the tongue tag features the Liberty Bell logo as a nod to the Philadelphia Phillies.
Honourable Mentions For Concept Designs
Nike SB Dunk Low “Black Myth: Wukong”
Black Myth: Wukong may have only recently debuted, but its stunning design work has already inspired a slew of custom sneakers. This pair by Bob Ng, in particular, draws inspiration from the heroes’ Monkey King armour set while also paying homage to the game’s Chinese roots through traditional patterns and symbols. If the design is ever brought to life, it will be an absolute stunner.
Nike Dunk Low “Spider-Man Blue”
Although we’re pretty accustomed to seeing Spidey-themed sneakers dressed in his iconic red and blue colour scheme, Dariyn Enriquez’s concept offers a fresh interpretation with a sleek blue and black look. Fans of the web slinger’s adventures will recognise that this design is based on the Jeph Loeb and Tim Sale Spider-Man: Blue limited series. We sincerely hope that this design is put into production in the future.
“What The” SB Dunk High
John Trottier’s “What The” SB Dunk High concept combines a number of coveted SB Dunk High grails from the past. Think of pairs like the 2011 “SPoT Cigar City” release, the 2017 “Reese Forbes Denim” design, and the 2004 “FLOM” pair. It would be great if Nike could adopt this idea and create a limited-edition shoe that honours these cherished sneaker releases.
Batman Beyond RTFKT Dunk Genesis
When you think of Terry McGinnis’s Batman Beyond suit, you think of a futuristic and sleek design. Well, Nike’s new RTFKT Dunk Genesis model may be the best silhouette for capturing that essence. Dariyn Enriquez, however, took the look a step further by adding red circuitry patterns, a bat logo, and vibrant red Swooshes, transforming the model into a true homage to the Batman of the future.
Which custom Nike sneaker designs and concepts were your favourites this year? Share with us in the comments below!
