Jeff Staple's $130,000 Nike Sneaker That Sparked a New York Riot

In this short film, designer Jeff Staple breaks down the anatomy of the legendary Nike Pigeon Dunk—one of the most infamous sneaker releases in history.

From the initial sketch to the fateful meeting at Nike HQ in Beaverton, Oregon, Jeff walks us through how a simple idea—paying tribute to the everyday pigeon, New York City’s unglamorous mascot—turned into a cultural explosion. We get into the nitty-gritty: the muted grey suede uppers inspired by the bird’s feathers, the pop of pink on the outsole mimicking pigeon feet, and how Nike’s Zoom Air tech was built into the sole to balance comfort with street utility.

Jeff also reveals details from the design process, showing up to sell a show he'd not even seen yet and the moment he realized the release had caused near-riots outside his NYC store, Reed Space. With archival photos, rare samples, and personal artifacts, this short film peels back the hype to reveal the true story behind a sneaker that made history.

 

From Switzerland to 30 Years in Rural JAMAICA!

Many dream of it, few ever do it.....but Tom has left Switzerland almost 30 years ago and has been living life his way in rural Jamaica. Enjoy this long chat with Tom, and hopefully it inspires you to follow your own dream!

 

Will Smith Goes Sneaker Shopping With Complex

Will Smith returns to go to Sneaker Shopping with Complex's Joe La Puma at Lapstone & Hammer in Philadelphia and talks about wearing Air Jordans to his prom, how he used to get Jordan’s early, and how he never goes sneaker shopping.