Bruins, rejoice! From the Air Jordan 1 Low to the LD-1000, we’ve seen our fair share of University of California, Los Angeles-coded colorways over the years. Even more under-the-radar silhouettes like the BRSB have been blessed with that iconic blue and gold treatment. But the upcoming Nike Dunk Low Panda UCLA hits different. Because not only is it one sick-looking shoe, but it also draws inspiration from one of the most hyped sneakers of all time.
Without going into all the details, back in 2021, Nike unwrapped the now-legendary Dunk Low Panda. Originally named the Black White, it earned its cute nickname thanks to its simple monochrome palette that resembled, you guessed it, a panda. What started as a humble GR release quickly spiraled into a full-blown cultural moment. Absolutely everyone wanted a pair, and at the peak of the craze, some guys were even paying up to four figures just to get their hands on it.
Fast forward four years, and the Panda lineage lives on through releases like the Dunk Low Panda UCLA. Crafted from premium short-haired suede, it’s dressed in bold shades of Court Blue and Yellow Ochre – a clear nod to the Californian institution. A crisp Swoosh slices through the sidewalls, while classic “Nike” branding is stitched across the tongue and heel. And this is a Panda colorway, it comes with a special edition panda face badge that's attached to the laces. You'll find even more references to the cuddly bear on the shoebox, too.
If you're a big fan of the OG but you want something with a little more personality, the Nike Dunk Low Panda UCLA has your name on it. Releasing in Fall 2025 alongside a series of other colorways, it'll be available at Nike and select retailers online and in-store with a retail price of $115. Download the Sole Retriever mobile app to stay updated on the latest releases, raffles, news, and more in the sneaker and streetwear world.
Images via Nike
Adam Cheung is a writer and editor who specialises in sneakers and streetwear. Over the past few years, he's curated features and guides for everyone from Burberry to Nike. Often travelling between the UK and Hong Kong, don't be too surprised if you find Adam anywhere else around the world taking street photography or feasting on the local delicacies.
