NIKE SB DUNK LOW
Verdugo Mountain
Inspired by the Verdugo Mountains that overlook the San Fernando Valley in Los Angeles, the Nike SB Dunk Low Verdugo Mountain blends outdoor spirit and skate culture. Combining technical comfort and graphic details inspired by mountain biking, it embodies the balance between ascent and descent, city and nature.
The Verdugo Mountains: nature and history in the heart of Los Angeles
When we think of Los Angeles, we immediately imagine its legendary beaches, congested motorways and skyscrapers glistening in the setting sun. However, nestled north of Glendale and Burbank, the Verdugo Mountains offer a completely different side to the megalopolis. This discreet mountain range, rising to 940 metres at Verdugo Peak, is a true natural sanctuary that contrasts with the rapid urbanisation of the San Fernando Valley.
A discreet but strategic massif
The Verdugo Mountains are only about 20 kilometres long. Isolated, they stand as a natural barrier between several iconic neighbourhoods: Glendale, Burbank, Sun Valley and Tujunga. Their position makes them an unmissable geographical and visual landmark.
At the summit, a series of communication towers and satellite dishes serve as a reminder of their strategic importance for regional telecommunications. This technological landscape, set in the heart of a natural environment, symbolises the identity of Los Angeles: a permanent crossroads between nature and modernity.
A playground for outdoor enthusiasts
Although the Verdugo Mountains are well known to locals, they remain a well-kept secret for many visitors. Yet they are full of trails and activities:
- Hiking : trails such as the Brand Park Trail or the Vital Link Trail take you to the summit, where you can enjoy exceptional panoramic viewsp).
- VTT : The dusty trails and steep slopes make it a paradise for mountain bikers seeking thrills.
- Trail running : athletes appreciate the technical trails that alternate between steep sections and open ridges.
- Observation : the 360° view offers unique perspectives: San Fernando Valley to the west, Downtown LA to the south, San Gabriel Mountains to the east and, on a clear day, the Pacific Ocean.
A story linked to California's Spanish roots
The name ‘Verdugo’ refers to the Verdugo family, owners of Rancho San Rafael, a Spanish concession in the 18th century. These lands were used for livestock farming and agriculture before gradually being incorporated into the large modern metropolis.
Thus, the Verdugo Mountains also tell the story of Spanish and Mexican colonisation of California, before American expansion transformed the region..
Biodiversity typical of Southern California
The vegetation of the Verdugo Mountains reflects the region's Mediterranean climate : chaparral, dry grasses, scattered oak trees. Coyotes, rabbits, birds of prey and, more discreetly, pumas passing through from the neighbouring San Gabriel Mountains are regularly spotted here.
Although adapted to drought, this biodiversity regularly suffers the effects of the forest fires that affect California. Each season serves as a reminder of the fragility of this ecosystem nestled within the urban environment..
A cultural and creative symbol
When we think of Los Angeles, we immediately imagine its legendary beaches, congested motorways and grThe Verdugo Mountains are not just a recreational area: they also inspire local culture. With their communication towers planted at the summit, they form a recognisable silhouette, often used in videos, music videos and visual campaigns.
Nike couldn't pass up such an iconic tribute, which is why the brand is now offering a new Dunk model inspired by the Californian mountains.
Nike SB Dunk Low Verdugo Mountain, a tribute to California's mountain peaks
Inspired by the Verdugo Mountains, an iconic mountain range that dominates the eastern part of the San Fernando Valley in Los Angeles, this Nike SB Dunk Low reinvents the outdoor spirit by combining it with skate culture. Designed for both urban cyclists and indoor cycling enthusiasts, it pays tribute to a region renowned for its hiking trails and mountain bike tracks. The silhouette blends style and technicality: a padded tongue and low collar for immediate comfort, complemented by a Zoom Air unit in the heel that provides responsive cushioning with every impact. Graphic details reinforce the local connection: a map and mountain bike illustration hidden inside the tongue, and insoles adorned with the famous communication towers perched atop the Verdugo Mountains. More than just a sneaker, it's an invitation to explore, to climb ridges and enjoy liberating descents.
photos / vidéo : Romain Freitas
NIKE SB
Nike SB - Dunk Low Pro - "Verdugo Mountain" Light Liquid Lime / Wolf Grey-Black
Nike SB - Dunk Low Pro - "Verdugo Mountain" Light Liquid Lime / Wolf Grey-Black
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1 RUE CARNOT
1 RUE CARNOT
Place des 7 Cantons
64000 PAU
France
