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Fun fact: there are more “Irish” identifying people in the USA then there are Irish people in Ireland. That list obviously includes our Celtic queen, Ayo Edebiri and now joining her is our brother in green, Ben Affleck.
The more-honest-than-he-needs-to-be husband of J-Lo, is an infamous Nike SB Dunk aficionado. While on his regular Dunkin’ Donut stroll, the award-winning actor was spotted in what might arguably be the most extraordinary pair of the iconic sneakers that he has trotted out yet: the Nike SB Dunk Low ‘Eire’ an absolute unicorn pair of Nikes and among the rarest of designs to see in the wild.
A nod to Ireland’s 1916 fight for independence against the English, the ‘Eire’ sneakers were released in 2006 to mark the 90th anniversary of this historical event. Unlike the typical leather-dominated SB Dunks, the ‘Eire’ is crafted entirely from a luxurious, soft suede, distinguishing it from its counterparts.
The beauty of the Eire is in the details, including the colourway which pays homage to the Irish flag. The sneakers feature an off-white base complemented by rich ‘Net Green’ overlays. The ‘Deep Orange’ accents on the tongue logo and Swoosh add a fiery contrast, further embodying the colours of the Irish tricolour, or an trídhathach. A unique touch is the Irish Harp, elegantly stitched on the lateral heel, and instead of the standard “Nike” branding, the Gaelic word “Éire” is embroidered around the back, celebrating Ireland.
Affleck’s possession of these sneakers isn’t entirely surprising, given his deep involvement with Nike. His portrayal of Nike co-founder Phil Knight in the 2023 movie Air is a testament to his connection with the brand. The film, featuring a stellar cast including Matt Damon and Viola Davis, delved into Nike’s ambitious efforts to sign Michael Jordan, revolutionising sports endorsements.
However, Affleck’s love for sneakers predates his role in Air. The two-time Oscar winner has long been known to possess an impressive collection of rare sneakers. His passion for these collectible items reflects not just a hobby but a deep appreciation for the stories and craftsmanship behind each pair.
As fans and sneaker enthusiasts marvel at Affleck’s latest display of the ‘Eire’ Dunk, the question arises: Is there any coveted sneaker that this Hollywood sneakerhead doesn’t own? With his ever-growing collection, Affleck continues to set the bar high for sneaker collectors worldwide.
