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03.12.24

Rayssa Leal

Internationally known to stand atop podiums one day then throw down on iconic spots the next, Rayssa Leal’s skateboarding is a vehicle for who she is and what she represents. A natural talent always ready to step up, Rayssa and her crew celebrated the release of her Dunk Low Pro colorway with a quick trip to Los Angeles to stack clips and vibes. With a fresh change of scenery and spots for days, Nike SB spoke to Rayssa about road-testing “Rayssa’s Dunk” in LA and what the colorway means to her story.

Why did you decide to film a part in LA and what's LA street skating like vs at home in Brazil?

We don’t have many street spots in my hometown, so it’s always good to go on a skate trip with my friends. It was a good excuse to skate and have fun in a classic city for our culture.

Why was it important for you to have friends in the video and have more of a homie vibe than a solo part?

Whether it’s people I know from school or skating, I’m always with my friends. Street skating can be tough, so they help me out by pushing me to get tricks. Even though skating is an individual sport, it’s always something you do with other people and you really get to share those moments with them.

Do you have different mindsets for contests vs filming in the streets?

Definitely. Street skating is only against yourself, so you have more tries in the streets and feel less pressure. It’s easier to stay calm to land tricks

How did you approach making your Dunk colorway personal and what does it represent to you?

It was a dream come true. I wanted to use this opportunity to share the big moments in my life and skateboarding through this colorway. It’s a way to express myself and also connect with the people who get the shoe.

What's your favorite detail on your Dunk?

The smiley faces. It was something that I was drawing everywhere. It represents me in the same way a graffiti tag would.

Is it a different feeling lacing up a shoe that you designed and has your logo on it?

I still can’t believe it’s real, but the best thing is seeing my friends and family wearing them with me.

What are you most looking forward to in Paris 2024?

I just want to have fun and do my best.

The SB Dunk Low by Rayssa releases in select Skateshops March 19 and SNKRS March 20. Click HERE to find a shop near you and get notified in SNKRS.