Category: Sneakers

Sneakers bring people together. They give countless people a healthy way to bond and form connections. Certain pairs of shoes tell stories that voices and words alone are not able to convey. Posts will include sneaker reviews, store reviews, opinions, interviews, favorite sneakers lists, upcoming releases, on feet reviews, and basically anything sneaker related.

Shoes often go beyond the materialistic realm. Enthusiasts and collectors appreciate the intangible aspects of sneakers just as much as the physical features. Certain collaborations and limited releases have a deeper meaning attached to them. They are usually not just a regular pair of shoes. The brands, back stories, collaborative efforts, and creativity tend to draw in a particular crowd that appreciates immaterial aspects of both sought after and general releases.

The Art of Sneakers

May 4, 2023

Shoes are meant to be worn and obviously protect feet from countless elements both outside and indoors. Most people look at sneakers as an accessory that do not deserve too much attention. The art of sneakers captures many aspects that would otherwise go unrecognized by most people.

Shoes are worn to get dirty; they are touching grimy surfaces all day and night. However, there are a select number of individuals who appreciate sneakers more than the average person.

Sneaker Construction- Materials and Colorways

Sneakers are unique because they are crafted differently and showcase numerous types of materials. From leather to suede and nubuck to velvet, mohair, canvas, foam, and rubber, the possibilities are virtually endless in the makeup of sneakers around the world. Shoes today feature countless different types of materials that would have never thought of being used in the past.

Materials can make or break a pair of sneakers; nobody wants shoes that are made of the same substance lacks character and usually comfortability.

Now, materials are used to reach optimal performance and comfort. Technology continues to improve vastly with new advancements coming every year.

Colorways are another major improvement among shoes and sneakers specifically. In the past, shoes were bland and did not stand out much at all. Nike pushed boundaries when they released the original Jordan 1 ‘Breds’ in the 1980s. Michael Jordan was banned from wearing them because they did not match the Bulls’ team colors. Now, the NBA sees players wearing crazy colorways that often have nothing to do with their uniforms.

The basketball sneakers in the NBA is representative of the sneaker world in general. It is now uncommon to wear boring shoes- a whole 180 from the ’80s. Sneaker enthusiasts assume things about other people based on the sneakers they wear; someone wearing all black or all white shoes 24/7 might not have much character or flair in their style.

Norms are meant to be broken. Materials and colorways today are continuing to push boundaries and reach new heights for sneakers all over the world. There is not signs of unique sneakers slowing down anytime in the near and even distant future.

Concepts and Stories

Sneakers today are meant to be worn as much as they have in the past. However, there are concepts and stories that make shoes meaningful and impactful. People all around the world seek to buy shoes that are tied to their favorite rappers, basketball players, celebrities, or creative designers.

Sneakers now have more purpose than ever. They support charities, raise awareness for marginalized communities, tell untold or misheard stories, and often bring out the best in humanity when brands and consumers come together for a common goal.

The art of sneakers has evolved because of the rise new concepts constantly being introduced. Sneakers bring to consumers today than just the physical aspect; enthusiasts cherish particular pairs for countless reasons. For example, they might have a personal story about how they acquired the shoes or they have exciting and unforgettable memories/experiences while wearing a particular pair.

More individuals are collaborating with major sneaker brands; the rise of independent labels has been more than noticeable as of the recent past as well. Many designers showcase their creative abilities through the use of sneakers- a universal piece of apparel that almost everyone in the world can relate to in some way one or another.

Art of Sneakers- Creative Touches

Creative designers have been improving and pushing fashion boundaries for centuries. The subcultures under the enormous fashion umbrella seem to be ever-evolving. New alternatives pop up every so often, stemming from other subcultures or completely paving a new and uncharted territory.

Sneakers are a particular sector of fashion that has seen a metric rise over the past fifty plus years. People used to look at shoes as just shoes (some still do), but now more individuals realize sneakers are a form of art. There are designers who specialize in creating their own sneakers and/or reconstructing existing pairs using an abstract and unique techniques.

Designers such as Tinker Hatfield, Peter Moore, Bruce Kilgore, and Eric Avar have created some of the most recognizable sneaker silhouettes in recent history. Independent creatives like Virgil Abloh (RIP legend), Ronnie Fieg, Salehe Bembury, Joe Freshgoods, and Don C have utilized their creativity throughout the sneaker industry.

Nike, Adidas, New Balance, and Asics collaborated with these artists and countless others to reach a much wider audience than they would have by as separates entities unwilling to team up.

In today’s age, the world of customs has blown up dramatically. It is easier (and harder) than ever to create a pair of custom sneakers. The art of sneakers is always subjective. One pair of customs may be considered trash to some and grails to others. Creatives such as The Shoe Surgeon, Mache, and Devlin Carter (founder of Sia Collective) have all influenced enthusiasts through numerous aspects.

Some individuals flock towards customs or independent labels. Others stick to the household names. Every sneaker enthusiast is appreciating art whether they realize it or not. The art of sneakers will forever be influential towards millions around the world.

How to Start a (Sneaker) Blog

April 22, 2023

Owning a sneaker blog or a website in general seems cool and glamorous on the outside. The things people don’t see, such as the countless mistakes and start overs, show the true reality of running a functioning site.

Most people who start blogs enjoy writing and don’t view it as a chore. If someone doesn’t like to write at all, it might make sense to figure out an outlet that is less writing intensive.

Blogs are rarely overnight successes. An individual must be prepared for years without any substantial rewards.

Foundation of a Blog

Nothing worthwhile will last without a strong foundation. It is important to take the time to think and plan before diving into a short-term or long-term project of a sneaker blog or any focus of your liking.

First, an individual must decide what type of blog and topics the site will cover. Find a niche but nothing too obscure. Do market research even if you consider yourself an expert. There is always information you know you don’t know and details that you have no idea about as well. An open mind and a humble demeanor both go a long way in any sort of journey especially when starting a sneaker blog.

Next, continue to do market and blog specific research before finding your target audience. Even if you have a few ideal viewers, it is better to have some compared to none at all. Conduct initial research on possible domains and hosting sites to get a jumpstart on your sneaker blog’s formation.

A unique logo is one of the finishing touches to a strong foundation. Although it is essential for branding, one should not spend too much time in forming a logo. Branding brings people to your page or site, the content and attitude keeps them coming back. Too much time on a logo takes valuable time away from building a strong foundation.

Before you start creating your website, it is necessary to find your why and what separates you from competitors. There are countless sites on the internet and endless blogs, especially within sneakers. Find key aspects that differentiate your brand which allows for a unique experience. Setting a clear vision and mission statement gives essential insight to remember why you started.

Find Hosting/Domain/Website Builder

Any functioning website needs a domain (the name of your site) and hosting to get off the ground and place in search engine rankings. There are numerous hosting providers and places to buy domains. As long as a provider has good reviews, it should be more than capable of starting your very own blog website.

Website builders vary by pricing, function, accessibility, user interface, and overall capabilities. Research is key during this particular step. Nobody wants to start with one website builder and have to start over for various reasons. Try to limit your options to 3 or 4 platforms/builders before further narrowing your choices. Watch YouTube videos, try demos, read countless articles, and do whatever it takes to find the best website builder for you.

Squarespace, WordPress, Wix, Shopify (better suited for e-commerce), and GoDaddy are all viable options for a solid website builder. The one you choose will impact your sneaker blog in the short-term and the long run alike. DO NOT go into this vital step blindly. Research is always key especially when starting a new blog using a new/unfamiliar platform.

Implementation and Sneaker Blog Building

Now is the time to put everything together. Too much overthinking leads to wasted time that could be spent doing something. In early stages, your work probably won’t be that good and in some cases it may repel readers. Nobody starts off great at anything, even the “naturals.” The act of doing is most of the battle in the beginning of any new venture. Just start and learn from your experience (mostly mistakes in the beginning).

Research and planning go a long way in a new blog journey. Most people who don’t quit after a few months will start to learn more about things they didn’t know. Results may or may not come as soon or as much as you would like. The reality is that the individuals who have stuck around the longest are almost always some of the most successful in many regards. Quitting kills more talent and potential than failure ever will.

Over time, you will figure out what you are good at and what you can improve upon or outsource. Maintaining and creating content can be a lot for one person; sometimes other people with expertise can take a load off your shoulders. Be cautious of who you work with directly or indirectly- your blog/site is still a reflection of you, regardless if others contributed in some way.

Be consistent once you officially release your sneaker (or any other type of) blog. Your work is not done after you get the site up and running. In fact, the work has just started. Creating and launching your blog is the basic training compared the real world reality that throws curveballs (which no type of training can ever prepare you for).

Once you have started your blog journey, there is no turning back. Only quitting or sticking it out for the long run. No website is meant to live forever, but why quit before you even give yours a chance?

Rotations: The Art of Selective Kicks

April 15, 2023

Any sneaker lover knows how rotations change drastically over time. Five years ago it might have been all Jordans and now it is a combo of numerous labels. Taste and style morphs over time to better reflect our moods/personalities/interests/etc.

Rotations are essential for all occasions especially vacations, business trips, or any type of travel. Having a curated selection makes picking a fresh pair so much more efficient and almost effortless.

For people who own multiples pairs of sneakers anywhere from twenty to triple digits know the feeling of wearing the same shoes pretty often. While it is impossible to wear more than one pair at a time, rotations provide much needed structure and organization.

Bringing Out the Best

Keeping a few pairs of sneakers in a select group often allows an enthusiast to showcase their favorite and/or best shoes. Curating sneakers is an art that comes with experience and mistakes. Creating a unique selection requires time and effort than cannot be replicated by an automated system. The term “best sneaker” is entirely subjective. Nothing can make sneakers of fashion objective for all.

Personal choice makes rotations unique and meaningful.

The best kicks are typically reserved for good weather days, special occasions, or even a day to feel better about yourself. Everyone has their favorite pairs that make them feel more confident than usual. At the same time, wearing these sneakers often leads to someone being overly cautious for both justified and absurd reasons. The paradox of wearing one’s best sneakers leads to these particular pairs being put aside for unique reasons, occasions, milestones, etc.

Curating Rotations

The art of rotations comes through high attention to detail and understanding simple rules. Nobody can ever create a perfect rotation. However, rotations are meant to be individualized and therefore perfectly imperfect.

When someone is starting to form a solid rotation, a few questions must be answered. One of the first questions that arises- what purpose does this rotation serve? Will the sneakers be used for miles of walking daily? Or will they be around countless people and prone to getting stepped on?

Every answer leads to a better idea of what rotations should look like on a case by case basis. Another question to answer is what will be worn with the sneakers? The right clothes can make or break an extraordinary pair of shoes. It is essential to wear shoes that pair well with clothing; gym shoes do not always go well with streetwear, some sneakers look better with pants or shorts, and colorways may not mesh well with many color palettes. The possibilities for pairing sneakers with an outfit is endless; sneaker lovers must think about the whole fit while putting a rotation together.

Travel is another important factor that must be considered during the curation of rotations. Nobody who likes pain will pack a pair of sneakers that are very uncomfortable to walk and/or stand around in all day. Even though they aren’t sneakers, other footwear like flip flops/sandals or boots are required for the destination’s rotation. One must be adaptable and have shoes that can serve singular purposes as well as pairs that can be multifunctional.

Colorway and Material Combos

Sometimes it makes sense to stick to a particular color palette; other times, it might be more ideal to get a wide variety of colors in a rotation. Colorways often separate the exceptional rotations from the mediocre. Having too much of the sam exact color serves no purpose. A rotation is meant to be unique and exciting. Too much of one thing is bland and does not add much substance to a specific look.

Materials are another essential aspect of a healthy rotation. Depending on the weather, the materials of sneakers must be carefully picked before creating a rotation. Nobody wants to be worried about their shoes 24/7 when they are traveling and trying to have a good time. By taking a few extra minutes to consider the materials, rotations can become effortless when the days to wear the chosen pairs comes around. All you have to do is put on the fresh kicks and feel confident about yourself.

Both colorways and materials can make or break a pair of sneakers. Tons of sneakers have dope concepts and interesting stories attached to them. However, the materials and colorways contribute immensely to the execution of sneakers. Certain sneakers are unique from others for countless reasons; the best separate themselves from the pack with exquisite execution and high detailing that cannot be found on every sneaker.

Sneakers: Curating Your Own Style

April 8, 2023

In the sneaker world there are countless options for figuring out a unique style. Sometimes it can be a bit overwhelming. The paradox of choice often makes sneaker purchases harder than they should be. However, as time goes on, individuals typically get a better sense of what they will wear more often; it does not make sense to keep buying sneakers that only collect dust and look nice on display.

People often look to social media and celebrities to figure out what’s hot and what’s not. This follower mindset is what usually leads to collecting sneakers that barely get worn. Instead, sneaker enthusiasts should seek to figure out their personal style before buying countless pairs of shoes.

Sense of Style

It often takes an individual years of trial and error before even getting an idea of their personal style. To dabble here and there in different niches is not always a bad thing. One can argue that trying styles outside of their comfort zone leads to a greater sense of individuality in the long run. Mixing and matching typically results in unique styles that cannot be replicated; for example, wearing a mix of streetwear and athletic wear. The possibilities are endless when a person opens up their style to expand upon its current limits.

Style represents much more than what the eye can see. Individualistic taste comes from numerous factors, both internal and external. Some internal aspects can include body weight/height and feeling confident in certain clothes. External factors involve inspiration from others, hot trends, and new drops constantly coming out.

The Limitless World of Sneakers

Individualistic style and sneakers often go together like peanut butter and jelly. New sneakers coming out virtually everyday leads to endless possibilities for people to express themselves. There will never be a shortage of shoes to choose from; following trends to the t severely limits these choices.

The amount of unique brands today allows for enthusiasts everywhere to find their favorites and eventually their most worn sneakers. The rise of boutique labels has led to extremely loyal fans who rep shoes that are not common to see in person.

There will never be a shortage of colorways. From classics to timeless combos to new and unique looks, we are currently living in the most advanced age in the sneaker industry.

The materials used now are far more progressive and boundary-breaking than any period in the twentieth century. Innovation continues to exceed expectations. A sneaker lover can find a comfortable pair of shoes all around; the past only allowed for a select few “comfortable” sneakers (virtually walking around with bricks compared to clouds today). The basketball shoes in the past offered no ankle support. Now players are used to ultra-supportive mid/high tops but low tops even offer more stability than the best high tops in the 70s, 80s, and 90s.

Custom Creps

Anybody can walk around with exclusive kicks in the present. Customs have proven to be a huge wave with no signs of crashing. From designers like Mache and The Shoe Surgeon, custom sneakers have become an art that captures many for various reasons. Anyone with a marker can even create their own one of ones. The custom hype has no signals of slowing down anytime soon.

Countless collectors would rather own and proudly wear exclusive kicks. When someone does not have the means to obtain sought after sneakers, they can turn to the world of customs. Either a semi-professional, a dedicated veteran, or yourself can create your own pair of customs. Personal pairs often hold great significance no matter how they are created (as long as there is noticeable time and effort put forth).

Structured Style Approach

Personal style depends on how much time and effort a person puts forth. There is no such thing as a unique touch without making “mistakes” first. In fashion, there are unwritten and personal rules that teach plenty about finding one’s unique looks. There is no such thing as unstructured personal style; over time, an individual finds their own lane through various forms of visual and representative organization.

Individualistic taste does not come overnight. There are plenty of awkward phases and figuring out to do before someone truly understands their own preferences and go to styles. Especially in the sneaker world, it may be hard to contain oneself to a specific lane or niche. There are plenty of particular looks among sneakers such as futuristic, beat up/vintage, classics, runners, etc. At the end of the day, nobody can fully structure someone else’s style. If they can, it is no longer personal or unique.

Sneakers are key way for someone to figure out what they like and don’t like in fashion. Pairing shoes with clothes is an art that nobody can ever perfect. Style is always subjective, but it is essential to have some sort of structure and blueprint in the long run. The composition may shift many times throughout one’s life; there are only new beginnings that form from the events and ideas of the past.

Grails: The Craze of Exclusive Sneakers

March 25, 2023

The term “grails” is thrown around loosely and typically does not hold as much weight as it seemed to in the past. Every sneaker collectors most wanted list consists of semi to extremely sought after kicks that go beyond the physical. Anyone who remembers their first pair of exclusive sneakers or a hot release that could not be secured. Lists vary due to numerous factors. Nobody has the same exact taste or grails as anyone else.

Top Five Grails

This personal list is never fully set in stone. Grails are meant to hold significance in multiple aspects, not just for a sole reason. The following sneakers are part of my grail list as of now and may change for any reason at any time.

Nike Air Yeezy 2 Red October

One of the most sought after and well-constructed Yeezys of all time. Even before Adidas teamed up with Ye, Nike put out some bangers throughout their stint together. The Red Octobers have only gone up in value and demand ever since they released. Nike Yeezys have tested to be built with quality materials; many pairs are still holding up very well almost ten years after the original release date in 2014.

This pair of sneakers is significant to me for various reasons. One in particular is the fact that they released on my birthday in 2014 (although I did not know until after they dropped). However, I later got more invested in sneakers and found out about the Red Octobers. Some of Kanye’s best shoes to ever release were during the pre-Adidas era. Louis Vuitton and Nike worked with West over several years to create some recognizable and highly coveted sneakers.

New Balance 992 Joe Freshgoods Don’t Be Mad Anatomy of a Heart/ No Emotions Are Emotions

Without a doubt, one of the most desired New Balance collaborations as of late and possibly of all time, Joe Freshgoods (JFG) and the Boston-based brand did not disappoint with this collaboration. Now, I only have a few pairs of New Balance in my personal collection. For a New Balance to be on my grails list has to mean it is something special.

This pair could easily be a Valentine’s Day classic; any type of sneaker with multiple uses of premium materials gets instantly better with the variation.

Nike Air Force 1 Low LeBron James PE

Air Forces typically aren’t my style, but there are always exceptions. Almost any Player Exclusive (PE) can be considered a grail for countless sneakerheads. Some PEs are myth-like as they are so rare and extremely limited. Most player exclusive are limited to single-digit pairs. Enthusiasts everywhere dream of obtaining a pair that only a select number of people have.

Originally released in 2005, the LeBron James PE is dressed in premium white and brown leather on the upper. The right lateral heel showcases an engraved design that is inspires by Ohio’s state lines. On the left lateral heel, an intricate LeBron James branding stands out effortlessly.

Air Jordan 1 High Chicago 1985 (The Holiest of Grails)

A timeless sneaker. A monumental pair of shoes. Anyone who appreciates Jordans knows how much influence the silhouette exudes. Other Jordan models are often overshadowed.

Anyone with an original pair of the Chicago 1s either knows they are potentially sitting on a pile of cash or has no clue about the pair’s true worth. The 1985 pairs are aged to perfection (naturally- no shots toward the ‘reimagined’ trend). Someone can argue that 99% of sneakers from the 80s don’t hold much monetary or sentimental value.

Air Jordan 1 High Chicago 1985- The Holiest of Grails

This particular pair is often worth the price of a reliable car. The intangible value is priceless due to the fact that the Chicagos paved the way for Jordan Brand as we know it today. The Air Jordan 1 Chicago 1985 will forever be a classic for sneaker collectors and casual fans alike.

Nike LeBron 10 What the MVP

In 2013, Nike released this limited pair of LeBrons to celebrate James’ 2013 NBA MVP, his fourth time winning the award. Nike made sure to release something special for a monumental feat of winning four MVP awards, a feat achieved by four other players besides James. That list includes Bill Russell, Wilt Chamberlain, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, and Michael Jordan. Nike was pretty much obligated to pull something special off for James and they did not disappoint.

“What the” colorways were popping in the late 2000s/early 2010s as Nike basketball had the sneaker game on lock. The What the MVPs combined several elements from noticeable LeBron 10 colorways like the Area 72, Prism, and BHM. With a combination of classic colorways, the demand is high as ever for this pari of LeBrons. However, rumors say there are well less than 1,000 pairs in circulation. Nike basketball and LeBron James fans all over the world have been keeping their eyes on this grail.

Grails- Invaluable Yet Priceless Sneakers

Grails are meant to be invaluable for personal reasons. Price does not and will never constitute the worthiness of a grail. Someone’s grail can be another’s beater pair. Ultimately, subjectivity reigns supreme in fashion, especially within the sneaker world.

Personal grails often change as particular choices and tastes evolve over time. Nobody who thinks for themselves has the same exact grails for identical reasons as anyone else. Never let someone else define for you what you like and don’t like.

Drop some of your personal grails in the comments!

Image Sources

https://solecollector.com/sd/05410/nike/nike-air-yeezy-2-sp-red-october

https://www.complex.com/sneakers/2020/02/joe-freshgoods-new-balance-992-omn1s-interview

https://www.sothebys.com/en/buy/_Nike-Air-Force-1-Low-LeBron-James-PE-or-Size-11

https://www.sothebys.com/en/buy/_Air-Jordan-1-Retro-High-Chicago-1985-or-Size-10

https://solecollector.com/news/2013/05/lebron-james-wears-what-the-mvp-nike-lebron-x

Reselling Taught Me

March 11, 2023

Shortly after I got into sneakers, I started to flip pairs on a part-time basis. Obviously I am not and never was a full-time reseller. Like a lot of people, I only sell shoes to make extra spending money and to buy more sneakers. Throughout the years, I have learned more from being observant and watching how others manage their side hustles or full-time businesses. Reselling often gets a bad rep (for justified and unjustified reasons). However, individuals can learn valuable business lessons that translate to other ventures.

Reselling provides experience; nothing beats hands-on, real-world experience. Whether someone flips a pair of shoes or a t shirt, the logistics are simple enough for anyone to pick up on. A person buys a product online or in-person. Then, they find a seller through a third party source or sell directly to the customer. One of the simplest business concepts of all time is buy low, sell high. Online arbitrage has skyrocketed over the past decade not just within the world of sneakers, but almost every product imaginable that can be sourced and flipped for a greater value. Anything from clothing to books to furniture can be resold with considerable profit margins.

Reselling and Basic Business Principles

Any type of real-world experience provides invaluable and irreplaceable philosophies than can be used in countless aspects of life. Reselling teaches customer service, supply and demand, and client relations right off the bat. Every time a pair of sneakers is resold, basic business principles are actualized. Even by flipping shoes on a part-time basis, I have learned more about sales compared to any form of study. By observing how other people move, I have learned numerous valuable lessons about life, business, shipping, and logistics. One of the most important messages that has stuck with me is the fact that you can do everything right on your end and things might still not work out in your favor.

Sometimes the market unexpectedly crashes. Other times, someone might be victim of fraud. And in very few cases there will be a pair of fakes or a scam you run across. Even after doing one’s due diligence, there is always a chance to suddenly slip up no matter how well a past performance was. There are endless aspects of business outside of one’s direct control; the only thing to do is focus on what is in one’s direct reach and control and rationally react to the uncontrollable.

The world of reselling is not as friendly as it seems on the outside. Keep your friends close and your enemies closer.

In reselling and any worthwhile business, there will always be people watching from afar looking at you with disdain and contempt. You are as worthy as you present yourself. If you treat yourself poorly, others will most likely do the same in return. It is essential to realize your worth before anyone else does. How you view and talk to yourself translates to any side hustles or full-time businesses in practice.

Losses into Lessons

When it is usually least expected, life tends to throw curveballs. In the online arbitrage/resell business, there will always be out of the blue moments that nobody could see coming. To be reactive is to keep a thriving side hustle or business.

A reseller quickly learns the feeling of taking a loss. Way too many things between the purchase of a sneaker and the sale are outside of a person’s direct control. For example, a pair of shoes may get lost or stolen while in transit, a pair of fakes may be passed as authentic, or shoes may not sell in a timely manner. One of the most delusional ways of thinking is to always think every aspect of business will run smoothly and according to the original plan for 100% of the time. Business is about adapting to problems that suddenly arise. It is no different for reselling sneakers or clothing; issues come up unexpectedly and require adaptable approaches to stay successful.

There is not a one size fits all approach for every transaction, whether it is a purchase, trade, or sale. Previous experiences can translate to better prepare for the future, but one cannot stay rigid when conducting any sort of reselling business. Product demand and market states constantly fluctuate. Losses must be turned into lessons to avoid any similar mistakes in the future.

Translate to Transpire

The world of reselling provides beneficial hands-on experience that can convey to other ventures in the future. Reselling is not always feasible over an extended period of time. The state of the third party market forever changes, especially due to inflation as of recently. By taking practical experience from the resell market, someone is able to translate it to another business endeavor which opens up more doors for future growth and success.

Theoretical knowledge only gets someone so far. Someone can study theories all day and still gain no real-world experience. The person who takes action gains more insight than the individual who waits years before acting upon their studies. Why not take reselling experience to transpire into a niche venture where an individual can thrive in a unique field?

Various endeavors teach niche topics about the general business overview. Reselling educates individuals the importance of logistics and customer relations.

People complicate business too often. Reselling simplifies commerce and allows people to get a general understanding before diving into a different sector of expertise. Online arbitrage typically exaggerates supply and demand; a product that sells instantly and in high quantities this month may go out of style within only a few weeks to a month in the near future.

Potential Next Moves

Constantly fluctuating markets lead to instability and uncertainty for the future. Anyone interested in sneakers over the past five plus years has seen a meteoric rise in the resale of countless sneakers. The after-market world of sneakers has witnessed more change in only a littler over five years compared to any other period in its existence.

To rely on an unstable market does not provide as much stability compared to other business ventures. A reseller’s dream is to have a completely stable market with constant products in high demand year in and year out. Obviously that will never be the case especially for footwear.

One option is utilizing the market to its full advantage. By studying trends and learning from experience, there is ample room to grow even in an unsteady market.

Another alternative is to put more focus on another endeavor. Someone can specialize in sneaker cleaning, accessories, or custom made sneakers. Any other product that can be marketed to a niche crowd is a viable option too.

Reselling creates opportunities directly and indirectly for individuals to continue to equip themselves with something they can call their own.

Best Sneaker Books

March 2, 2023

Sneaker culture is a relatively young niche compared to others under the fashion and footwear umbrella. Fashion historians often overlook certain subcultures in favor of older or more notable ones. Sneakers books are becoming more popular as the sneaker world continues to widen.

Books are always one of the purest forms of history. Sneaker books showcase stories, articles, opinions, and standout sneakers. As time goes on, more history will be shared and focused on just like any other subculture that floats towards the mainstream.

Historical Sneaker Stories

Countless sneaker books often focus on recent history and latest news, releases, and best of lists. However, there are some intriguing stories that delve into how major and smaller companies alike found a lasting role in the sneaker world. Everyone knows Nike, Adidas, and Puma. Not many people know the history of the household brands and their humble beginnings.

Adidas and Puma have close ties that started decades ago in Germany. Sneaker Wars: The Enemy Brothers Who Founded Adidas and Puma and the Family Feud That Forever Changed the Business of Sport by Barbara Smit focuses on how two brothers founded major sportswear companies that are both well-known across the globe. Athletic footwear brands historically began outside American borders. Germany brought two sportswear brands into the athletic apparel and footwear world in a rather short period of time.

Smit highlights the battles between the Dassler family that ultimately led two separate labels. Both of the German brothers grew up without any ill-intentions towards each other. When they went into business, things shifted drastically. Their falling-out led to two different family companies instead of just family brand.

Oregon Trail

Phil Knight is without a doubt one of the most influential figures in the footwear industry. When he first started out, not many people believed in him, even his own friends and family. If it weren’t for his perseverance and relentless determination, the most popular footwear brand today might very well be one from overseas. In his memoir he goes into great detail about all of the trials and tribulations he had to go through before he saw any sort of success. Nike represents one of the greatest stories to come out of the American sports apparel and footwear industry.

Officially founded in 1972, in Beaverton, Oregon, the corporation started from humble beginnings. The future of Nike was looking bleak when Knight first started his journey before officially founding the world-renowned sportswear company.

Knight attended the University of Oregon where he met Bill Bowerman, one of the most iconic American track and field coaches in the history of the sport. Phil Knight kept close ties with Bowerman that would be integral to the rest of his life. The two ultimately became co-founders of Nike, one of the world’s most recognizable sportswear brands of the late twentieth and the entirety of the twenty-first century so far.

Shoe Dog, goes into great detail about Phil Knight’s personal life, his early days of his entrepreneurial journey, and the Nike days up until the mid 2010s. Since being published in 2016, the memoir has been widely accepted and recognized as one of the best sneaker books of the past decade. Bill Gates even named Shoe Dog as one of his favorite books of 2016. Any Nike fan or sneaker enthusiast should check out Phil Knight’s memoir.

Best of 2018-19

Every year, the best sneaker lists are released after long waits. Collaborations typically make up the majority of the lists with very few exceptions. Sneaker books that recap particular releases throughout the years are always interesting to look back on.

Many collabs stand out effortlessly in this short period of time. Union, Travis Scott, and Off-White had memorable sneakers released that many enthusiasts will never forget. Out of Stock Sneakers: 2018-2019 showcases some unforgettable rare sneakers in a unique and unconventional way. King-Masa effortlessly makes this read easy and enjoyable. Anyone looking to add to a coffee table collection should seek out this publication.

NB 550 x Aime Leon Doré Review

February 15, 2023

Aime Leon Doré x New Balance 550 Purple

New Hype, Same Label

Anybody who is somewhat interested in sneakers knows how popular New Balance (NB) has been over the past few years. Especially due to collaborations with various labels and designers, the brand founded in Boston has seen an increase in demand for a majority of its models. Only five years ago someone wearing New Balances would have been viewed as an outsider in the sneaker community; Jordans and Adidas still run the game, but NB has proved itself to be a strong competitor who takes pride in comfort and craftsmanship. The NB 550 has seen an exorbitant rise in popularity over the past few years.

The New Balance 550s have gained tons of attention since they have been relaunched in 2020. The model initially released out in 1989 when low-top basketball sneakers were not a common sight in the late ’80s. Thanks to Teddy Santis, the founder of the New York based fashion and lifestyle brand Aimé Leon Dore (ALD), the New Balance 550 saw an overdue revival and tons of hype surrounding the silhouette. Santis helped kickstart the 550 craze in September 2020 when he decided to team up with New Balance and bring the model out of the vault. Since then, the NB 550 has proved to be a retro sneaker that has been part of the “dad shoe” trend over the past few years. There are no signs of slowing down for the New Balance 550 anytime soon.

Recent NB x ALD Collabs

The recent pack of the Aimé Leon Dore x New Balance 550 comes in three colorways- brown, olive, and purple. All three have their own unique colors, but the purple stood out the most to me personally. The recent batch of 550s all sport the same color blocking as the first group that was released in 2020. Teddy Santis knows how to execute a sneaker collab to near perfection. There are not many aspects you can nitpick about his work with New Balance.

Overall, the ALD x NB 550 is a timeless retro sneaker that is extremely versatile and wearable. From basketball shorts to cargos pants to chinos and joggers, the 550 can be worn with a wide variety of clothing. The “aged” midsole is a perfect shade of cream; the aged trend can be a hit or miss, but the look on the NB 550 is a no brainer. The model already flaunts vintage looks, so the cream midsole is a perfect touch to a classic sneaker

New Balance is in a weight class with the big boys now. Obviously Nike and Jordan have been the frontrunner for quite some time with no signs of slowing down. However, New Balance has given Adidas a run for their money. Collaborations as of lately have propelled NB into one of the most popular sneaker brands over the last few years. Made in USA shoes have been a staple of New Balance for quite some time. They typically have better quality control and higher standards than other footwear giants who focus more on mass production which causes a considerable drop-off in quality. Especially in the ALD x New Balance 550, the quality is well worth the retail price.

Proven Quality

The leather on the ALD 550s feels sturdy and is of solid quality overall. This particular pair has great attention to detail and excellent quality control; the simplicity makes the sneakers a unique and often wearable pair. The purple is a very dark shade which allows for a high wearability. Cream and off-white compliment each other to near perfection. A simple yet distinctive pair like the ALD x NB 550 brings a classic look back with a modern twist.

The shade of purple is dark enough to pair well with a variety of colors, but is not too bright either. ALD’s logo on the insole adds a nice touch to the subtle aspects of this pair. Cream and purple on the soles makes for a unique combo that compliment the midsole and upper hues.

Distinct logos are no stranger to the NB x ALD 550 collab. Aimé Leon Dore’s apple/New York logo stands out and represents quality goods. Anyone who pays attention to the New York based label knows their clothing is constructed with care and high caliber materials. ALD takes pride in being simple yet unique; this particular pair displays the classic logo that is recognizable at first sight.

New Balance x Aimé Leon Dore

Collabs with extra features separate from the sneakers stand out compared to those that don’t. Extra laces come in cream and purple for this particular pair. Both would compliment the shoes well, but the cream or white would look best for a classic look.

Basketball is a common motif in Aimé Leon Dore’s collections, photos, logos, and brand inspiration. New Balance collaborated with Santis of ALD on a hoop-themed collection of apparel, bags, and accessories. The “All-City Sonny League” collection seeks to bring people together; the main expression for the set is “International Friendship Through Basketball.” Teddy Santis found his own lane to bring basketball and retro shoes and apparel together in a seamless fashion. He continues to hone in and focus on basketball in his ties with New Balance.

The box would be the only negative aspect in the ALD NB 550 partnership. Although the Aimé Leon Dore spell out adds a unique touch to the typical New Balance box, the overall quality is subpar to say the least. The box is extremely flimsy and feels cheap. New Balance stayed true to the original 550s with a vintage look and feel.

The New Balance basketball-apple-caterpillar logo gives the tongue a classic and contemporary addition. ALD logos are not lacking on the 550 collab. Teddy Santis’s branding stands out with the basketball-apple printed on one insole and on the back tab as well. He makes sure to stay true to New York, keeping the recognized logo pure and noticeable.

Creative Connection

Teddy Santis is a monumental figure in New Balance’s revival of the 550. The two forces teamed up to bring some hype to relaunch the model before releasing more GR pairs that anyone can get their hands on. The ALD raffle for the recent brown, olive, and purple NB 550s was handled extremely well; the site was simple to enter on and allowed individuals to enter for all three colorways to increase their chances of securing a pair. Anyone who was not selected for the raffle got an opportunity to preorder the colorways they missed out on the first time.

Many people have mixed feelings about preorders. Although the preorders will not ship until Spring 2023, Aimé Leon Dore made sure their supporters would be taken care of. For anyone who wanted a pair of ALD 550s and did not care about resell prices or hyping “dying down,” the raffle and preorder gave both NB and ALD fans a deserving chance to secure a pair for retail price.

New Balance has stepped up to the plate over the recent years. Collabs with Aimé Leon Dore, Joe Fresh Goods, and JJJJound have proved to come with high expectations, quality materials, and exceptional execution.

ALD x NB 550 On Feet

Outlook for Aimé Leon Dore

The future between ALD and New Balance looks promising. Both labels clearly have chemistry together; they will have more models and collections to work on and explore more possibilities for future collaborations. Teddy Santis prides himself on quality rather than quantity. New Balance has been moving in the same direction especially when they manufacture some sneakers in the States. Obviously, they could mass-produce far more pairs overseas with inferior materials. New Balance and ALD are a near perfect fit as they would rather look for higher quality pieces even if profits slightly decrease.

Santis brings an original flare to streetwear and sneakers. He knows how to connect with the youth and continues to put out quality pieces that resonate with many people. Basketball brings people together no matter how they relate to it; Santis has been able to use a few essential themes to lead the way for Aimé Leon Dore. Brands like New Balance are working with young, up and coming, and relatable creatives and artists now more than ever in the history of the Boston-based brand.

Overall, New Balance and Aimé Leon Dore have an established connection with no signs of slowing down. Future apparel collections and more sneakers will continue to showcase the creative focus of each contributor. Both parties will have the room to stay true to their respective brands while experimenting with subtle yet appealing changes. Teddy Santis is not taking his foot off the pedal with his creative control in collaboration with New Balance.

Boost- The Rise and Fall

February 3, 2023

Anyone interested in sneakers knew how powerful Adidas was at its peak in the past decade. Collabs with Kanye West and Pharrell Williams soared in terms of demand and popularity. The German-founded footwear and apparel label heavily relied on classic models like the Superstar and Stan Smiths for most of the brand’s existence. There was a rather recent monumental “boost” that impacted the industry as a whole.

Kanye West’s Yeezy line is arguably the best thing to happen to Adidas since its creation in 1949. However, before the existence of Yeezys came an influential model that propelled the sneaker label to new heights. With the introduction of the Ultra Boost, Adidas brought itself to the forefront of lifestyle, streetwear, and athleisure niches simultaneously. After Kanye was first seen rocking a pair of Ultra Boosts, the rest fell into place for the new silhouette that debuted in 2015. Shortly after, the first Yeezy dropped and Adidas never looked back (for a while).

Time For A Boost

During the middle of the 2010s, Adidas sought after a new identity. The brand with the three stripes desperately needed more leverage to stay up to par with its biggest competitors. Generally, Adidas was seen as a brand focusing on classic models originally released decades ago. Nike was always the more innovative and better looking big brother; nobody could ever get the two brands confused in terms of versatility.

In 2015, Adidas released the Ultra Boost, which is still considered one of the most comfortable shoes on the market today. The innovative “boost” took the sneaker industry by storm. Responsive and bouncy materials allowed for an experience close to “walking on clouds.” The new silhouette became an instant classic especially when Kanye West started to wear them. Ultra Boosts helped Adidas stay relevant as they came out with an innovative and visually appealing sneaker that would appeal to sneaker enthusiasts and everyday people alike.

Adidas knew it was time for change and introduced the boost technology that propelled the label through the rest of the decade. Collaborations have always been popular, but soon became a staple for many sneaker brands in recent history. The artists a label chooses to work with says a lot about the overall brand itself. Adidas realized the potential it had with numerous creatives and designers.

The Life of Yeezy

Many sneakerheads appreciate the Nike Air Yeezy and and Air Yeezy II even if they like the shoe or not. The releases sold out instantly and paved the way for other non-athletes to collaborate with footwear giants. After a brief stint with Nike, Kanye West was a free agent in the sneaker world. Despite not being an athlete, the Chicago-based rapper and designer sought to make monumental deals in the fashion world. He would not let his talents be denied simply due to the fact that he had no professional sporting experience.

In November 2013, Adidas and Kanye West inked an endorsement deal that would change the sneaker game forever. Ten years prior, nobody could imagine a fashion designer signing a deal like West did with the German sportswear company. Adidas Yeezy or simply Yeezy was founded shortly after the deal. The duo debuted the first Yeezy in 2015 with the Adidas Yeezy Boost 750. The high-top sneaker was just the beginning of the long run for West and the footwear giant he partnered with.

The Yeezy 350 Boost came out in Summer 2015 and became an instant hit. Releasing several colorways of the first model and eventually a V2, Adidas and Kanye were on a tear for multiple consecutive years. Other models such as the 700s, and most recently the Foam Runners proved to be extremely popular as well. People who were die-hard Nike fans ventured outside of their typical habits. Even non-sneaker enthusiasts quickly picked up on Yeezys. The new kicks were a hit in cities, suburbs, the States, across the pond, and virtually anywhere people wear sneakers. Kanye West and Adidas showed no signs of stopping as the decade started to come to a close.

Adidas Yeezy 350 Boost Turtle Dove (SneakerNews.com)

Jumped Over Jumpman

Along with its meteoric rise in the new Yeezy line, Adidas saw its overall sales evidently skyrocket. Collaborations with Pharrell, Pusha T, and brands like Bape, Palace, and Undefeated pushed other products besides Yeezys such as Ultra Boosts and NMDs. Boost was practically in every sneaker retail and resale store around the world. The German-founded brand gained more respect in competition with its American-based big brother. Rather than its typical role of playing second fiddle, Adidas was seen as the 1B to the 1A of Nike around 2015/2016.

Nike had Jordan while Adidas had Yeezy. Sneaker enthusiasts everywhere could not stop the comparisons between J’s and Yeezys. Everyone had to put in their two cents no matter if it was warranted or not. Even Kanye West added to fuel to the fire when he dropped an unofficial diss track towards Nike. In his song, “Facts,” on The Life of Pablo, West clearly let the world know how he felt about Jordan Brand:

“Yeezy, Yeezy, Yeezy just jumped over Jumpan.”

The debates of whether Yeezy did in fact jump over Jumpman only intensified after the song released in February 2016. Despite the rapid rise of the Yeezy line, Jordan has been around for far longer and resonates with more people across the world. Jumpman’s numbers are almost untouchable compared to those of other sneaker brands.

Post Ye

Adidas has a lot of questions to answer as the 2020s bring a new era for the company. As the 2010s came to a close, the Yeezy line started to slow down despite still remaining popularity among the masses. The brand with the three stripes eventually lost its spot as the unanimous number two sneaker company in the world. The gap between two and three is a lot slimmer than it was in the middle of the last decade.

After the huge news of Adidas annihilating their deal with Kanye West in October 2022, the sportswear company no longer boasts a clear outlook as the new decade progresses. Sales inevitably crashed shortly after the news broke out. Even with Adidas releasing the same models without the Yeezy name, many people will most likely not purchase the sneakers with the same price point.

The rest of the decade will determine how the German-based sportswear company’s future will look. There is still time to rebound after the Kanye West era, but Adidas must act fast before they are pushed to the wayside by numerous competitors. Only time will tell how Adidas will overcome the roadblock after losing their biggest endorsement deal in the company’s history.

Sneaker Outlook 2023

December 29, 2022

The sneaker community has gone through plenty of ups and downs this year alone. From legal battles between StockX and Nike to Zadeh Kicks declaring bankruptcy to most recently Adidas dropping Yeezy and Kanye West, this year has been nothing short of eventful. Even though the sneaker market is down, like the overall economy, there are still bright spots to look forward to in the upcoming year. The sneaker outlook for 2023 is sure to include countless shifting tides.

Nobody can predict the future of sneakers, but trends give an educated guess that allows sneaker lovers everywhere to analyze how things will be in the near future. The Jordan 1 High saw its peak in terms of popularity within the past few years; the trend has came to a screeching halt earlier this year. Nike Dunks have also been a trend that has been revived since its early 2000s days.

The sneaker outlook for the year ahead should hold a lot of answers particularly concerning online releases. There has been a heavy favorite to online shopping even before the pandemic started; the days of first come first serve with lines out the door are almost extinct. Every now and then sneaker drop lines may pop up, but it is nowhere near as it was before 2020. Bots have taken a hit as well since the overall value of limited shoes have gone down on secondary market buy/sell apps. Proxies have gone up in price too and are often only worth purchasing if someone has a top bot which is harder to come by in today’s age.

Drifts and Shifts

Trends across sneakers have changed countless times over the past few years. High tops to low tops to slides have all been popular in numerous aspects. New Balance has seen a surge in popularity thanks to their anticipated collaborations with creatives like Joe Freshgoods, Teddy Santis, and Salehe Bembury.

Partnerships across various brands have proved to produce some of the most sought after sneakers throughout the past few decades. Everyone knows the household names. Lately, there has been an increase in smaller labels who may have previously flown under the radar. Collaborations allow for more creativity and artists/creatives to show their unique twist on recognizable silhouettes. In the sneaker outlook for next year, partnerships between sneaker powerhouses and creatives show no sign of slowing down anytime soon .

The Jordan High 1s and the Nike Dunks have seen their peaks and some noticeable dips as of recently. Who knows what the next hot model will be for the brand with the check. Air Maxes have seen a resurgence lately with some noticeable collaborations with Cactus Jack. The Air Max 1 and 90 are some of the most popular models in the line and should be front runners for a potential spike in sales and popularity.

Brand Popularity

Across the sneaker industry, everyone knows Nike has been and will be number one for years to come. With Kanye’s departure within Adidas, the number two spot is up for taking. New Balance is a clear favorite to secure a spot among the top footwear brands around the world. Puma has a few surges every now and then with their basketball shoes. However, the German founded brand still doesn’t have the same appeal in their casual footwear line.

Smaller brands like SIA and Mache have seen an increase in popularity within the past few years. Nike has been exposed for countless quality control issues. People who take their business to independent labels do not have to worry about the level of quality. There is a prevalent boutique-like experience when dealing with well-crafted sneakers by the likes of Mache, SIA and The Shoe Surgeon.

Designer brands have focused more attention to sneakers and are not shy about crossing into the streetwear and casual footwear industries as well. Gucci’s collaborations with Adidas and Palace Skateboards show the gap between designer and casual wear/streetwear is not always far apart. Of course when fashion houses work with other brands, the prices will often reflect that of the higher end of the spectrum.

The highly anticipated Louis Vuitton Nike Air Force 1 Lows by Virgil Abloh did not disappoint. Less than a year after Abloh’s sudden death, Nike teamed up with the European fashion house to honor the late designer. The release was heard all of the world. Anyone who is somewhat interested in high-end fashion, sneakers, or streetwear knew about one of the most hyped and prepared for sneaker releases over the past five years.

Online Releases

One of the most important aspects for next year’s sneaker outlook is security and privacy. Bot protection will never escape conversations held around the world. More sites have proved to be showing at least some effort. Quizzes and captchas to filter out bots have sometimes given manual users a better chance. However, numerous sites still implement the same security measures. There will never be a definite solution for either side in this matter.

People will always complain about the lack of bot protection for almost every release. Bots have decreased in overall efficiency. Proxies have gone up noticeably and bot rentals have gone down exponentially. Not many people are looking to spend hundreds, if not thousands of dollars on a setup before getting an attempt to checkout a single pair. The rise of the sneaker resell market rose astronomically over the past five years. Everyone and their mother could get a few pairs here and there if they put just a little time and effort. Now, the input is rarely worth the output unless someone has an expensive setup and a reliable proxy/internet provider.

Sneaker outlook- Air Jordan 1 University Blue

Hyped online releases significantly decrease the odds significantly for manual users. However, the clearest advantage is the level of accessibility when products are available in a reasonable time frame. When kicks are sitting online and not selling out instantly, the ability to checkout a pair on your phone while being virtually anywhere in the world is extremely valuable.

Online sneaker shopping has taken over social media recently. Sneaker brand account pages have been known to drop shoes randomly on Instagram to surprise people from time to time. Sometimes people have trouble checking out on sites with poor traffic management. Social media shops are typically quick, easy to navigate, and reliable.

Promoting Individuality

Over the past five or so years, the sneaker game has opened its doors to more labels. A select number of brands ran the sneaker world over the past few decades. Underground and smaller labels are more accepted now than ever throughout the history of sneakers. The rise in creatives pushing their own sneakers has blossomed recently. Creatives finessed loopholes to come up with their own knock-off versions of Air Force Ones and Jordan 1 Highs in the recent past. Nike has put an abrupt end to dealing with bootleg sneakers with a federal trademark protection of the Air Jordan 1 that became official June 2021.

To mass produce quality sneakers requires enormous overhead and warehouse space. The rise of independent labels like Mache and SIA have shown that quality proves to be essential for smaller creatives. Labels who produce a limited run or a preorder allow for a manageable production phase; they don’t need to front the exorbitant costs like Nike and Adidas do on the regular. Focusing on a niche market lets creatives hone in on their unique specialties.

The Shoe Surgeon customizes sneakers with premium materials. He works on well known sneakers like Air Jordans, Yeezys, and designer brands like Louis Vuitton and Dior. Most of his pairs release in limited runs with four to five figure price tags. Independent sneaker labels build an extremely loyal following to appeal to a certain crowd. They create a personalized touch that cannot be felt with the footwear giants. The sneaker outlook for 2023 should continue to work in favor of independent labels who have extremely loyal customers

Prospective Sneaker Outlook

In today’s age, different sneaker brands are more accepted by those who are passionate about them and casual wearers alike. Back in the day, the freshest and coolest sneakers were always Nike or Jordan. Now, labels like New Balance have become more mainstream and pushed the narrative in favor of brands outside of Nike and Adidas. The hottest kicks of the year are often still Nikes or Jordans and sometimes Adidas sneakers. Other brands like NB, Puma, and Asics all have shown promising and effective releases to appeal to a wider audience. It is more acceptable than ever to wear other brands besides the largest in the footwear industry.

Sneaker outlook- Adidas Ultra Boost DNA ZX 8000

Sneakers have stories to tell.

Everyone who loves sneakers know how they represent more than just the physical shoes. There are often stories and backgrounds behind the materialistic aspect of sneakers; people who go crazy about sneakers often relate more to the deeper meaning and what a pair of shoes represents than how the shoe looks on the outside.

Brands outside of Nike and Adidas should continue to see an increase in popularity. Also, independent designers will look to find new ways to adapt to Nike’s copyright and trademark protections that put countless creatives out of business. Collaborations will no doubt boast some of the best sneakers of the year. Next year will determine how the rest of the decade will play out in the sneaker world. Will Nike separate itself more from its competitors or will other contenders arise?

Listen to the stories to figure out why sneakers are more than just a pair of shoes. The 2023 sneaker outlook should be interesting to see how things play out by this time next year.