Anyone who is interested in sneakers has most likely seen at least one episode of Complex’s “Sneaker Shopping.” The hit series brings celebrities from all walks of life to discuss their personal style and tell stories about sneakers. Complex has continuously put out original sneaker content with the help of Joe La Puma.
Sneaker shopping is not always glamorous. Sometimes the sneakers someone wants aren’t available in-store or they cannot find their size in stock. However, “Sneaker Shopping” glorifies the shopping experience and often attracts individuals outside of the sneaker world.
Fresh and Original Episodes
YouTube has an abundance of content. Many niches are oversaturated and contain recycled content. Especially within sneakers, countless YouTube channels seem to post the same type of videos as their competitors. Success often (but not always) requires a fresh perspective.
Although Complex doesn’t always provide the most original content, they definitely brought a new idea to the sneaker world of YouTube.
“Sneaker Shopping” hosted by Joe La Puma gives viewers a look into the minds of their favorite celebrities. Fast-paced and lively interviews kick off each edition of the show.
Notable Show Guests
Any popular YouTube series will draw in wider audiences with the guest stars ranging from actors, athletes, rappers, and even comedians. Complex knows they would be limiting the show’s potential if they only sought out guests who are already infatuated with sneakers. Some guests who love sneakers may not keep up to date with news and upcoming releases.
Guests often make or break episodes of live shows like “Sneaker Shopping.” The stories told are unique and often light-hearted. Joe La Puma interviews every guest well and asks relevant questions to keep the content engaging.
Some of the most notable guests of Complex’s sneaker series include Quavo, Takeoff (RIP Legend), and Offset, Samuel L. Jackson, Marshawn Lynch, Rick Ross, Neymar, and Druski. The biggest names make appearances on the hit show and provide interesting and unique perspectives.
Joe La Puma has perfected his craft because he lets the guests practically run the show. Viewers are interested in what their favorite celebrity, athlete, or artist is wearing and where they get inspiration from.
Complex makes sure the guests are the highlight of the series. From big spenders to brand enthusiasts, every guest provides a different outlook on their view towards sneakers as a whole.
Sneaker Shopping: Genuine Interactions
Most of the “Sneaker Shopping” episodes showcase genuine interactions between Joe La Puma and the countless guests. Every guest brings intriguing perspectives that are brought to light thanks to Complex.
Shopping experiences aren’t always viewed in a positive light for numerous reasons. However, Complex puts out original content with “Sneaker Shopping” to show more positivity surrounding sneaker shopping.
The need for more positive content on YouTube and the internet in general will never go away. Jealousy and hate is no stranger online especially in the sneaker community. As sneakers have become more mainstream, there are less genuine interactions than back in the day. Many people only look for profit and do not actually care about sneakers, the history behind them or the culture as a whole.
It’s refreshing to see Complex put out content that is original and authentic. Viewers clearly see different guest personalities. It’s interesting and insightful to see how celebrities, athletes, and artists all come to various reasonings behind what they like and what they don’t. Everyone grows up differently which directly influences how they portray themselves in the future.
Joe La Puma does an excellent job of bringing out authentic personalities on “Sneaker Shopping.” He asks intriguing questions about their background, what they like to rock, and how they first got into sneakers. Guests are open to answering questions about sneakers, fashion, and anything in between.
Nobody wants to watch a dry interview without any witty interactions. Complex ensures that guests and Joe La Puma work together to provide a genuine, enjoyable experience for sneaker lovers and countless viewers.
Complex’s Big Ballers
At the end of every episode, the show’s guests shop for sneakers in a secondhand, retail, or resell store. They browse quickly in the episode, but are not shy from spending someone’s rent in a matter of minutes.
Some of the most notable spenders drop huge bills on highly sought after sneakers. At the end of every episode, all sneaker purchases are highlighted in a dramatic fashion. Many viewers would not drop the prices shown on Complex’s “Sneaker Shopping” but can still appreciate how certain sneakers blossom in value over time. Some classics will stay at the top for obvious reasons while some shoes have high resell value strictly due to hype.
In 2019, the YouTube series saw some of its biggest ballers. The history of Complex “Sneaker Shopping” may never see these records broken.
2019 Record Setters
P.J. Tucker, an NBA player more known for his crazy sneaker collection, has one of the highest spending records on the show and the highest of 2019 for strictly sneakers. He dropped just over $33,000 (which is not much to someone in his tax bracket). To see celebrities and athletes pay the price of a brand new car on sneakers baffles many people, even sneakerheads.
Complex also saw another record set in 2019. The Atlanta-based rapper Future spent almost forty racks on sneakers and designer clothing. Future’s episode was one that countless viewers will never forget.
The top “Sneaker Shopping” spender of 2019 was the rapper Juice WRLD (RIP) with a total just over $42,000. Some of the highest spenders on Complex’s hit series puts things into perspective for many sneaker enthusiasts. Many people wouldn’t think about spending that type of money on sneakers and clothing (both depreciating assets).
While Sneaker Shopping is on a quick summer break, we analyzed the top 5 spending sprees in the show's history.
— Complex Sneakers (@ComplexSneakers) June 17, 2019
Watch: https://t.co/YnRIw2Gxs6 pic.twitter.com/Pi3suY73Bj
However, these high-spending episodes show an foreign lifestyle. Countless viewers will not be able to relate and often would rather watch episodes where guests come across as less alienated and more down to earth.
Complex’s “Sneaker Shopping” brings viewers all around the world with one common objective- buying sneakers. Guests highlight the show and add new flare to every episode. Many YouTube channels have tried to emulate Complex’s hit sensation, but have never found the same type of success. Complex will keep their foot on the accelerator and will continue to look for improvements for “Sneaker Shopping.”
