Sneaker Boxxx

PSP in a shoe

2005-11-16T11:27:00.000-08:00

Check out this short PSP Fashion film by The Neistat Brothers and see what the kids in
the streets had to say about the PSP Fashion cases. There was even a PSP build into a shoe!

Watch the movie!

Aeon Flux Asics

2005-11-11T05:39:00.000-08:00

The Fencing LA™, as seen on Charlize Theron in the movie Aeon Flux.

Past, present or future, the Fencing LA brings the uniqueness of the sport of fencing to the streets in a fashion infused style.

http://www.asicsamerica.com/aeonflux/

You can buy a pair here for $70
http://www.asicsamerica.com/onitsukatiger/aeonflux2.htm

360 Degrees of AI

2005-11-10T07:14:00.000-08:00

Check out the new creative from Reebok. It's 360 degrees of AI.

http://www.rbk.com/answer9

Hulk Bape's Hit EBAY.com

2005-11-10T05:50:00.000-08:00

I like them because they are packaged like a action figure.

Place your rib right here! $280 starting price

Nike Mexican Blanket P-Rods

2005-11-09T18:54:00.000-08:00

Nike Mexican blanket P-Rods the sneakers use different parts of the Mexican blanet to craft the shoe. I really like these.

REEBOK PUTS CABLE VIEWERS IN DEMAND

2005-11-08T19:50:00.000-08:00

Brand Becomes Founding Sponsor of First Hip-Hop On Demand Cable Channel DoD

Canton, MA (November 8, 2005) Reebok (NYSE: RBK) announces a partnership agreement with DoD, the new video-on-demand (VOD) subsidiary of Simmons Lathan Media Group. DoD will debut on November 11, 2005 nationwide on Comcast Cables ON DEMAND menu. Reebok will have its own programming within DoD, a first-ever for an athletic brand. Digital cable viewers will be able to view Rbk-branded programming free of charge, including exclusive interviews with Allen Iverson, 50 Cent, Jay-Z and other Rbk content.

Taking customization to a whole new level, cable viewers now control what they want to watch and best of all when. Rbk will host a series of branded VOD segments that can be viewed anytime by fans of the brand and its endorsees.

Reebok is excited to partner with an entertainment channel so in-tune with youth and hip-hop culture, said Marc Fireman, Reeboks director of advertising and interactive marketing. DoDs customizable entertainment is a great fit for Rbks own spirit of individuality and authenticity.

Rbk is at the top when it comes to developing meaningful partnerships with entertainers and athletes such as Jay-Z and Allen Iverson, said Will Griffin, DoDs chief executive officer. This quality makes them an ideal partner for a branded-entertainment based venture such as DoD.

According to a recent report, there has been a 28% increase in VOD-enabled cable subscribers in 2005 versus 2004. While DoD is a new venture, this is not Reeboks first foray into VOD entertainment. In April of 2005, Reebok ran a four-month, personalized television experience on Comcast Cable in the Philadelphia market. Behind-the-scenes footage of Allen Iversons I Am What I Am ad was the most viewed content ON DEMAND during the four months it was available.

Comcast ON DEMAND will feature one-of-a-kind content, said Kevin Paolillo, Reeboks director of video production. Exclusive programs debuting on November 11th include: behind-the-scenes footage and interviews with Jay-Z, 50 Cent and Allen Iverson on the sets of their Rbk ad shoots and a Flip the Script interview between 50 Cent and Tony Yayo of G Unit.

Reebok enrolled the expertise of on-demand and interactive television ad firm BrightLine Partners to oversee the brands seamless integration into DoD. BrightLines hands-on, experience-driven approach in iTV helped Reebok to push the envelope of what is possible in branded entertainment, resulting in a strategically designed VOD campaign.

Launched in November, 2005, DoD is the first all video-on-demand channel devoted to hip-hop and urban programming. Headquartered in Los Angeles, DoD is a wholly owned subsidiary of Simmons Lathan Media Group (SLMG), which produces and acquires original urban/hip-hop themed media content for distribution across all media. DoD is a new grassroots brand and direct channel redefining the way urban media content is developed and distributed to the 45.3 million-plus ethnically diverse urban consumer audience. DoD Founding Sponsors are long-time supporters of the growth of Hip Hop Culture: Coca-Cola, General Motors and Reebok. The company is also backed by Syndicated Communications and Pacesetter Capital Group, the leading private equity funds in urban media. More information may be found by visiting www.DoDpresents.com.

Reebok International Ltd. (NYSE: RBK), headquartered in Canton, MA, is a leading worldwide designer, marketer and distributor of sports, fitness and casual footwear, apparel and equipment under the Reebok, Rockport, CCM, Jofa, Koho and Greg Norman brands. Sales for 2004 totaled approximately $3.8 billion. Reebok can be accessed at www.reebok.com.

That's HOT: New Balance M576

2005-11-08T19:17:00.000-08:00

Bapeclusive? Kicksclusive?

2005-11-06T22:19:00.000-08:00

Humm...Bape has just opened up a new storein Japan called Bapeclusive. The name is very simular to the popular sneaker magazine Kicksclusive. Nigo needs to send a shout out to Louis for holding down sneaker culture. Anyway you can check out more info on Bape Here!

The store is filled with all things Bape. I want to go there badly.

Marvel Comics Bape's

2005-11-06T22:15:00.000-08:00

Check them out via Hype Beast

Something different from New Balance

2005-11-06T22:10:00.000-08:00

These are pretty dope. The are coming out in JP but maybe we will see them here in the US.

Magic32

2005-11-05T01:08:00.000-08:00

With NBA giants, there is always competition for the spot as the greatest, and this competition continues when it comes to sneaker and apparel lines.

NBA legend Erving "Magic" Johnson launched his inaugural sneaker and apparel line Magic32 this fall. Johnson's goal was to create a line that would be affordable and stylish without jeopardizing quality.

"The primary focus of Magic32 will be to combine fashion, quality and performance at affordable prices," said Johnson to magic32usa.com.

"I really wanted to launch a line that everybody in the family could afford and still be hot for the kids," he added.

After a few weeks on the market, there is a lot of commotion about his new line.

"It's a good idea that he is trying to make something semi-stylish yet affordable, especially since he's a role model. Kids, they look up to him and will get their parents to buy them," said Aliyya Clark, sophomore TV production major/fashion merchandizing minor.

Junior administration justice major, Cliffone Ault, believes in the idea, "I like the whole movement," Ault said.

However, others believe that Johnson is trying to do more then just push an affordable sneaker and apparel line.

Sophomore psychology major Arlandus Hood doesn't like the idea, "It's just another way for Magic to get money; people are going to buy them just because [of] the name, but they're ugly."

Consumers who are aware of the Magic32 line are focusing their attention on the sneakers rather then the apparel, and are constantly comparing them to the Nike brand, Air Jordan line and Shaquille O'Neal's sneaker line. Magic32usa.com

Zip up your sneakers girls

2005-11-05T01:02:00.000-08:00

Marshmallow Skins are a new line of girls tennis shoes allowing you to change colors by zipping on new "skins". While the skins look kind of shitty the idea is cool. Maybe if they had a designer that could develop something a little more funky fresh it would be more of a wanted item for girls in the US. It could be the next big thing just like Ugg boots.

Each Marshmallow Skins shoe comes with one sole and a set of four zip-on, zip-off canvas tops each in a different pastel color. They come in two different sole heights and with open or classic heel options. Sold in children size 12 to adult size 9, Marshmallow Skins have details such as flower eyelets and glittered soles. They're currently only available in Japan and Australia, but will make their way to the US soon.

Microsoft and Adidas

2005-10-05T05:03:00.000-07:00

Microsoft and Adidas have made a partnership to do more cross promotion with Adidas the launch of the Xbox 360 and the Fifa World Cup 2006. The partnership will include placement of Xbox 360 kiosks in Adidas stores across the globe, Adidas will install content on Xbox 360 consoles. What's cool about this is that for a long time I've felt that with the storage space on the 360 they sould have more pre-install goodies. I think artist face plates and pre-loaded album buldles would be a really cool way to promote music.

Read the full story at Joystiq

New iPod with streaming video - get free engraving & free shipping.

Sneaker Pimps NYC

2005-09-27T02:56:00.000-07:00

Sneaker Pimps NYC

The worlds largest tour sneaker show
Date: THURSDAY, 6th of October from 8pm till late
Avalon NYC
20th St @ 6th Ave
47 West 20th St, NYC, NY, 10011
$5 @ the door – 18+ (please bring ID)PUBLIC ENEMY live
LIVE artist instillations:
World Exclusive Methamphibian & SBTG live customization collaboration
Dave White (UK) live painting
Motug live instillation:
FUTURA NYC LASE DOZE GREEN GHOST SHEPARD FAIREY TKID 170
EWOK 5MH CES DIZMOLOGY TOOFLY
STASH
FUTURA
DALEK
STAPLE
JB CLASSICS
JOR ONE live customization
BJ BETTS live tattoo
GRAND HIGH live customization
Married to the Mob instillation
Josh Wisdumb: live painting

SNEAKER PIMPS 3RD USA TOUR.....BACK BIGGER THAN EVER!!!!!!!!!
CITIES DATES:

Sneaker Game.com

2005-09-26T16:26:00.000-07:00

These are HOT!

Nike SB Avengers

2005-09-26T16:24:00.000-07:00

The Game won't change name of sneakers

2005-09-20T05:43:00.000-07:00

While I'm all for free speech and a good cause. Maybe just maybe it wouldn't hurt for the brotha to change the name of the sneakers. And if he's giving proceeds to the hurricane survivors then how much? And if the name has to be cut from advertising then why go through the trouble? I challenge The Game to be more creative and come up with a new name and still give charity to the Hurricane survivors.

************
'Hurricane' Sneakers Give Rap Star a PR Quandary
By Geoff Boucher, Times Staff Writer

When the Compton rap star who calls himself the Game saw his debut album hit No. 1 on the U.S. pop charts in January, he followed the example of other hip-hop artists and parlayed his newfound celebrity into a footwear deal.

But in the wake of Hurricane Katrina, the rapper has faced a public relations dilemma. His new sneaker line, developed for months and due in stores the day after Christmas, is called the Hurricane.

This week, the Game, whose given name is Jayceon Taylor, said he had decided not to scrap plans for the shoes, which will feature a swirl "H" logo and retail for $80 to $95 a pair. But out of deference to the victims of the worst natural disaster in U.S. history, some of the proceeds will be donated to charity and the potentially upsetting name will be cut from ads.
"A portion of the proceeds will go to help people who lost everything, and that will last until the company ceases to exist or until New Orleans is 100% rebuilt," the rapper said. He added that the devastation in the gulf had upset him so deeply he was considering adopting a child from the region. "It's all I can think about when I wake up in the morning," he said.

Soon after the Game's debut album, "The Documentary," was released in January, the rapper partnered with 310 Motoring, a high-end Los Angeles car customization company that is expanding into clothing and shoe ventures.

At the time, 310 Motoring, well known in car culture for its celebrity client list, gave the Game a tricked-out $300,000 Bentley. Now, he is auctioning it off online and has promised to donate any money it raises to storm victims.

But despite such altruism, the Game still is known first and foremost as a gangsta rapper — a label that carries a certain downside. For example, the Game had planned to introduce his sneakers to fashion industry players last week at a major Las Vegas fashion expo. Instead he was ejected from the event by security officials.

The organizers of the Magic Marketplace show say the rapper was asked to leave because his bodyguards had concealed weapons. But the Game said he was told at the time that he himself was the security risk.

"I was profiled unfairly," he said, adding that security officials said their concerns were fueled in part by the recent shooting of rap mogul Marion "Suge" Knight in South Florida.

The Game isn't the first musical act to have plans disrupted by unexpected disaster. The heavy metal band Anthrax and the art house group We Are the World Trade Center struggled after acts of terrorism made their names synonymous with suffering.

For the Game, though, recent events have made him wary.

"I'm sitting here," he said, "waiting for a black cat to come through the window."

Nike Inc. donated $500K

2005-09-07T20:37:00.000-07:00

WASHINGTON, Saturday, September 03, 2005 — Beaverton, Ore. (August 31, 2005) – Nike, Inc., today announced it is donating $500,000 in immediate aid to the American Red Cross.

"Hurricane Katrina’s damage to Mississippi, Alabama, New Orleans and broader Louisiana is devastating," said William D. Perez, President and CEO of Nike, Inc. "The American Red Cross said they need cash most immediately to help provide victims of the storm with food, water, and medical supplies that are being shipped in by boat. We are committed to helping now and with rebuilding efforts going forward."

Impact to Nike Operations:

Nike Inc. has four factory outlet stores in the affected area of Hurricane Katrina, including stores in Gulfport, Mississippi; Foley, Alabama; Destin, Florida; and Commerce Georgia. The store in Gulfport, Mississippi remains structurally intact but closed due to water and roof damage. All other stores are open and operational. At present time, Nike is not aware of any casualties to Nike employees, but is in the process of contacting employees in the Gulfport area, which is experiencing severe telecommunications outages due to the storm.

Nike employees have been inquiring about how to help with relief efforts. Nike is encouraging employees to make immediate cash donations to the American Red Cross through Nike’s employee gift match or directly to the American Red Cross at:

American Red Cross Disaster Relief Fund
PO Box 37243
Washington, DC 20013
The company is also posting updates daily to employees and soliciting input from employees on ideas for further response in the region, including gathering product for donations.

About Nike, Inc.
NIKE, Inc. based in Beaverton, Oregon is the world's leading designer, marketer and distributor of authentic athletic footwear, apparel, equipment and accessories for a wide variety of sports and fitness activities. Wholly owned Nike subsidiaries include Converse Inc., which designs, markets and distributes athletic footwear, apparel and accessories; Bauer NIKE Hockey Inc., a leading designer and distributor of hockey equipment; Cole Haan(R), which designs, markets, and distributes fine dress and casual shoes and accessories; Hurley International LLC, which designs, markets and distributes action sports and youth lifestyle footwear, apparel and accessories and Exeter Brands Group LLC, which designs and markets athletic footwear and apparel for the value retail channel.

Roma JD by Puma

2005-09-06T13:48:00.000-07:00

Puma makes its most recent footprint in the sneaker marketplace with the release of the limited edition Roma JD.

As one of the brand’s premiere athletes, baseball star Johnny Damon will now have his own lifestyle shoe based on one of Puma’s most well known styles, the Roma.

Made in the center fielder’s team colors, the red, white and blue suede Roma JD feature “Johnny D” and his number “18” on the outside quarter.

Damon’s well-known face and signature will reside on the sock bed lining of the shoe.

The sleek, low profile shoe reflects Johnny’s laid back nature while the personalized details celebrate his individual style.

As part of the release of the Roma JD, Puma North America will make a contribution to UNICEF on behalf of Johnny Damon.

Damon, who is part Thai, chose UNICEF because of their efforts to help those affected by last year’s tsunami.

Produced in a limited quantity of only 200 pairs, the Roma JD is sold at three select retailers for $80 from July 13.

The Puma Concept store in Boston (333 Newbury Street), www.puma.com, and The Tannery (11A Brattle Street, Cambridge), will be the three exclusive retailers selling the limited edition shoes.

At each location, there is a limit of one pair per customer.

Save New Orleans

2005-09-01T13:41:00.000-07:00

http://store.yahoo.com/redcross-donate/
http://www.amazon.com/gp/philanthropy/red-cross.html/102-3806668-9292955

Help save a life and help save New Orleans...it must be rebuilt. If you've ever taken a trip to the big easy then you must show your love and show your support in the effots to save lives and rebuild. Make a donation.

2005 Black Weblog Awards

2005-08-27T05:14:00.000-07:00

http://www.blackweblogawards.com/awards.html

Nominate this Blog!!!

Design your own Jack Purcell

2005-08-26T07:32:00.000-07:00

Snoop Dogg Board Company

2005-08-24T14:13:00.000-07:00

Snoop Dogg Launches Skateboard Company

All you muthas get ready to pimp ya skateboards, cuz the Snoop Dogg is comin' to a half-pipe in ya hood!

The new company, named "Snoop Dogg Board Company" is the idea of Snoop Dogg's brother, Bing Worthington, Jr. It will offer a complete line of skateboarding products, including long and short skateboards, accessories, and backpacks. The company is actually the property of Pacific Sports Group Inc., which owns several other lines of skateboarding brands through its Pentagon Distribution subsidiary.

You can select from a variety of board designs that include the Dogg's mug. You can also choose from a variety of "pimp wheels" that also feature the Dogg.

No word yet if they'll offer wheels with spinning hubcaps.

Sneaker Poker Tournament 8/24

2005-08-22T08:41:00.000-07:00

Hello all.. How everything is good!!!

Kicksclusive is dropping issue 9 and would like to invite you all to come
out and join us on Wednesday August 24th for Drinks, Music, Food, Poker and
Kicks!

This event will feature the first ever Sneaker Poker Tournament!

If you want to play in the Tournament, its free entry to play and we are
giving away over $2,000 in prizes! It's a Texas Hold'em style tournament and
seats are limited so if you would like to play please email us at
poker@kicksclusive.com

So all you Sneakerheads, Poker players, Friends and Family please join us at
POP (127 4th Ave. Between 12th and 13th St.) Doors open at 7pm.

Poker Tournament starts at 7:30 Sharp!

See everyone there and thanks for all the support!

Lupe Fiasco

2005-08-16T06:14:00.000-07:00

Currently is hard at work on his debut album "Food Liquor". The upcoming album is co-executive produced by President Carter a.k.a. Jay-Z and features collaborations with Three 6 Mafia, Mike Shinoda of Linkin Park, Needlz and in-house producers Pro & Soundtrakk.

This summer, Lupe will be featured on Kanye West's much-anticipated upcoming album "Late Registration" due in stores August 30th. West recently told MTV.com "Like I have Lupe Fiasco [on a "Late Registration" track] cause I feel he's one of the best MCs coming out, but nobody knows about him yet. So if I put him on, that's ill. That's keeping it real."

In related news, Lupe Fiasco and his company 1st & 15th have collaborated with world famous sneaker customizer, artist & clothing designer ST0404 and his company Street Connoisseurs to produce some very exclusive kicks. Lupe being an avid sneaker collector himself means this collaboration with ST0404 should be no less than one to pay attention to for sneaker fans and fans of Lupe & ST0404

Market Research

2005-08-15T14:45:00.000-07:00

Click here to take a survey
We are in the process of doing a large market research project and if you are a black or latino video gamer and want to tell the gaming industry what you think please fill out the survey.

THANKS!!!!!!!

Adidas Superstars

2005-08-10T15:50:00.000-07:00

These are kind of hot!

Staple Design x Se7en Nations for Sneaker Pimps Exhibition

2005-08-09T13:26:00.000-07:00

Adidas to Buy Reebok for $3.8 Billion

2005-08-03T15:49:00.000-07:00

Adidas said Wednesday it will buy shoemaker Reebok for $3.8 billion, giving the company about 20 percent of the U.S. market. By combining Adidas' popularity in Europe among soccer and athletics fans with Reebok's appeal to U.S. fans of basketball and football, the architects of the sportswear and athletic gear deal hope to create a more muscular rival to world leader Nike.

Adidas-Salomon AG's purchase of Reebok International Ltd. for $59 a share combines two major brands with links to both athletics and lifestyle. That was a healthy 34 percent premium over Reebok's closing price Tuesday.

While Nike Inc. still has the clout to stay on top, it will face a fiercer challenge from a company that will combine their strengths to grab more market share and gain access to bigger markets.

"Adidas-Reebok will make inroads against Nike by presenting a stronger fashion brand, which will also gain wider support and endorsement deals," said Faith Hope Consolo of Prudential Douglas Elliman. "When they present this united brand, they will have the luster to get more endorsements from high-profile athletes."

"Separately they had a very small niche, but together Adidas and Reebok will have a global presence to compete one-on-one with Nike," she said.

At the same time, neither company is forfeiting their own brands. Adidas Chairman and CEO Herbert Hainer said the brands would stay separate but complement each other - a move that is likely to help them in their competition with Nike.

German-based Adidas has its roots in soccer and track and field, while Reebok's line of sneakers and athletic gear is visible across American sports like football, baseball and basketball.

Combining the two, executives said, will mean more access to athletic events just about anywhere there is a stadium.

"This portfolio will present us in all the major sport categories around the world. Reebok is extremely strong in the American sports like NFL, NBA - and Adidas is very strong in the FIFA world cup, the Olympic Games and the European Champions League," Hainer said.

"Two brands individually will add to the value," said Chairman and CEO Paul Fireman of Reebok, which is based in Canton, Mass.

But two brands does not guarantee first place, warned Patrick A. Gaughan, president of the New York-based Economatrix Research Associates Inc.

"One factor which seems to play an important role in market success is being of a critical size and being in the No. 1 or No. 2 market share slots. It is very tough to compete with a dominant firm when you have a market share much smaller than it," he said. "I think this is the case for both Reebok and Adidas - especially in the lucrative U.S. market."

Nike's annual sales are approximately $14 billion worldwide. Adidas has about $8 billion in annual sales while Reebok has nearly $4 billion.

"This is really exciting; it is the first time in that Adidas really has a shot to seriously challenge Nike, which is weak right now from management problems," said Erich Joachimsthaler, CEO of marketing strategy company Vivaldi Partners.

But Adidas must be prepared to handle the larger team of brands, said Joachimsthaler, who worked with Adidas in the early 1990s as a consultant.

"Adidas' focus is technology and performance development, where Reebok is purely sales driven," he said. "The will also have to deal with uniting two companies with almost polar opposite business cultures."

Adidas, turning from a sports shoe company into a lifestyle/entertainment company, must also be careful not to lose its loyal athletes, he said - "there is a fine line between fashion and sportswear."

Reebok has endorsement deals with NBA players Allan Iverson and Yao Ming, said Gaughan, and Adidas has strengths in more international sports like soccer - including David Beckham and the team Real Madrid.

While Nike, based in Beaverton, Ore., has endorsement deals with young basketball stars like Carmello Anthony and LeBron James, Gaughan said, "neither is a Michael Jordan, and the NBA is not what it once was when it had Jordan, (Larry) Bird and Magic Johnson."

Investors cheered the deal. Reebok shares rose $13, or 29.6 percent, to $56.95 in late trading on the New York Stock Exchange, while investors pushed Adidas up 7 percent to 158.20 euros ($192.96) in Frankfurt. Nike shares gained 93 cents to $86.76 on the NYSE.

Gavin Finlayson, an analyst with Commerzbank, said the teaming would give the combined company more muscle in the retail market.

"Adidas, in conjunction with Reebok, has the potential to say, 'We want better terms or conditions or we'll take our business elsewhere,'" Finlayson said.

Consolo said it would also give the companies more reach into different stores.

"Adidas and Reebok will absolutely be able to compete on both a specialty store and department store basis. This will increase not only their market share, but their allocated space within department stores," she said.

The deal is subject to regulatory approval in the United States and Europe as well as by shareholders. The companies said the transaction could close during the first half of 2006.

Adidas said it did not expect any significant reductions in the work forces of both companies. Chief Financial Officer Robin Stalker said the deal would likely lead to little if any significant restructuring costs.

The deal came as Adidas posted a 30 percent profit gain to 67 million euros ($81.7 million) in the quarter ended June 30, up from 45 million euros a year earlier. Sales rose to 1.52 billion euros ($1.85 billion) from 1.4 billion euros.

SNEAKER PIMPS 3RD USA TOUR.....BACK BIGGER THAN EVER!!!!!!!!!

2005-08-01T16:42:00.000-07:00

SNEAKER PIMPS 3RD USA TOUR.....BACK BIGGER THAN EVER!!!!!!!!!CITIES DATES:
Los Angeles 8th & 9th July San Francisco 22nd & 23rd July Chicago 5th & 6th AugustMiami 11th & 12th AugustAtlanta 19th & 20th AugustPhiladelphia 26th & 27th August Boston 23rd, 24th and 25th SeptemberNew York City 8th and 9th October
Sneaker Pimps customization competition in conjunction with the Sneaker Pimps USA Tour 2005, Sneaker Pimps is holding a customization competition where the winner has a chance to have the custom made into a ltd edition RBK sneakers - go here for more details:www.heavy.com/customkicks

sooo hottt

2005-07-31T04:59:00.000-07:00

2005-07-29T05:17:00.000-07:00

Industrial Designers Excellence Awards (IDEAs) was held last week and Nike won a Silver award was for Nike's iD Web site that allows consumers to customize and order their own Nike products.

Hurricane by 310

2005-07-27T05:14:00.000-07:00

The Game is about to help fans and sneaker aficionados step up their game with his signature sneaker line, "Hurricane by 310." The street athletic sneaker will hit select retail stores across the country for the 2005 holiday season, and will be followed by a Hurricane performance basketball shoe in early 2006. Game has partnered with 310 Global Brands, the marketing and merchandising company of the automotive specialists, 310 Motoring. "With the Hurricane sneaker," Game said in a statement, "I"m moving beyond just being an entertainer and becoming an entrepreneur. As an athlete and a sneaker fan, I'm ready to drop my own completely original design - an essential, multipurpose shoe. We're bringing together the two biggest names in LA to make the hottest shoe in the country!"

My Nike Bruin Max

2005-07-22T11:07:00.000-07:00

My Nike Dunk

2005-07-22T10:59:00.000-07:00

MY VANS

2005-07-22T10:53:00.000-07:00

My Chuck Taylor

2005-07-21T19:26:00.000-07:00

I made these on the Converse site...check em out.

Whoa Nelly!

2005-07-20T10:12:00.000-07:00

Whoa Nelly! Reebok Announces Partnership with Multi-Platinum Hip-Hop Sensation
Tuesday July 19, 3:05 pm ET
Grammy Award Winning Rap Artist Nelly Becomes Latest Icon to Join Brand to Create New Excitement in The World of Sports and Music

CANTON, Mass., July 19 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Three-time Grammy Award winner, Nelly and Reebok today announce a long-term partnership that includes a signature collection of athletic footwear, apparel and accessories. The initial launch of the collection will be in holiday 2005 in select boutiques and athletic specialty retailers with an expanded distribution in 2006. The collection will feature clean, aggressive, sport-inspired designs with unique colors and materials that reflect Nelly's personal style and flavor.

"I've always been into sneakers and throughout my career I've always wanted to have a signature pair of sneakers that truly reflect my personal style," said Nelly. "It made the most sense for me to partner with Reebok because they fully understand and respect the culture of sports, music and entertainment."

Nelly will also be featured in Reebok's "I Am What I Am" global advertising campaign. Created by New York advertising agency mcgarrybowen, the "I Am What I Am" campaign celebrates contemporary heroes of today's global youth including music icons, athletes and entertainers. Nelly is the newest star to join the Reebok "I Am What I Am" family which includes Allen Iverson, Jay-Z, Yao Ming, Curt Schilling, 50 Cent, Nicole Vaidisova, Donovan McNabb, Christina Ricci, Stevie Williams, and many more. The multi-faceted campaign links the entire brand's marketing and advertising efforts under the "I Am What I Am" umbrella, and is supported by the company's largest advertising spend in nearly a decade.

"Reebok's partnership with Nelly elevates the fusion of sports and music to a whole new level," says Dennis Baldwin, Reebok's chief marketing officer. "Not only is Nelly an incredible artist, but his passion for music is equally matched by his love of sports. Nelly has a unique style that transcends music and cultural genres with a broad consumer appeal that speaks to who Reebok truly is as a brand."

The partnership was secured with the assistance of Steve Stoute, founder of Translation entertainment marketing firm. Stoute, who serves as a consultant for Reebok, plays a key role in the brand's affiliation in the entertainment industry. "Nelly is a great addition to the Rbk family," said Stoute. "He is grounded in authenticity which makes him a perfect fit for the brand."

Born Cornell Haynes Jr., the St. Louis, Missouri native has long been recognized for his unique style and influence as an entertainer. Nelly has had success across the board from recording hit songs with musicians such as Pharrell Williams, P. Diddy, Tim McGraw and Justin Timberlake. With more than 30 million albums sold throughout his career, Nelly is universally acknowledged as one of the top selling rap artists of all-time.

Not simply satisfied with making music, Nelly, outfitted in Reebok apparel, scored plenty of touchdowns as a star in the film "The Longest Yard". Additionally, the one-time baseball prospect that was scouted by the Pittsburgh Pirates and Atlanta Braves of Major League Baseball, became only the second music artist to become part owner of an NBA franchise as he joined the expansion Charlotte Bobcats. In addition to participating in baseball and basketball, Nelly has performed at two Super Bowls during his music career (Super Bowls XXXV and XXXVIII).

Reebok International Ltd. (NYSE: RBK - News), headquartered in Canton, MA, is a leading worldwide designer, marketer and distributor of sports, fitness and casual footwear, apparel and equipment under the Reebok, Rockport, CCM, Jofa, Koho and Greg Norman brands. Sales for 2004 totaled approximately $3.8 billion. Reebok can be accessed on the World Wide Web at http://www.reebok.com.

Lance Armstrong Sneakers!!!!!!!! HOT!!!!!!!!!!!

2005-07-20T09:25:00.000-07:00

NIKE ID is doing it REAL BIG!

2005-07-20T09:22:00.000-07:00

WASHINGTON -- Nike.com sells almost 200 styles of sneakers for men and women -- which, for some footwear fiends, apparently isn't choice enough. In fact, the convenience of being able to shop online isn't enough.

Enter NikeID.com, the Web site where you can design a one-of-a-kind shoe using dozens of colors and fabrics. Candy-apple low-tops with a lime-green swoosh? Caramel trainers with your initials embroidered on the back? Dream up combinations from the colors offered, click until you've got it right, and custom-made shoes can be delivered to your doorstep in about three weeks -- for only $10 or so more than their non-customized counterparts.

While NikeID's shoes have become must-haves among those with a sneaker fetish, they also herald a larger trend: the "just-have." As in, just you have it.

Nike has been selling custom designs since 1999 and has more than doubled the number of custom sales every year since then. But when the company relaunched the NikeID Web site this spring with a vastly expanded product lineup, it was part of a small crowd.

There's Shop.vans.com, which offers 11 ways to modify the company's Old Skools -- not to mention eight ways to design their Slip-ons. Converse, which is owned by Nike, has recently jumped into the fray: The month-old ConverseOne.com allows customers to choose colors and patterns for the iconic Chuck Taylor lace-up basketball shoe, with 14 hues for the tongue alone. Its Jack Purcell shoe will be added to the site next month and the One Star this fall.

There's little question that sneakers are big business: U.S. sales topped $16.55 billion last year, a little less than half of the $38.45 billion spent on all footwear, according to market research firm NPD Group. For many people, every day is casual Friday. There's even the concept of the "sneaker wardrobe": a pair for each day of the week. Said Amanda Freeman, vice president of Youth Intelligence, a New York-based trend analysis firm, "It's easy to justify a sneaker collection."

U.S. sneaker sales rose a modest 4.3 percent in 2004, NPD Group says, and brands are struggling to distinguish themselves in a fiercely competitive market.

Customization may help with that, but it may not help the bottom line. Then again, that may not be the motivation.

"My guess is that they don't care" about turning a quick profit, said Marshal Cohen, chief industry analyst at NPD Group. "This is about connecting with the customer."

"It's more about being innovative, showing that you have an understanding of consumer needs," said Michael Wood, vice president of Teenage Research Unlimited, who thinks the customizable offerings may be "a loss leader."

It's also well-suited to the demographic all manufacturers, retailers and broadcasters hunger for: the young.

"This is a consumer who places a lot of value in being unique," said Wendy Farina, principal at Kurt Salmon Associates, a retail consulting firm.

This kind of selling certainly has all the right elements: It takes place on the Internet, where young people have found a second home, and teens and twentysomethings wear a lot of sneakers.

Although the sneaker companies decline to cite figures for online sales, making it hard to gauge them, the custom sites have a third, perhaps crucial, advantage: Customizing brand-name shoes lets shoppers behave in ways that are both creative and conformist, a duality that may particularly appeal to teens.

They're "trying to establish their individuality," said Wood, at the same time they're "trying very hard to fit in."

That's a balancing act that gives Alissa Quart, the author of "Branded: The Buying and Selling of Teenagers," pause. "It's yet another way of promoting false choice," she said. "It does encourage at least a small amount of creative thinking," but, she added, "it's a double-edged thing" -- because young buyers are trying to be unique by buying mass merchandise.

The sneaker sites also open up a wealth of market research possibilities. Thousands of shoppers logging their preferences on the minutiae of laces, tongues and soles amounts to a free focus group.

Industry watchers speculate that companies may plan to use the data supplied by these style-minded shoppers to help design their regular wares. "It's a great way to insert the consumer into the process of product development," Farina said.

NikeID has also focused on grass-roots advertising, targeting such hip folks as Kyle Gustafson, 31. Two months ago, the Alexandria, Va., resident was invited to participate in a design contest sponsored by the company. All 20 participants operated blogs, and though Gustafson did not win, he got free shoes that he wrote about on his site, Informationleafblower.com.

It's not all success stories in the custom department, though. Reflect.com, a Procter & Gamble site that sold customized makeup and other beauty products, shuttered its doors last month. And Levi's withdrew its custom-fit Original Spin jeans from stores two years ago.

Despite the negatives, online customization doesn't seem likely to disappear anytime soon. When it comes to predicting which products consumers will soon be able to personalize, many analysts say the sky's the limit.

Shoppers are now accustomed to calling the shots when it comes to cell phone ring tones and iPod playlists. Retailers such as Lands' End and Target offer customizable apparel for baby-boomer bodies, while such indie Web sites as Neighborhoodies.com offer customized apparel to a small but stylish audience. But these sneaker companies' efforts represent a bit of both worlds: cool, customizable gear and the mass market.

"Customization is going to be everywhere," Cohen said. "This is definitely one of those sneak peeks into the future."

Calling NIGO......

2005-07-18T08:13:00.000-07:00

Calling NIGO....can we get that jacket in a 2XL please?

CArrie Underwood gets a Skechers Contract? Why?

2005-07-17T11:25:00.000-07:00

"American Idol" winner Carrie Underwood is filling the shoes of Britney Spears and Christina Aguilera -- at least in an ad campaign. Underwood agreed to an endorsement deal with Skechers, a California sneaker maker that has also used Spears and Aguilera in its advertising. "It is such a hip company with a great attitude and image," said Underwood, whose first single, "Inside Your Heaven" debuted at No. 1 on four music charts.

Jessie Schmidt, Underwood's publicist, wouldn't say how much the deal will pay. The company said the deal gives it the right to advertise footwear using the 22-year-old singer's image through December 2006. Luke Sharpe, president of Sharpe Dry Goods, a store that sells Skechers, said Underwood will attract young shoppers. "They all want to be like Carrie," he said. "They just can't sing."

NIKE ID Style Lab Appointments

2005-07-16T05:11:00.000-07:00

If your in the NYC area go to NikeID.com and set up your appoint for the NikeID Lab. You get a 1on1 appointment with a sneaker consultant and they help you design your own shoe. The store has exclusive colors and patterns that you won't find online at www.nikeid.com. And coming Aug. 1 there will be new shoe designs. Nike is really taking personalization of sneakers to a whole new level.

Fatlace has some hot kicks on their site

2005-07-14T11:46:00.000-07:00

These Nike art sneakrs are really HOT! Yes I would wear them!

Five Three Foot Wear

2005-07-13T06:53:00.000-07:00

http://www.fivethreefootwear.com

These are Vans that are designed by hand by seth Baru. CHeck out the site for more info.

Tiger Beer Sneakers

2005-07-12T05:15:00.000-07:00

Carlo Gruber

2005-07-11T10:18:00.000-07:00

These are cute shoes...but are they for guys or girls?

Nike and Kobe reunite

2005-07-10T11:19:00.000-07:00

Nike is using photos of KobeBryant for the first time since his arrest two years ago for an alleged assault on a female employee at a Colorado resort."Nike agrees with most NBA observers that Kobe ranks among the very best players in the NBA, and his training and preparation are key elements of his game," Nike spokesman Rodney Knox said.

A look at pop culture is off and running with 'Sneakers'

2005-07-08T03:31:00.000-07:00

By SAMANTHA CRITCHELL THE ASSOCIATED PRESS
The perfect sneaker marries function and style, is culturally relevant but not trendy. Such as, for example, the Nike Presto. So says Chris Law, co-author of "Sneakers: The Complete Collectors' Guide" (Thames & Hudson, 256 pages, $29.95), and Adidas did a good job with its Climacool shoe, too.

"A lot of the sports brands are pushing trainers forward with technology but if they're so function-led, they can be ugly. We don't want companies to overlook fashion. You don't want new technology in a really ugly looking space," he says.The key is clean lines and not too much clutter, according to Law. Law is a sneaker authority, of sorts. He and some of his buddies in London run a Web site called Crooked Tongues (www.crookedtongues.com) that is devoted to sneakers. Not to mention that Law personally owns so many pairs of sneakers that he's lost track of how many are in his closet. "It's more than 200 and less than 300," he says with a laugh.

He says no pair ever gets too worn because he wears them on a rotation, and he's constantly adding new ones. His next paycheck is already spent on a pair of Vans. For Law, 33, the sneakers that define his generation are Puma Suedes and Adidas Superstars. (Coincidentally, Puma and Adidas were brands founded by brothers, Adolph and Rudolph Dassler.) For an older generation, the classic shoe is probably the Converse Chuck Taylor All Star, and for Gen Yers, the "must-have" sneakers of their youth were Nike Air Jordans.

Basketball shoes have been popular in the United States for decades -- hence the Chuck Taylor and the Adidas Jabbar, which when it came out in 1971 was the first to be endorsed by a basketball star (Kareem Abdul-Jabbar), but Britons typically favored serious running trainers. That all changed with the emergence of hip-hop in the 1990s, Law says.

Now 13-year-old boys pay attention to their footwear the way 30-year-old women pay attention to their handbags. "It's the age of hip-hop and that's changed the world of sneakers. It became part of your identity. How you wear them, how you lace them say something about you," Law says. "In England, if you see someone in a certain pair of trainers, you might know where they come from. Certain shoes you can look at and say, 'He's from the north of England and he's into football.' "
But David Maddocks, vice president of global marketing for Converse, makes the case that sneakers are among the most democratic icons, especially when it comes to wannabe sports stars.

"Sneakers have loyalty because you can't buy the same car that's driven in NASCAR, you can't join the country clubs where most pro golfers play, but you can wear the same shoes that the best athletes wear. That access is somewhat rare," Maddocks says.

Converse tinkers with the "Chuck" -- this year launching the Premiere All Star with a more tailored shape -- but makes it a point to never stray too far from the original because it's the pureness and simplicity that's made it a success for more than 80 years. "A 50-year-old stockbroker could be walking down the street and eye a 16-year-old punk rocker, and they'll both be wearing the same product. They accept each other as part of the same little group. It defies logic in many respects," Maddocks says.
Law says he and his co-authors tried to pick sneakers for the book that had pop culture references, fell into a particular genre, marked a change in technology or simply had stellar design. A few fad shoes, such as the Pony Linebacker, also made their way onto the pages.

The Linebacker is a shoe that's all but forgotten, he says, but in 1983, it was all the rage because American football just debuted on British television and everyone was buying the Linebacker in the color combination of their favorite football team. Pony also released a spinoff shoe called the Cricket, which featured leather trim instead of suede. But, Law adds, "It was a one-hit wonder." Tennis, aerobics -- especially in the 1980s -- and extreme sports, such as skateboarding, also have influenced sneaker design. Other sneakers that garnered mention in the book include Nike's Cortex, the sneaker that popularized Nike's trademark Swoosh in 1972 when it was made in white leather; Reebok's Freestyle from 1985, which came in high- and low-top versions, that was supposed to cater to the fitness world but became a commuter's best friend; Tretorn's Nylite, the first "luxury" sports shoe that was launched in 1965 but became a "must-have" of the '80s; and 1982's New Balance 030, dubbed "the ultimate kids' sneaker."

It's too new to be in the book, but Law has high hopes for the Adidas 1, which comes with a built-in microprocessor that's supposed to adapt the shoe's level of cushioning depending on the wearer's environment. "It's got an onboard computer and it's not bad looking

Sneakers fit nicely in the hearts and closets of fans

2005-07-06T06:34:00.000-07:00

Sneakers fit nicely in the hearts and closets of fans

By Samantha Critchell
The Associated Press

The perfect sneaker marries function and style, is culturally relevant but not trendy. One such shoe is the Nike Presto, according to Chris Law, co-author of "Sneakers: The Complete Collectors' Guide" (Thames & Hudson), and Adidas did a good job with its Climacool shoe, too.

"A lot of the sports brands are pushing trainers forward with technology but if they're so function-led, they can be ugly. We don't want companies to overlook fashion. You don't want new technology in a really ugly looking space," he says.

The key is clean lines and not too much clutter, according to Law.

Law is a sneaker authority, of sorts. He and some of his buddies in London run a Web site called Crooked Tongues that is devoted to sneakers. Not to mention that Law personally owns so many pairs of sneakers that he's lost track of exactly how many are in his closet. "It's more than 200 and less than 300," he says with a laugh.

No pair gets too worn

He says no pair ever gets too worn or dirty because he wears them on a rotation - and he's constantly adding new ones. His next paycheck is already spent on a pair of Vans.

For Law, 33, the sneakers that define his generation are Puma Suedes and Adidas Superstars. (Coincidentally, Puma and Adidas were brands founded by brothers, Adolph and Rudolph Dassler.) For an older generation, the classic shoe is probably the Converse Chuck Taylor All Star, and for Gen Yers, the "must-have" sneakers were Nike Air Jordans.

Basketball shoes have been popular in the United States for decades - hence the Chuck Taylor and the Adidas Jabbar, which when it came out in 1971 was the first to be endorsed by a basketball star (Kareem Abdul-Jabbar), but Britons typically favored serious running trainers. That all changed with the emergence of hip-hop in the 1990s, Law says.

Now 13-year-old boys pay attention to their footwear the way 30-year-old women pay attention to their handbags.

"It's the age of hip-hop and that's changed the world of sneakers. It became part of your identity. How you wear them, how you lace them say something about you," Law says. "In England, if you see someone in a certain pair of trainers, you might know where they come from. Certain shoes you can look at and say, 'He's from the north of England and he's into football.'"

But David Maddocks, vice president of global marketing for Converse, makes the case that sneakers are among the most democratic icons, especially when it comes to wannabe sports stars.

"Sneakers have loyalty because you can't buy the same car that's driven in NASCAR, you can't join the country clubs where most pro golfers play, but you can wear the same shoes that the best athletes wear. That access is somewhat rare," Maddocks says.

Converse tinkers with the "Chuck" - this year launching the Premiere All Star with a more tailored shape - but makes it a point to never stray too far from the original because it's the pureness and simplicity that's made it a success for more than 80 years.

"A 50-year-old stockbroker could be walking down the street and eye a 16-year-old punk rocker, and they'll both be wearing the same product. They accept each other as part of the same little group. It defies logic in many respects," Maddocks says.

Law says he and his co-authors tried to pick sneakers for the book that had pop culture references, fell into a particular genre, marked a change in technology or simply had stellar design. A few fad shoes, such as the Pony Linebacker, also made their way onto the pages.

It's too new to be in the book, but Law has high hopes for the Adidas 1, which comes with a built-in microprocessor that's supposed to adapt the shoe's level of cushioning depending on the wearer's environment. "It's got an on-board computer and it's not bad looking."

Krayzie Bone Dropping His Own Sneaker

2005-07-05T08:17:00.000-07:00

Bone Thugs-N-Harmony member Krayzie Bone is the newest Hip-Hop star to step into the tennis-shoe game with his new sneaker called the “Thugline Classics.”

Krayzie explained to Allhiphop.com that the initial response from the shoe has been great.

“I just saw the first sample of it the other day and it’s looking good," Krayzie Bone told AllHipHop.com. "They took polls of the anticipation of the shoes, and it’s been getting good scores.”

Scheduled to be released in August, the Cleveland native said that he’s excited for this new venture and will be hitting the road to promote it.

“I’ll be doing a promotional run in August, going around to all the shoe stores," Krayzie told AllHipHop.com.

Krayzie is the latest rapper to receive a shoe deal, joining Game, who will be releasing his “Hurricane” while 50 Cent and Jay-Z who both have had recent success with their Reebok campaigns.

According to Krayzie, with a little love, he’ll fit in just fine. “[My shoe is] up there with a lot of big names, so hopefully people pick it up when they get in the stores,” Krayzie said.

The “Thugline Classics” will be distributed through Authentic. For a sneak peek at the shoe, you can go to www.myauthentiks.com

More on The Game's Hurricane sneaker

2005-07-04T05:48:00.000-07:00

NEW YORK, NY Tuesday Jun.28.2005 /netmusiccountdown.com/ -- Last week, West Coast rapper the Game was in New York to introduce his new sneaker line.

The ex-G-UNIT member has partnered up with 310 Motoring to create a signature sneaker line "Hurricane by 310." The first shoe will be a street athletic sneaker, and it's expected to hit stores November 2005, in time for the holiday shopping season.

A line of Hurricane basketball shoes launches in 2006.

ODB Sneaker line?

2005-07-01T06:38:00.000-07:00

Damon Dash is at odds with the widow of Ol' Dirty Bastard (born Russell Jones) for his plans to launch a Pro-Keds sneaker line with the late rapper's initials on it.

Icelene Jones has threatened to sue Dash - whose Damon Dash Music Group is gearing up for the release of ODB's posthumous album, A Son Unique - if he attempts to continue with the sneaker line, according to The New York Daily News. "Damon Dash Music Group does not have the authority to distribute an ODB sneaker without the expressed consent of the estate of Russell Jones," attorney Steven J. Mandel told the Daily News. "The only person who has the power is Icelene Jones. ... We'll look into the possibility of getting an injunction." Meanwhile, Dash is also taking flak from former ODB manager Jarred Weisfeld, who wants Dash's name, voice and scenes in which he appears, removed from an upcoming ODB documentary. Dash's spokesperson, Darrin Chandler, had some choice words for Weisfeld after he emailed Chandler his request: "We will make sure his b!@*h a** is out of the special and for the record your [sic] a f--g clown."

Missy Rhythm Low

2005-06-24T05:24:00.000-07:00

Missy Elliott-driven footwear design based on classic adidas styles. Hooks up perfectly with ME apparel. A portion of sales proceeds from Missy's collection go to Break The Cycle, a non-profit organization for ending domestic violence.

Nike Holiday Sample

2005-06-23T08:50:00.000-07:00

Sneaker Art

2005-06-22T03:18:00.000-07:00

Art Force 1

Know you know you gotta see this french based site just for the GTA sneakers. OMFG they have some hot limiteds on this site. FIREEEEEEEEE

Avid collectors can't get enough of sneakers

2005-06-21T03:44:00.000-07:00

IF THE SHOES FIT
Avid collectors can't get enough of sneakers
By JOY SEWING
Copyright 2005 Houston Chronicle

When he ran out of space in one bedroom closet, Terrence Phillips began storing his sneakers in another one.

Then that one filled up.

Now, with more than 100 pairs of sneakers in his collection, Phillips shoves a box of sneakers in just about any space he can find.

Since he started collecting sneakers two years ago, he's spent nearly $6,000. He wears each at least once and stores them in their original boxes. His girlfriend thought it was a phase when he began collecting them, but she soon learned that sneakers are his thing.

"I have more shoes than she does," Phillips says, laughing. "I've always had a thing for sneakers. When I was a kid, I wanted them more than toys."

Phillips, 23, is a bona-fide sneakerhead, one of a growing group of sneaker collectors also called sneaker freakers. They can't get enough of their favorite shoes, whether the brands are Nike, Puma, adidas, Converse or others. They often make fashion statements with their sneakers in wild colors and styles, and they'll pay a mint for a limited-edition or vintage shoe.

Jennifer Ford, owner of Premium Goods in Rice Village, specializes in unique and hard-to-find sneakers. She credits Michael Jordan with starting the craze in the 1980s with Nike's Air Jordan shoe. (He was one of the first professional athletes to sign a multimillion-dollar endorsement deal with a sneaker company.) "Many of the collectors started with Air Jordans that they got as a kid. As they got older, they just got hooked," Ford says.

She knows this from experience. As children, Ford and her older sister fought over Air Jordans, equating sneakers with maternal love. "If my sister got a pair first, I thought my mom loved her more, so I'd cry until I got my own."

Ford continued to covet sneakers as a student at Emory University in Atlanta. With an economics degree, she moved to New York to work as a buyer for Lord & Taylor. There, she learned the ins and outs of retail and connected with a friend who launched Premium Goods New York in Brooklyn.

When Ford returned to Houston last fall to be near family, she opened the store's second location.

Ford says about 75 percent of her customers are collectors such as Phillips. Some don't even wear the shoes they buy; others like to make a fashion statement. Collectible sneakers usually come in unique color combinations, and sneakerheads have the style to pull off the wild colors, Ford says.

Phillips wears his sneakers to work at a local retailer. His favorites are a pair of tan and pink Nike Air Force I sneakers that he bought last fall. "I like different, wild colors; something you don't see on everyone else," he says.

Sneakers have been a fashion icon for nearly a century. The first rubber-soled shoes, invented in the early 1900s, were called "sneakers" because their rubber soles made little noises on the floor. The sneaker of all sneakers — Converse's Chuck Taylor, released in 1917 — made a fashionable comeback this spring in several colors. According to Sneakers, The Complete Collector's Guide (Thames & Hudson, $29.95), it's the best-selling sports shoe of all time.

Actor Sean Penn made Vans slip-ons popular with the movie Fast Times at Ridgemont High in 1981. When the rap group Run DMC struck a hit with My adidas in the 1980s, sneakers became part of the look for the hip-hop generation. Today, talk-show host Ellen DeGeneres is known for the variety of sneakers she wears.

Barney Waters, vice president of marketing for Puma North America, says there is more of a demand today than ever before for sneakers as casual wear.

The Puma Clyde or Suede style, released in 1968 as a basketball shoe, is popular with sneakerheads.

"They want something that will turn heads. That might be a vintage shoe that you can only find covered in cobwebs in a dusty storeroom or a modern limited-edition release," Waters says.

Since Premium Goods opened late last year, Phillips has purchased about eight pairs. He's bought his other sneakers from Internet sites and stores in New York and Los Angeles.

Phillips now has his eyes on the Air Force II Espos, valued at $600-$700, but he'll pay $500, tops.

"I have my limits," he says.

I REALLY WANT THESE KICKS!

2005-06-19T16:54:00.000-07:00

Mens 142nd Patent Leather Perforated
Style: PK-RM1102_201
Price:
U.S. $80.00
Description:
Limited edition 142nd ProKed features a high-rise back with a foam padded collar and tongue and a super-soft removable comfort insole to help prevent foot fatigue on court. Scientifically formulated molded polyurethane outsole for extra traction.

Jim Jones on sneakers...

2005-06-17T12:20:00.000-07:00

"We just finished doing a clothing and sneaker deal, but we ain't gonna disclose no names," Jim said. "But we have a sneaker corporation, like Nike or Reebok, where we'll be able to sponsor musicians and athletes. The first line of sneakers is called Uptowns."

The truth about white sneakers

2005-06-16T04:34:00.000-07:00

Many people like white sneakers because they say it gives off a clean look. Well that often something coming from the mouth of someone with little feet. However when you wear a size 15 a white shoe can often times be mistaken for an on coming rocket, a space alien, or a mini boat. In other words white sneakers suck. So yesterday everyone at work got free sneakers. So I'm like dope cause my ass is broke and I really need a fresh pair. So of course there is only 1 large size shoe and it's 14. I can wear a 14 but only if I don't wear socks. So I open the box and bam it's fuckin white shoe. I roll my eyes to the back of my head. So now I'm lookin to have to shoe painted. So if you are in the NYC area and have some skills then hit a brother up. I'll display the shoes on here once I have them redone.

STOP BIG FEET DISCRIMINATION!

http://www.soleseek.co.uk/

2005-06-15T12:11:00.000-07:00

Soul Seek check out this hot website that seeks out hard to find and dead stock sneakers.

SNEAKER CONTEST: Design a pair of shoes for the Pistons

2005-06-14T07:02:00.000-07:00

The Pistons need a new pair of shoes ... a blank sneaker outline is provided at www.freep.com. Trick it out in any way you like for the defending champs.

Entries will featured in the Free Press, and the top three designs will get $150 each for new shoes.

Put "Kicks Contest" in the subject field and E-mail to features@freepress.com or mail to the Detroit Free Press, Kicks Contest, 600 W. Fort, Detroit 48226. Include name, address, day and evening phone numbers, and a photo of the designer. They must be received by 6 p.m. June 14.

JB Classics

2005-06-09T07:58:00.000-07:00

These sneakers at really HOT! However no large sizes.

MAKE LARGE SIZES!!!!!!!!!!!!

142nd ProKed

2005-06-08T06:04:00.000-07:00

142nd ProKed
Style: PK-RM1102_609
Price:
U.S. $80.00
Description:
Color your world! Limited edition 142nd ProKed features a high-rise back with a foam padded collar and tongue and a super-soft removable comfort insole to help prevent foot fatigue on court. Scientifically formulated molded polyurethane outsole for extra traction.

Are Bape's played out?

2005-06-07T02:01:00.000-07:00

What use to be the hottest and hardest shoe to capture in the hunt has now been reduced to a regular old shoe. What was once an impossible to find sneaker has now be mass produced and cloned and available for $80. Bape use to be the shit but now sense the store opened up in Manhatten it's just another sneaker store. The color ways are still cute but you can get that on a nice Dunk. WE miss the exclusivtivity of Bape sneakers. Being not about to get a pair was what made them so hot and sexy. Even though Bape pratices big feet descrminiation, we will love the sneakers. Our suggest is to bring back the feel of the old Bape. Make i exclusive and hard to get again.

Rapper Xzibit and Dada join forces.

2005-06-06T14:43:00.000-07:00

Rapper Xzibit has announced plans to launch his own shoe line with athletic footwear manufacturer Dada, for a two-year endorsement.

Commonly known on the hip-hop scene, the rapper has been gracing the small and big screens, as host of the MTV series Pimp My Ride. He’s also appeared in blockbuster hits “XXX State of the Union,” and “8 Mile” and now wants to try his hand at shoe design.

“Dada has always been competitive and respected and I'm excited to design and promote a shoe that represents both of us so well.” Xzibit said in a statement.

Dada CEO Lavetta Wells adds, ““Xzibit defines pop culture and his success in crossing various markets makes him the ultimate representative of the Dada brand.”

Tennis Hi | OKI-NI / ADIDA

2005-06-06T03:54:00.000-07:00

http://www.oki-ni.com
oki-ni & Adidas have redeveloped the Tennis Hi, first introduced in 1974 the tennis hi was one of the first ever high cut tennis shoes to grace the courts with superior ankle support. The upper is produced in dual layers of nylon webbing over a lemon peel weave. Its completed with full-grain leather overlays in optical white to provide extra stability. The shoe features dual branding of oki-ni/Adidas on the in-sole and tongue. Available in this one colourway the Tennis Hi is extremely limited with only 300 pairs being produced exclusively for oki-ni.

Cre8tive Recreation

2005-06-04T01:57:00.000-07:00

Oh how beautiful these shoes are. Cre8tive Recreation has some of the best designs out there. Their shoes mix between sneakers and uber designer footwear.

HOWEVER! There are no sizes over 13. I have sense written to the company with money in hand read to pay and they have no intention on making bigger sizes.

BOoooooooooooooooooooooooo!

STOP BIG FEED DISCRIMINATION!

My Letter to Pro Keds

2005-06-03T03:55:00.000-07:00

Dear Pro Keds,

I am a loyal customer until recently. Pro Keds sizing options have gone down. I wear a size 15 and have that Pro Keds always had something for me to wear. But ever sense the company ownership changed hands it seems that you have disregarded the market for guys with larger feet. This is unfair! We want stylish shoes to wear that don't look like they came from K-Mart. I love the limited edition and the state property Pro Keds but when I go to my local Dr. Jays they don't carry my size. PLEASE make sizes so that all your fans can enjoy. I love to seem a limited edition run of the shoe sizes 13-15. Just so that once the small footed people can know what it's like.

Just in Time for PR Pride Day

2005-06-03T03:44:00.000-07:00

This Limited Edition NORE Cool Out w/ Puerto Rican Flag sneaker is the hottest thing out and wont be available for long! You can sport these fly kicks on the street or wear them to The National Puerto Rican Day Parade. Either way its your call, so show your true heritage and grab this sneaker before its gone forever. Features high-rise back with a foam padded collar and tongue and a super-soft removable comfort insole to help prevent foot fatigue. Scientifically formulated molded polyurethane outsole for extra traction. Also features NORE loop logo tag on side and PRO-KEDS embroidered logo on back.

HOWEVER! This shoe doesn't come in a big size. It can only be found in sizes 8-10.
WHAT THE FUCk!

STOP BIG FEET DISCRIMINATION!

The Games to release his own sneaker.

2005-06-02T05:06:00.000-07:00

Hip-Hop artist The Game is flexing his entrepreneurial spirits and intends to release a line of sneakers dubbed The Hurricanes.

The name comes from a moniker he often used, "Hurricane Game.”

While Game declined to disclose who the sneakers would be distributed by for business reasons, he did state that the line would include canvas and leather sneakers.

"They are dropping around Christmas," Game revealed to AllHipHop.com. "I'm comin' with some new designs."

The Game said he’ll strive for originally with the Hurricane sneaker.

“N***s won't be like, ‘Aw, them is fake Air Force One's.’ I like my s**t to be legit, and I ain't gonna make it unless I know I f**k with it. Like, if a n***a put out some knock-off sneakers, I'm gonna be like, ‘Nah, them knock-off Air One's.’ And you’re [going to be like] I'm gonna [buy] my motherf***in' Nikes!

The sneakers are a part of Game's broader plan to enter into the urban clothing business in the same manner as fellow Aftermath artists Eminem, who has Shady Clothing and 50 Cent, who has the G-Unit collection.

"I'm deciding on a name right now," Game said, comparing the new line to Sean "P. Diddy" Combs' popular Sean John clothing line.

Competitive by nature, Game said he expects his sneaker line to compete with some of the more established brands, as well as more recently launched lines.

"I aint taking nothing away from [anyone else], but the Hurricanes is about to lock it up. Watch."

- reposted from Allhiphop.com

Limited Edition Common Sneaker to celebrate new album "Be"

2005-06-01T04:14:00.000-07:00

With Kanye West by his side, an eye catching billboard in Time Square (New York), and a limited edition sneaker, Common releases his highly anticipated album "Be".
Already slated a classic hip-hop album and selling like hot cakes. To celebrate the launch of the album TheRedLemonStore.com sold 100 pairs of Nike sneakers designed by Common and celebrity shoe designers Krispy Klean. Check out the sneakers and buy the album it's a must have.

www.theredlemonstore.com

NIKE ID

2005-05-31T14:25:00.000-07:00

Nike ID has upgraded itself and claims to have size 14 and 15 sneakers. This is a step int he right direction for Nike because big footed people like myself want fashionable footware. So check out Nike ID and make yourself a pair. We are going to order a pair soon. www.nikeid.com

Help me find big shoes?

2005-05-31T14:15:00.000-07:00

Do yo u know of any good places that carry big shoes in the NYC area? Looking for size 15. Please Help!

10 Hot Places to find sneakers in NYC

2005-05-31T14:14:00.000-07:00

1. Premium Good's
694 Fulton St (Btw. Ft. Green Pl & S. Elliot),
718.403.9348
Train: A or C to Layffette
Hours: 10am-7pm
Looking for Bathing Ape? They have em! Plus a whole slew of sneakers many people have never seen in the US.

2. Alife Rivington Club
158 Rivington St Cross Street: Between Clinton Street and Suffolk Street
212.375.8128
Train: F to Second Ave
Hours: Tues-Sun. 12pm-7pm
This down-low sneaker spot have some SERIOUS kicks that will make you shell out that $300.

3. Adidas Orginals
136 Wooster St
212.777.2001
Train: N or R to Prince St.
Hours: 10am-7pm
My Adidas! Your Adidas! Who does't like Adidas!

4. Training Camp
41 and 6th AVe
Train: D Train to 42nd.
Hours: 10am-7pm
A large selections of sneakers and large sizes.

5. B-Jay's USA
145th and Broadway, plus other locations in the Bronx.
Train: 1 or 9 to 145th St.
Hours: 10am-7pm
Affordable kicks that don't look like they where brought at K-Mart.

6. NikeTown
6 East 57th St. NY
212.891.6453
www.niketown.com
Train: N or R to 57th
Hours: 10am-7pm
The mothership for all that is NIKE!

7. VIM
16 West 14th St.
http://www.vim.com/LOCATE.htm
Train: Check the website for locations.
There are tons of them in and around the city. Hours: 10am-7pm
They always have a dope deal on a fresh pair of kicks. Make sure you check them out on ya next sneakr shopping trip.

8. KCDC
99 North 10th Street
718.387.9006
kcdcskateshop.com
break out ya skate board and skate your troubles away. otherwise pick up a nice pairk of sneakers here.

9. Dave's Quality Meats
7 East 3rd off the Bowery
212.505.7551
Train: F to Bowery
Hours: 10am-7pm
You won't find salamey here but a dope selections of sneakers and t-shirts.

10. Nort 235
235 Eldridge Street
212.777.6102
Train: Locations throughout Manhattan
Hours: 10am-7pm
if your looking for sneakers that you won't see alot of people wearing then visit this spot.

Check out Kicksclusive Magazine

2005-05-31T06:13:00.000-07:00

IF your looking for new info on the latest pair of kicks, the latest fashion trends, or the hottest video games then check out Kicksclusive Magazine. It's a funky fresh mag. that will have you lusting for more and more sneakers.

2 New Sneaker stores open up

2005-05-05T05:48:00.000-07:00

Atmos
215.869.4614
203 West 125th Street
NY , NY 10027
www.atmosnyc.com

This store is so sexy that you'd think you where looking at a centerfold featuring Anna Kournikova. But what you will find is a nice selection of hard to find sneakers.

FLIGHT CLUB
254 Greene Street
Sneaker stores are slowly taking over Soho. This new spot feature the latest and the greatest in sneaker. Mmmm...it's all about that new sneaker smell.

The Blog for people with Big Feet!

2005-04-20T06:15:00.000-07:00

Ok so fuck all you small footed, I can shop at any store mofo's. Yeah I'm hating on you. Bape's don't come in my size. But anyway this is my story. Yes I'm a shoe lover and want almost ever pair I see in the stores. However it's hard to find my size in NYC. Everyone out here is 5'8 and wears a size 9. So this Blog is all about places to find big shoes and deals. This of it as a heaven for sizes 13 and up! Holla