Sneaker collecting is the real deal. In recent years, sneaker collecting has become a multibillion-dollar industry. And not just in the US, but around the globe.
If you're into pop culture, then you likely have at least one wall in your closet dedicated to your sneaker collection. If you're really into it, you'll have an entire room full.
But if you're just getting started, and looking to buy sneakers to build the foundation of your collection, then there are a few basic pairs you should buy.
These are the classics in every collection, whether they are intended to sit on the wall or to be worn on a regular basis.
Keep reading below to learn about the best sneakers for new collectors, and how you can jumpstart your collection today.
- Vans
It's hard to pick a shoe with more history, virality, and timelessness than the sneaker put out by Vans. The classic California skate and surf brand has provided shoes for every type of person and has helped inspire many other shoe brands.
It's near impossible to pick just one type of shoe to recommend. But if you're serious about sneaker collecting, it's hard to go wrong with the Sk8 Hi classic sneakers from Vans.
These are the high-top version of the classic Vans skate shoes. A vulcanized rubber sole, canvas upper, and simple, yet iconic branding make these a must-have for anyone who loves their footwear.
They're always available in a wide range of colors. Most people will at least have black or white. It's also a good idea to pick up a brighter color, for those days when you need to spice things up.
A close second would be the Old Skool sneakers. These are only ankle-high sneakers, with the same iconic SoCal look and feel. They have the classic side stripe down the sides and deserve a place in your sneaker closet.
- Converse All-Stars
Looking for another shoe with a long history, and a bright future ahead? Converse sneakers have been worn for about a hundred years, from basketball stars in the days of old, to the most famous pop stars of the modern age.
The silhouette of the All-Stars has changed very little in the last century, keeping the aesthetic cool and timeless. But the feel and function continue to receive updates, to ensure your feet are as comfortable as ever, whether you are hitting the court, the office, the concert, or the club.
Icons of old, such as James Dean, Andy Warhol, and Kurt Cobain have helped keep the trend of Converse alive. The shoes have been featured in countless movies and TV shows, from Back to the Future, Waynes World, and even today's "The Big Bang Theory."
While your pair of Chuck Taylor's may never be worth millions, like other collectible sneakers, no other shoe has the legacy and heritage that this shoe has. The design is still trending, and you'll find yourself lacing these up more often than not.
- Yeezy Running Sneakers
Yeezy sneakers are some of the most sought-after shoes of the current day, thanks to the partnership with Adidas and Kanye West (now known as Ye).
The first Yeezy shoe was released back in 2015, known as the Boost. Kanye West had been designing shoes for years before this, but the Adidas partnership really allowed for Ye to have full creative control over the shoes he put out.
Today, you can buy Yeezy running shoes such as the Boost 350 and the Boost 700. There are many limited edition designs and color ways that may garner high resell value in the future.
And while you're shopping for a pair of running shoes, you should also pick up a pair of Yeezy's ultra-modern slippers or slides.
- Nike Air Jordan
The Nike Air Jordan’s have a long history, starting back in the 80s when Michael Jordan was ruling the court. But unlike other classic shoe brands, continues to innovate and design new, modern shoes as well.
First released in 1984, exclusively for the basketball player, they were released to the public a year later. Over the years, the shoes went through countless innovations, with the design changing significantly from year to year.
Today, the shoes are commonly seen on basketball courts across the country, a well as on stage during concerts, and even speeches from noteworthy figures. The brand has become the sponsor of numerous sports teams in the US, and even Paris Saint Germaine, one of the top soccer clubs in the world.
Air Jordan regularly partners with street wear companies to produce limited edition, collectible sneakers for the fashion world. Today, you can still purchase the classic Air Jordan 1, or plenty of newer styles from the Jordan brand. And if you really want to elevate your sneaker game, don't forget to complete the look with matching shirts with Jordan 1 designs.
- Custom NFT Sneakers
The metaverse is real, and the fashion industry is jumping in with both feet. Powered by NFTs, which are unique, digital collectibles, you can get custom sneakers to wear and show off in the digital world, which is just valuable, if not more valuable, than physical sneakers.
Try Custom My Sneaker offers various footwears, do check them online.
But NFT sneakers aren't limited to the metaverse. Those who purchase well-known NFTs, like those from Bored Ape Yacht Club, have rights over their NFT and can do what they want with them.
Many people are putting them on clothing, and yes, sneakers. NBA player Tyrese Halliburton, of the Sacramento Kings, wore custom sneakers, featuring his BAYC NFT (#8409) during an NBA game. Oh, and he had one of the best games of the season while wearing them.
With the rise in popularity of NFTs, and the growing number of celebrities, influencers, and professional athletes collecting them, we can expect to see much more of this in the coming years. If you want something unique and valuable, consider doing something similar.
Filling Your Sneaker Collection
There are many different pairs you can add to your sneaker collection. Some should never be worn, as they are true collector's items. But the bulk of your collection should be sneakers you'll actually put on and walk out the door with.
In either case, picking up new sneakers is fun. Start out with the items listed above, and then start branching out into some of the more niche items on the market today.
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