Posted by: | Articles Comments Off on The Sneaker Graveyard: Unearthing the Most Slept-On Kicks
The Sneaker Graveyard: Unearthing the Most Slept-On Kicks
Beyond the Hype: Unsung Heroes of the Sneaker World
In the ever-evolving world of sneaker culture, trends come and go, leaving a trail of forgotten gems and unfairly maligned designs. While some models achieve legendary status, others, despite their unique appeal or historical significance, fall into the category of ‘slept-on’ kicks. But what truly makes a sneaker underrated, and why do some perfectly good shoes get so much undeserved hate?
Jordans That Deserve More Love
When it comes to Jordans, the spotlight often shines brightest on the early models, particularly 1 through 14. However, true connoisseurs argue that many later models offer just as much style and substance. Jordans from the 15th through the 24th iterations, for instance, are frequently overlooked. Similarly, models like the Jordan 35 and 37, while perhaps not as iconic, are considered solid choices by those who appreciate their design and performance.
The Hybrid Haters: The Curious Case of the Six Rings and Spizikes
Perhaps no category of Jordans generates as much debate and disdain as the hybrids. Shoes like the Jordan Six Rings, Dub Zeros, and Spizikes often bear the brunt of criticism, sometimes derisively labeled as ‘Mexican Jordans’ by a younger crowd unfamiliar with their origins. This dismissive attitude ignores the clever concept behind these designs.
The Six Rings and Dub Zeros, for example, are a testament to Michael Jordan’s unparalleled career, combining design elements from the six different shoes he wore during his championship seasons. Similarly, the Spizikes blend iconic features from various Jordan models. When these hybrids first dropped, they were far from ‘slept-on.’ The Six Rings, in particular, were exclusive, highly sought after, and even famously worn by Nelly in his ‘Steppin’ on My J’z’ music video. They sold out consistently.
The shift in perception highlights a common trend: as sneaker culture evolves, historical context can be lost, and newer generations may judge shoes solely on current aesthetics rather than their narrative or initial impact.
Beyond the Jumpman: Other Unexpected Footwear Gems
The conversation around underrated sneakers isn’t limited to Jordans. Consider the Avias, a brand that exemplifies how perception can change. Once a staple, then perhaps a forgotten name, these comfortable, affordable shoes (often found at Walmart for around $25) are making a quiet comeback, proving that quality and comfort can trump brand snobbery.
Going further back in history, brands that were once mainstream powerhouses are now niche favorites. Shoes worn by basketball legends like Dominique Wilkins in the 80s, often similar to styles from New Balance or ASICS, were readily available in places like Foot Locker. These were performance shoes that were also culturally relevant, a testament to a different era of sneaker consumption.
The Ever-Changing Definition of ‘Dope’
Ultimately, what constitutes a ‘slept-on’ or ‘dope’ sneaker is deeply personal and subjective. While some shoes are genuinely overlooked, others face unwarranted criticism due to a lack of historical understanding or simply because they don’t fit current trends. The true sneakerhead, however, knows that beauty (and value) can be found in unexpected places, often far from the madding crowd of hype releases.
Disclaimer: The info in this article may or may not be true. This was taken from a conversation from The Grind It Up Podcast and should not be used as your reliable news source but rather entertainment.
This info can be found in this episode of The Grind It Up Podcast
Listen on your favorite platform:
No Comments