NFL
By: Courtney Walsh
Sneaker culture isn’t just about shoes; it’s a movement, a vibe, and for many, a way of life. From the fire looks of a fresh pair of J’s to the exclusive drops that have us all refreshing our screens, sneakers have transcended their original purpose and become iconic symbols of self-expression, status, and style. So why are we so obsessed? Because of the stories each pair tells. They connect us to our favorite athletes, artists, and even moments in history. And there are all types of sneakerheads, collectors, casual enthusiasts, or someone chasing the latest collab, sneaker culture speaks a language of passion, creativity, and community. Let’s dive into why they have such a tight grip on our hearts (and wallets).
For myself, it’s about the look; a clean pair of just-right sneakers can set off that perfect outfit. But I quickly found out I do NOT make the money I need to make to be a true sneakerhead, so I jump in when I can, look for sales and deals. Don’t get me wrong, you can still scoop up some really dope kicks and not be in the league. Just need to work for it a bit. Here at Team NBS Media, we have a few real sneaker heads, so I chatted with them about it. When most of us think about fashion, one of the first places that comes to mind is New York, so that is where I went. Mark Wilson is a writer for NBS but also has his own clothing brand. You can find his stuff at Rich Kid
So, my questions were the following:
Why are sneakers a passion of yours?
Mark Wilson: Sneaks are a passion of mine because I like to look fresh when I’m out. A good pair of kicks can set off any outfit. Hell, you can get married in a classic pair of All White Air Force 1’s.
First pair of sneakers you remember loving.
MW: Sneaks can boost the confidence in a person, and truth be told, your feet may be the first thing a person looks at when they see you.
What pair do you want to add to your collection and why?
MW: The First pair of kicks I fell in love with were Shell Toe Adidas. I grew up a fan of Run DMC, and that was the style back then. Either no laces or some black and white ones. A crisp pair of Lee Jeans to go with some Shell Toes, we were killing the fashion game in the 80s.
A pair you would love to add to your collection.
MW: A pair I want to add to my collection, hmmm, that’s a hard one. I own over 200 pairs of shoes. Now that I think about it, I want a pair of old school Lottos. They kind of where I could switch out the Lotto logo on the side. I grew up with them and would love to have another pair just to add to the collection. Nostalgia.
No good journalist just gets one side of things, so I wanted to speak to a sneakerhead from another fashion-focused city. He is also the host of our newest show, coming soon, that’s all about sneakers and sneaker culture. The host of “Laced Up and Dripped Out” Dan Goodwin.
Why are sneakers a passion for you?
Dan Goodwin: Sneakers have been a passion of mine since as long as I can remember. I grew up playing sports, so of course I wanted to look fly playing football or basketball. Being from Chicago, I had a front row seat to the GOAT and the birth of the Jordan brand. Other ball players like Penny Hardaway, Deion Sanders, and hip-hop stars like Run DMC, Kanye West, and so many others helped fuel that passion for rocking dope gym shoes.
First Pair of sneakers you remember loving.
DG: Nike Air Jordan 3 (Playoffs) colorway. The elephant print, the Jumpman logo, and the colorway were sick. I loved them shoes and still do to this day. 2nd favorite shoe of all time.
A pair you would love to add to your collection.
DW: I have over 320 pairs of sneakers. But like everybody else, I have missed a few drops. Most I can get over, but one I haven’t been able to get over is the Jordan Retro 4 Reimagined. The playoff black, cement, and red colorway in leather was sick. I won’t be able to hold off much longer, gotta get them!
Why should people watch this new show you are cooking up?
DG: Sneakers, sports, & music have been a staple in the lives of many for decades now. Everybody has their favorite, their style, their way of lacing them up, and they all have a story behind their favorite kicks. So, I wanted to bring a show dedicated to the culture & focused on the stories behind those that call themselves #Sneakerheads
I want to thank Mark and Dan for sharing their favorites as well as the why behind the passion. Oh, I didn’t share which pair I would love to own, Nike Air Foamposite One Galaxy 2025. If anyone has $600 lying around, hit me up. Make sure to hit the subscribe button on our YouTube channel and look out for Dan’s new show. What about you? Share your favorite. #NoScuffs
