Early Sneaker Origins
Sneakers began as rubber-soled shoes called 'plimsolls' in the 19th century. They were revolutionary for being quiet, a contrast to the noise of hard-soled shoes, earning the nickname 'sneakers' because wearers could 'sneak' around.
Converse: Basketball Beginnings
In 1917, the Converse All-Star was born, designed specifically for basketball. It became iconic when Chuck Taylor, a basketball player, endorsed them in 1923, leading to the nickname 'Chuck Taylors'.
Sneaker Subcultures Emerge
The 1970s saw the birth of sneaker subcultures with the rise of hip hop in New York and the burgeoning skate culture. Sneakers became symbols of street style and identity.
Air Jordans Revolution
The release of Air Jordans in 1985 changed everything. Designed for Michael Jordan, they became a cultural phenomenon, intertwining basketball performance with street fashion and collectability.
Sneakerheads & Collectors
The term 'sneakerhead' emerged in the late '80s and '90s, denoting someone passionate about collecting and trading limited-edition sneakers, often waiting in line for hours for releases.
Sneakers Go Digital
With the advent of the internet, sneaker culture exploded globally. Online forums, blogs, and marketplaces enabled collectors to connect, trade, and discuss sneakers across continents.
Luxury Brands Join In
The 2000s saw luxury fashion houses like Gucci and Louis Vuitton enter the sneaker market, blending high fashion with streetwear, and propelling sneaker culture into the mainstream luxury sector.
What were early sneakers called?
Converse All-Stars
Plimsolls
Chuck Taylors
Company
