Collection: Sneakers
The history of the sneaker traces back to the early 19th century when the Industrial Revolution was transforming the world. During this period, the production of footwear shifted from traditional, handmade shoes to mass production in factories. One of the significant milestones in the evolution of sneakers was the invention of the rubber sole.
In 1839, Charles Goodyear developed the vulcanization process, which involved treating rubber with heat and sulfur to improve its durability. This breakthrough led to the creation of rubber-soled shoes, known as plimsolls, which were primarily used for sports and recreational activities. Plimsolls gained popularity in the late 19th century, particularly among tennis and croquet players.
The term "sneaker" emerged in the 1880s, as the rubber sole made these shoes virtually noiseless compared to traditional leather-soled footwear. The name "sneaker" derived from the fact that people could walk silently, or "sneak," without making a sound.
In the early 20th century, several iconic brands began manufacturing sneakers. In 1917, the Converse Rubber Shoe Company introduced the All-Star basketball shoe, which later became the famous Chuck Taylor All Star. These canvas sneakers gained immense popularity among basketball players and became a fashion statement in their own right.
In the 1970s, another pivotal moment in sneaker history occurred with the emergence of Nike. Founded by Bill Bowerman and Phil Knight, Nike revolutionized the sneaker industry by introducing innovative designs and technologies. The release of the Nike Air Max in 1987, featuring a visible air cushioning unit, marked a significant advancement in sneaker comfort and performance.
Throughout the late 20th century and into the 21st century, sneakers evolved beyond their athletic origins and became a prominent fashion accessory. The rise of hip-hop culture and sneaker collaborations with celebrities and designers further propelled their popularity. Sneaker collecting and reselling became a lucrative market, with limited edition releases often selling out within minutes.
Today, sneakers have become a global phenomenon, transcending gender, age, and social boundaries. They continue to evolve in terms of design, technology, and cultural significance. From athletic performance to street style, sneakers have left an indelible mark on fashion and society, representing the intersection of comfort, functionality, and self-expression.
In 1839, Charles Goodyear developed the vulcanization process, which involved treating rubber with heat and sulfur to improve its durability. This breakthrough led to the creation of rubber-soled shoes, known as plimsolls, which were primarily used for sports and recreational activities. Plimsolls gained popularity in the late 19th century, particularly among tennis and croquet players.
The term "sneaker" emerged in the 1880s, as the rubber sole made these shoes virtually noiseless compared to traditional leather-soled footwear. The name "sneaker" derived from the fact that people could walk silently, or "sneak," without making a sound.
In the early 20th century, several iconic brands began manufacturing sneakers. In 1917, the Converse Rubber Shoe Company introduced the All-Star basketball shoe, which later became the famous Chuck Taylor All Star. These canvas sneakers gained immense popularity among basketball players and became a fashion statement in their own right.
In the 1970s, another pivotal moment in sneaker history occurred with the emergence of Nike. Founded by Bill Bowerman and Phil Knight, Nike revolutionized the sneaker industry by introducing innovative designs and technologies. The release of the Nike Air Max in 1987, featuring a visible air cushioning unit, marked a significant advancement in sneaker comfort and performance.
Throughout the late 20th century and into the 21st century, sneakers evolved beyond their athletic origins and became a prominent fashion accessory. The rise of hip-hop culture and sneaker collaborations with celebrities and designers further propelled their popularity. Sneaker collecting and reselling became a lucrative market, with limited edition releases often selling out within minutes.
Today, sneakers have become a global phenomenon, transcending gender, age, and social boundaries. They continue to evolve in terms of design, technology, and cultural significance. From athletic performance to street style, sneakers have left an indelible mark on fashion and society, representing the intersection of comfort, functionality, and self-expression.
-
Adidas LG II SPZL Liam Gallagher Bottle Green IF8358
Regular price £189.99 GBPRegular priceUnit price / per -
Nike Air Jordan 4 Retro Craft Photon Dust DV3742 021
Regular price £279.99 GBPRegular priceUnit price / per -
Nike Air Jordan 1 Low Ashen Slate 553558 414
Regular price £249.99 GBPRegular priceUnit price / per -
Nike Dunk Low SB Crenshaw Skate Club FN4193 100
Regular price £449.99 GBPRegular priceUnit price / per -
Adidas Yeezy Foam Runner Carbon IG5349
Regular price £139.99 GBPRegular priceUnit price / per -
Adidas Yeezy Slide Slate Marine ID2349
Regular price £99.99 GBPRegular priceUnit price / per -
Adidas Yeezy Boost 350 V2 Carbon Beluga HQ7045
Regular price £279.99 GBPRegular priceUnit price / per -
Adidas Yeezy Slide Bone FZ5897
Regular price £139.99 GBPRegular priceUnit price / per -
Nike Air Force 1 Mid Off White Black DO6290 001
Regular price £279.99 GBPRegular priceUnit price / per -
Nike Air Jordan 5 Retro Off White Sail DH8565 100
Regular price £749.99 GBPRegular priceUnit price / per -
Nike Air Jordan 11 Retro High GS Cherry 378038 116
Regular price £199.99 GBPRegular priceUnit price / per -
Nike Air Jordan 11 Retro High Cherry CT8012 116
Regular price From £199.99 GBPRegular priceUnit price / per -
Adidas Yeezy Boost 350 V2 Zebra CP9654
Regular price £299.99 GBPRegular priceUnit price / per -
Adidas Yeezy Foam Runner Stone Salt GV6840
Regular price £139.99 GBPRegular priceUnit price / per -
Nike Dunk Low W Photon Dust DD1503 103
Regular price £169.99 GBPRegular priceUnit price / per -
Adidas Yeezy Slide Onyx HQ6448
Regular price £139.99 GBPRegular priceUnit price / per -
Nike Air Jordan 1 High OG Spider-Man Across the Spider-Verse GS DV1753 601
Regular price £179.99 GBPRegular priceUnit price / per -
Adidas Yeezy Boost 350 V2 Onyx GX3606
Regular price £279.99 GBPRegular priceUnit price / per -
Nike Air Max 95 SP Corteiz Gutta Green FB2709 300
Regular price From £299.99 GBPRegular priceUnit price / per -
Nike Air Max 95 SP Corteiz Aegean Storm
Regular price From £399.99 GBPRegular priceUnit price / per -
Nike Air Jordan 1 Retro Low OG SP Travis Scott Olive DZ4137 106
Regular price £549.99 GBPRegular priceUnit price / per -
Balenciaga Triple S Grey 483513W06E11259
Regular price £749.99 GBPRegular priceUnit price / per -
Nike Dunk Low Retro Gorge Green DD1503 300
Regular price £129.99 GBPRegular priceUnit price / perSold out -
Sold out
Nike Dunk Low Celtics FM3612 300
Regular price £139.99 GBPRegular priceUnit price / perSold out