Each year, over 23 billion pairs of shoes are made. Sneakers make up a large portion of these shoes, with sneaker culture now a global phenomenon.
Sneakers are no longer just a symbol of athleticism. Instead, they’ve transcended their original function to become fashionable objects of desire. It’s no wonder that the number of sneakerheads has increased significantly, with 31 percent of US male teens and 22 percent of their female counterparts considering themselves sneakerheads.
Of course, the love for sneakers transcends age limits. Many older Americans boast a sneaker collection, as do a large number of pre-teen fashion lovers.
If you just recently discovered your love for sneakers, you may be interested in creating a collection. So, where do you start? Here are seven easy tips to help you purchase sneakers that’ll make for an enviable collection.
Determine Which Silhouette You Love
The very first thing to do when you want to start a sneaker collection is first to find a sneaker style you like. Sneakers come in a large variety of silhouettes, so decide from the start what works best for you.
Do you love low-top sneakers, or are you a high-top sneaker person? Will a basic sneaker look good on you, or should you opt for running shoes? Is a classic white or black perfect for you, or do you love color?
Asking yourself these questions is critical before you buy shoes, particularly if you’re new to sneakers and don’t know yet what you like. You don’t want to spend money on new sneakers only to discover later that you don’t really like them.
Start Off Simple
As you begin to build your sneaker collection, don’t strain to get the newest, most expensive sneakers as your first pair. A pair of white Air Force Ones is okay for a start. That’s because these are classic sneakers and are most likely to go with just about anything in your closet.
Focus on building slowly after your first pair of sneakers. For instance, you can decide to upgrade your collection every season if you feel that you need a fresh pair. The goal should be to gradually build a sneaker collection that exudes your personality without looking like you’re straining.
Have a Sneaker Budget
Being a sneaker lover doesn’t mean spending all your money on kicks. In your financial life, the motto should always be to save more than you spend. That’s why you need to create a sneaker budget and stick to it.
If a particular sneaker isn’t in your budget for the month, simply pass on the pair. Avoid yielding to the fear of sneaker FOMO. You’ll still be able to find great sneakers at the right price later.
Research Widely
It’s always a plus to be informed when it comes to everything sneakers. Research your favorite brands and know exactly what they do differently from the rest.
Whenever there are new releases on the market, read up on them and know where to get them. Make comparisons about top kicks on the market, such as Nike Dunk vs Air Jordan 1, to know which sneakers to go for and why.
Regularly check out sneaker websites to learn of new releases and when they’re expected to drop. Keep tabs on your favorite online and local retailers to know when they expect certain pairs in their stores. Doing so helps you get some of the exclusive kicks you may have been eyeing.
Understand Sneaker Lingo
As someone who loves sneakers, you might already understand some of the basic sneaker terminologies. However, you’ll need to go deeper to become a true sneakerhead. This is especially the case if you intend to regularly purchase or sell sneakers.
You may see the letters “JB” in a retailer listing and fail to understand what they mean. That’s just short for Jordan Brand. Another commonly used word in the world of sneakers is “tonal,” which refers to a shoe that’s one color.
Sneaker lovers also often use VNDS, which means very near deadstock. For more terminology, check out sneaker term glossaries online.
Be on the Lookout for Deals and Steals
Many of the best sneakers run from hundreds of dollars to thousands. Sometimes, the figures are big enough to give you a sticker shock. But there are numerous ways to grow your collection without going bankrupt.
Try to mix in new releases that are pricier with bargains. There are plenty of places you can find great deals on top-notch sneakers, from outlet stores to social media platforms to eBay. With a bit of research, you may be able to score gems from time to time.
Learn How to Spot the Fakes
Prior to making a purchase, always check the shoe for craftsmanship. There’s a colossal counterfeit sneaker industry out there, and you need to be extra careful not to get scammed. This is especially the case if you’re buying online.
Pay special attention to details such as stitching, material, and the fonts used on tongue tags. Ask your online seller for a more up-close photo of the shoe so you can scrutinize it better. Where you have your suspicions regarding a sneaker’s authenticity, avoid buying it altogether.
Build a Great Sneaker Collection From Scratch
Once sneakers become a huge part of your style, it’s only natural to want to build a sneaker collection you can be proud of. With the tips we’ve shared on this blog, you can begin to assemble kicks that perfectly define who you are and what you love.
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