Wednesday, December 23, 2015

The Best New Sneaker of 2015


With just a few days left in 2015, it's safe to say that it's been another solid year for sneakers, and another horrible one for my personal finances. With so many stellar releases this year, it's hard to single out just one standing above everything else. But if I had to choose, I'd go with the Adidas Ultra Boost.

With all the developments in footwear, marketing a new shoe as "The Greatest Running Shoe Ever" is a pretty bold move. The jury's out on how the Adidas Ultra Boost actually performs while running, but from a design standpoint, the sneaker is pretty sleek, insanely comfortable, and manages to work in two of Adidas' key technologies - Primeknit and Boost. Kanye West co-sign notwithstanding, the last time people got super excited for a new running shoe was probably when the first generation Nike Flyknits came out. 

Only time will tell if Adidas can turn the Ultra Boost line into a staple alongside the brand's other offerings. I sure hope so, though. 


Timeless sneakers that should blow up next year.


The fashion world's love affair with sneakers doesn't seem to be slowing down any time soon. But then again, the fashion world is a crazy place. Nowadays, in this country at least, all the glory seems to go to classic, unassuming sneakers that a few years ago, were always available on the shelves of any shoe store you'd hit up. It's crazy to think that general release level sneakers would create lineups on the level of some limited edition drop. And folks who used to camp out to make a quick buck on Air Jordans are now trying to flip Stan Smiths and Superstars just to cash in on the hype.

Don't get me wrong, both shoes are timeless and more than deserving of a spot in anyone's sneaker rotation. I'm just saying there are more shoes out there that are big on history, always available, and always look great on feet. So, here's a little rundown on timeless sneakers people should pay more attention to next year.

Tuesday, December 22, 2015

adidas Originals by Kanye West: Yeezy Boost 350 "Tan"


I recently got myself a Snapchat (follow me @mykeealvero) just to follow DJ Khaled so in his words, "Another One".

In what's been a highly successful year for Kanye West's adidas line, here comes another footwear release to close out 2015.

Hit the jump for local release details.

Thursday, December 17, 2015

adidas Originals NMD



Last weekend, Adidas dropped a shoe called the NMD that took inspiration from classic sneakers in the Adidas archive while mixing in a couple of the brand's latest technologies such as Primeknit and Boost. Released in rather limited numbers, the shoe sold out pretty quickly. But it did set some high expectations for the future releases of the all-new silhouette.

Hit the jump to read more about the Adidas NMD.

Wednesday, December 16, 2015

Introducing The Nike Kobe 11


With Los Angeles Lakers superstar Kobe Bryant set to retire at the end of the NBA season, Nike has finally introduced what looks to be The Black Mamba's final on-court shoe. Before pictures even broke, there were rumors swirling of Tinker Hatfield leading the design that were ultimately proven to be false. Eric Avar once again takes the reins in coming up with a shoe that puts together all the things he and Kobe have sought to establish throughout Bryant's Nike Signature line.

The launch colorway is called the "Achilles Heel" -  a nod to both the mythical Greek warrior as well as the injury that ended Kobe's season in 2013. Available globally in select Nike Basketball retailers on January 9.


Hit the jump for more photos.

adidas Originals by Kanye West - Yeezy Boost 750 "Black"


Just when you thought Christmas shopping couldn't get any crazier, it's Yeezy season once again.

Kanye West and adidas Originals release the second style of the now iconic YEEZY BOOST 750 which was the first collaborative product launched earlier this year in February 2015. 
This YEEZY BOOST 750 comes in an all black premium suede version with a full length BOOST™ midsole, featuring adidas’ coveted cushioning technology, combining the ultimate in comfort and performance with high-end style.

Read on for pricing and local availability. 

Friday, December 11, 2015

Nike Basketball Christmas Pack


For this year's Christmas-themed pack, the folks at Nike Basketball took inspiration from fire and ice. With the temperatures dropping, the hardcourt action for all 4 Nike Basketball signature athletes is only starting to heat up. Icy blue hues and and warm reds make up the latest batch of holiday kicks to be sported by Kevin Durant, LeBron James, Kobe Bryant, and Kyrie Irving. Look for the entire Nike Basketball Christmas pack to hit select local retailers on December 26.

Hit the jump for more pictures and release info.

Thursday, December 10, 2015

Introducing the Nike Kyrie 2


Cleveland Cavaliers Point Guard Kyrie Irving is steadily making his back to the hardwood. And when he does, he'll be doing it in a new pair of shoes.

Read on below for a little rundown of the Nike Kyrie 2 as well as local release availability.

Thursday, December 3, 2015

3 New Colorways of the Under Armour Curry 2 are dropping.


"Floor General"
For a long time, Under Armour was big with the fitness crowd. But the shoes and the gear lacked the the crossover appeal to break into different markets. But that all changed when Stephen Curry signed on. The superstar point guard's first signature sneaker was a huge hit, and shoe #2  is looking to build on that momentum with each new colorway. Built with technologies such as Charged cushioning and Speedform, the Curry 2 is a serious performer on the court, and looks pretty fly on the street as well. Check out these three new colorways of the Curry 2 dropping at Titan 22.

Wednesday, December 2, 2015

'Tis The Season for The Air Jordan 11 "72-10"


The holiday season is not a kind one for sneakerheads. On top of all the crazy releases that pop up between Black Friday and New Year's Eve, over the years it's been a tradition of sorts for Jordan Brand to drop a highly anticipated Air Jordan 11 right in the middle of the holiday shopping rush. Eschewing the route of dropping a retro colorway, we get a Air Jordan 11 that takes inspiration from the NBA season where MJ and the Bulls went 72 and 10 - more that just a cut above what most teams would consider a winning season. And that shows in the quality of the materials used in the shoe's design. Premium leather, icy sole, you can't go wrong.

The Bulls' record is safe for now (unless Steph Curry and the Warriors have anything to say about it). But your wallet won't be come December 19. Check with local Jordan Brand retailers like Titan for release details.

Thursday, November 26, 2015

Vans x Disney Holiday 2015 Collection


Vans & Disney have been linking up for a while now, much to the delight of both and young at heart. Just in time for the holiday season, the two brands collaborate once again on a collection of footwear. This time around, the Classic Slip-On, Authentic and Sk8-Hi silhouettes will sport prints featuring characters from Disney's 101 Dalmatians, The Jungle Book, and Alice in Wonderland. If you're not too old for another pair of fun footwear in your rotation, check out a Vans concept store near you.

Wednesday, November 25, 2015

The "Aqua" Air Jordan 8 Returns on Black Friday


Black Friday isn't a huge thing in the Philippines, but Air Jordan collectors around the world are looking to celebrate. Last given the retro treatment in 2007, the "Aqua" Air Jordan 8 returns to retail with a fully remastered look. With this drop serving as the start for another crazy holiday season in the world of sneakers, better hold on to that 13th month pay, you're gonna need it.

The "Aqua" 8s drop on November 27. Keep tabs on your preferred Jordan Brand retailers for release info.

Thursday, November 19, 2015

Nike Football Tiempo Legend 6


The Tiempo is one of the foundations of Nike's football heritage. With all the changes in the way players play football, and with boots becoming lighter and faster, the Tiempo has become the silhouette that blends a classic feel with cutting edge technology. The sixth Tiempo is no different. In place of quilting, The Tiempo Legend 6 features an inner support skeleton aimed to deliver the quilted leather feel without any perforations. It also helps to ensure a more consistent fit, something to address the way leather boots stretch over time.

Watch out for players such as Gerard Pique, Sergio Ramos, Jerome Boateng, Hugo Lloris and Andrea Pirlo to lace them up very soon. We'll get our chances come early December.

Nike Basketball "Opening Night" Pack


The first game of every NBA season is important. Aside from the celebrations that come with the return of the NBA, a team's first game usually sets the tone for the season. That's why players have to show up. And they usually do in cool shoes.

The season may have already tipped off, but Nike Basketball decked out their signature athletes in special "Opening Night" colorways for game number 1. Out of the pack, the only silhouette making its way to local stores is the LeBron 13. Check with select Nike Basketball retails such as Titan for availability.

Sunday, November 15, 2015

New Balance 574 Fresh Foam


When it comes to updating certain sneaker silhouettes, the results tend to be pretty hit or miss. This one's a resounding hit. Though it dropped a few months ago, I've taken a liking to the way the classic New Balance 574 gets updated with the brand's Fresh Foam technology. The result isn't a cushy, springy ride like what you'd get from a shoe like the Adidas Pure Boost, but the update gives the 574 a slimmer, more lightweight and significantly ups the comfort level of an already comfy shoe. Check out a New Balance store near you and give these a try.

Thursday, November 5, 2015

Nike CR7 Mercurial Superfly "Savage Beauty"


Inspired by the volcanic islands of his homeland, Cristiano Ronaldo's latest signature football boots are a thing of beauty. Savage beauty, that is. How they got the lava graphics on the Flyknit upper, I'll never know. But believe me, these things are a sight to behold. So if you're a CR7 fan, better head on to Bootcamp now and cop a pair of these because they're pretty limited in number. If Flyknit isn't your thing, there's a takedown version available as well. Savage beauty. There's an allegory to Ronaldo's game in there somewhere.

Nike LeBron 13 "Horror Flick"


Halloween may be done, but the latest colorway of the Nike LeBron 13 definitely fits right in. Inspired by King James' love for scary movies, the white upper and the red splatter make for a shoe that certainly sends a message that you're out for blood when you show up to your next pickup game rocking them. Watch for these to drop on November 13th (Friday the 13th, no less) at select Nike Basketball retailers as well as Nike.com.

Boxfresh A/W 15 Collection


British lifestyle footwear brand Boxfresh goes back to its roots for their latest collection. With close ties to the youth and innovation prevalent in London street culture, Boxfresh rolls out a diverse collection of shoes that are both rugged and refined at the same time. Their latest campaign also heralds the launch of "We Are Boxfresh", introducing personalities and creatives from London who embody the brand's values to a larger audience. Watch out for the latest collection to drop in stores very soon.

Check out more shots after the jump.

Tuesday, November 3, 2015

Celebrate LeBron James' 25,000 Career Points with a Special LeBron 13


Being the youngest NBA player to score over 25,000 points is pretty special. To celebrate the occasion, Nike is giving LeBron James and all his witnesses worldwide a chance to score a special LeBron 13 off NIKEiD.

The NIKEiD Lebron 13 25k is available on NIKEiD for a limited time only. Hit the jump to know all the customizable details.

Wednesday, October 28, 2015

Awesome Sneaker Groups: Adidas Talk Philippines



It's been a strong couple of years for Adidas. From a business standpoint, the German sportswear brand still faces the huge challenge of knocking Nike off the top spot in terms of sneaker sales. But what numbers won't tell you are all the ways Adidas is trying to out-cool Nike. And for the most part, you could make the argument that it's actually working. 

A hard push for the Originals line, the introduction of key technologies such as Boost, and collaborations with everyone from Rick Owens to a guy named Kanye West have made the Three Stripes more than worthy of a spot in your sneaker rotation. That's not to say that Adidas was ever uncool in the first place. It's just that with more and more people wearing the brand, more and more people are gonna want to share that love. 

That's where Adidas Talk Philippines (ATP) comes in. From a group that started with around 600 people towards the tail end of 2012, membership has blossomed into one that's almost 30,000 strong and counting! It's run pretty well too, with heads more than willing to help folks out. Whether you're buying, selling, or just sharing a slice of that Three Stripe Life, you've got a place at ATP. 

Join the group HERE

Friday, October 23, 2015

The Nike Mag Goes Back to The Future


If you followed the Back to The Future movie trilogy, the future has arrived. Aside from the DeLorean and the hoverboard, the Nike Mag was one of the most iconic items from the series. Almost 30 years after first being spotted on screen, the Nike Mag is back for another run, this time complete with its self-lacing abilities. Michael J. Fox already has his, but the rest of the world will have to wait until spring of next year to score a pair. To the dismay of many collectors, the shoes will once again be released only via auction, with proceeds going to Parkinson's research. If you're planning on getting a pair, better save your money now.

Wednesday, October 21, 2015

The Sneakpeek is Unlocking Another Exclusive Release


Remember the Adidas Equipment line? The no-frills, serious sportswear offshoot of the Three Stripes back in the day? Well, some key sneakers from the line are back and enjoying a second life as highly collectible kicks. One of those silhouettes is the Adidas EQT Running Support 2.0, which is dropping in both classic black and color blocked looks this Saturday exclusively at The Sneakpeek stores. If you're down to pick up a pair, call a Sneakpeek store near you and reserve now, because these probably won't stay on shelves very long. Whether you use them for "serious sports", that's up to you.

Hit the jump for more reservation details.

Sunday, October 18, 2015

NB Football is in the Philippines


Just N time.

A while back, it was announced that New Balance would be entering the football shoe market, aiming to challenge established names like Adidas and Nike. It took a while, but New Balance Football is finally in the country. The brand's initial offering comes in the form of two shoes - the Visaro and the Furon. The former is ideal for players who like to make chances, while the latter is for those who like taking them. Make of that what you will. If you want to give New Balance Football a try, check out a New Balance store near you.

Thursday, October 15, 2015

5 Shoe Picks From The Capital Launch


Capital is a new sneaker store that recently opened its doors in UP Town Center. Operating with the promise of creating a new shoe movement in mind, the good people behind the brand are committed to establishing it as a destination for a new generation of sneakerheads.

I got lucky to be invited to the store's launch yesterday, so I brought my girlfriend to check it out with me. Aside from getting to know some of the folks behind the concept, I got a first hand look at the stuff they'd be bringing to the table.

The store carries a wide range of brands to satisfy the needs of different kinds of sneaker fiends. Expect to see staples like Nike and Adidas sharing shelf space with offerings from labels like Fred Perry. You might see some exclusive and limited edition stuff mixed in with some general releases, but do expect bigger releases and an even wider product range in the future. From what I saw, there was a good amount of heat on up for grabs, so I'm looking forward to seeing what they'll be dropping in the future. Read on below to check out 5 shoes that I think are worth copping right now at Capital.

Adidas D Rose 6 "Home"


James Harden may be getting most of the buzz when it comes to Adidas Basketball these days, but you might not want to forget about Derrick Rose just yet. The D Rose 6 is the latest sneaker in the Chicago Bulls' franchise player's sneaker line, and the launch colorway is an absolute beauty. Infused with design details inspired by the Windy City, the D Rose 6 comes loaded with herringbone traction, a FITFRAME cage, and Boost to keep you comfy. Pick up a pair now at an Adidas Basketball retailer near you.

Tuesday, October 13, 2015

Fall for The Autumn Lineup of Chuck IIs


There's only really two kinds of weather in the Philippines: crazy hot, or really rainy. We don't follow a four season cycle, but the colorways of Autumn/Holiday lineup of Converse's updated Chuck Taylors are great to wear all year round. My money's on the bordeaux, but the grey is a definite sleeper. Pick up a pair at a Converse store near you. If you're not feeling a high-top pair, the lows are definitely worth a look.

Sunday, October 11, 2015

Gum Soled Old Skools are Always a Good Idea


Nothing fancy here. Just a trio of Vans Old Skools sitting on some gum soles. They dropped a while back, and they're still on shelves as of this weekend. They aren't the WTAPS collabs that released locally about a week ago, but command enough attention to make you think they were done in partnership with someone or some store. Great materials, clean execution, and done in colors that'll go with almost anything you throw on. Pick up a pair at Vans store near you. 

Tuesday, September 29, 2015

Introducing the Nike LeBron 13


Tailor-made for arguably the most explosive baller on the planet, the Nike Lebron 13 combines lockdown fit and dynamic cushion to match the power and speed of LeBron James.

Read on below to get more of the tech specs and design inspiration for King James' newest shoe.

Thursday, September 17, 2015

Reebok Crossfit Nano Pump Fusion


By this time, a good chunk of you should have an idea about CrossFit - the fitness training method that combines weightlifting, gymnastics, and occasionally throwing up. Well, Reebok's had their name in that scene for a while now by pumping out sneakers specifically designed for the demands of the different activities CrossFit brings together. The latest model to hit local stores is the Reebok Crossfit Nano Pump Fusion - trainers that finally bring the brand's iconic Pump technology for a custom fitting shoe that'll last no matter what the WOD (that's workout of the day for the rest of us regular mortals). They'll also look pretty good even if you're just figuring out what a box jump is. Pick up a pair now at a Reebok or a Royal Sporting House near you. 


Thursday, September 10, 2015

Nike Kobe X "Mambacurial"


Kobe Bryant loves football. And it pops up every now and then in his signature shoe line with Nike. First seen on the Nike Kobe 8, the Nike Kobe X takes design inspiration once again from the Nike Mercurial - a range of football boots ideal for speedy, attack minded players. Hence, the "Mambacurial" nickname. Whether you're down with the beautiful game or not, you gotta admit it's a pretty beautiful shoe. Look for it at Nike Basketball retailers like Titan starting this weekend.

Tuesday, September 1, 2015

Nike Sportswear "Tech Fleece" Pack


Pretty much anyone who ever owns an item of clothing made out of Nike's Tech Fleece can attest to the fabric's crazy levels of comfort. Now, the folks at the Swoosh are dialing up the cozy factor on a number of classic silhouettes. Pictured here are the Nike Air Huarache and the Cortez decked out in heather grey Tech Fleece - quite a good look for the chilly months up ahead if you ask me. If neither style catches your fancy, a number of more contemporary silhouettes like the Roshe Run and the Juvenate will be sporting Tech Fleece uppers as well. Check out stores like Sole Academy and Urban Athletics for local availability.

Wednesday, August 19, 2015

Yeezy Season is back once again.


If you couldn't pick up a pair of the low-cut Yeezy Boosts when they first dropped, Kanye West and Adidas Originals are back with another colorway of the Yeezy 350 Boost that's you've probably seen on your Instagram feed way more than actual photos of what your family and friends have been up to. 

Wednesday, August 12, 2015

Puma x BWGH R698


Following a successful first collaboration last year, Puma links up once again with Parisian fashion label Brooklyn We Go Hard (BWGH) on another round of footwear. The German footwear brand's R698 runner gets used as the canvas for another set of subdued colorways. And in true BWGH fashion, it's really the little details like the use of premium suede and nubuck that really set things off. Despite retro running shoes pushing past the saturation point nowadays and sportswear/fashion collaborations becoming more expected with each passing season, there's always room for well executed product like this. And you don't need to speak French to appreciate it. Pick up a pair today at Sole Academy.

SneakPeek is dropping some NB heat this Saturday.


If you haven't been following developments in the Philippine sneaker scene over the past couple of years, a number of stores have mushroomed to supply heads with everything from runners to Jordans to limited edition stuff. The Sneak Peek is one of those stores. Since the opening of the first branch in the East Wing of the Shangri-La Mall, the brand prides itself on dropping exciting stuff for casual fans and serious sneakerheads alike.

This weekend, The Sneak Peek is exclusively releasing a couple of New Balance silhouettes - The 580XX and New Balance Studio Pack. And to celebrate the occasion, Joyce Pring will be hosting the drop alongside beats coming from Travis Monsod. If you're in the Eastwood area on Saturday, swing by!


Thursday, August 6, 2015

Air Jordan 11 Low IE "Bred"


Any Air Jordan 11 is sure to be a hit among sneakerheads. But an Air Jordan in a Black/Red colorway? Even before they drop you know they're already as good as gone. Set to return next month is the "Bred" Air Jordan 11 Low IE, which was last seen in 2011. Consider this an advanced warning. Check back for more concrete release info as it comes in.

Sunday, July 26, 2015

Adidas Originals x Pharrell Williams Superstar "Supershell" Collection


After releasing a huge number of Superstars in a crazy wide range of colors, Pharrell Williams collaborates with Adidas Originals once again on a collection of Superstars. Only now, he isn't alone. This time around, the musician and producer enlisted the help of creative friends from around the world to write another chapter in the already rich history of the shell-toed sneaker.

In this collection, the shell toe takes center stage as a medium for two distinct looks: The Artwork and the Sculpted collection. Learn more about them after the jump.

Nike Basketball "Rise" Collection


Recently, NBA star Paul George was in town to open up Nike's House of Rise in the Philippines. In case you haven't heard, Nike "Rise" is a documentary series that allows 24 local ballers to learn, play, and live like a Nike athlete. To commemorate the occasion, The Swoosh also dropped a limited collection of apparel and footwear consisting of the LeBron 12 low, Kyrie 1, KDTrey5 and the Venomenon 5. Hit the jump for the complete price list and availability.

Thursday, July 23, 2015

Get Ready for the Converse Chuck Taylor II


The Converse Chuck Taylor All-Star has been in the game for so long. So when news broke that a second model in the storied signature line would be releasing, it made waves across the sneaker community. But when it was finally unveiled, core sneakerheads will be glad to know that instead of a drastic redesign, the "Chuck II" is an attempt to bring the iconic Chuck Taylor into the modern world. Subtle details like an anti-slip tongue, perforated lining and a Lunarlon insole for extra bounce and comfort ensure that the new Chuck Taylor will be an all-year favorite for sneakerheads, artists and all-around creative types everywhere. Expect the Chuck II to drop at local Converse shops very soon.

Thursday, July 16, 2015

Air Jordan 7 "Bordeaux"


Just like a fine wine, the Air Jordan 7 "Bordeaux" gets better with age. Following an initial re-release back in 2011, the 2015 version of the sneakers Michael Jordan wore in the 1992 NBA All-Star Game are as close to the originals as the originals themselves. With the retro Jordan market not expected to slow down any time soon, expect these won't last long on shelves when they drop this weekend. If you're thinking of copping, check out Titan and other select Jordan Brand retailers.

Wednesday, July 8, 2015

Kendrick Lamar x Reebok Ventilator


Critically acclaimed Compton rapper Kendrick Lamar announced he was tying up with Reebok a while back. His first drop was a pretty loud take on the classic Reebok Ventilator running shoe. This time around, the shoe choice stays the same, but instead of a day-glo colorway, a subtle off-white serves as the base for the collaboration. Gum soles and contrast laces add a touch of class, while both the rapper's name and his label's branding take a prominent spot on the tongue of each shoe. However, the clincher of all details can be found at the heel, where the words "BLUE" and "RED" can be found. It's an symbolism for the gang culture prevalent in the rapper's native city, while the tonal colorway serves as an interpretation of trying to be neutral to it all. Quite a banger, yet pretty deep. Much like many a Kendrick Lamar song. Pick up a pair at Sole Academy. 

Friday, July 3, 2015

Yeezy Season Came and Went. An Adidas x Sole Academy Event Recap


The much hyped and much coveted Adidas x Kanye West Yeezy 350 Boost, in the flesh and in the Philippines. 
Last June 27, hundreds of Philippine sneakerheads flocked to Bonifacio Global City for the Adidas Yeezy 350 Boost drop which happened at Sole Academy. If you're not new to the game, you must be aware of the crazy levels of hype that surround anything Kanye West is involved in. So despite the online mechanics people needed to do to simply get a chance to join the raffle, tons of heads still went and took their chances to be one of the lucky few to head home with a brand new pair of shoes from Mr. West's Adidas collaboration.

Check out the photos after the jump to see what you missed!

Brandblack is Coming.


Born from the union of high fashion sensibilities and innovative performance technology, Brandblack is an independent sportswear brand for modern athletes who hold winning and looking good in the same regard. Launched in 2013, brand founder David Raysse and Billy Dill have brought together their love of sports and expertise in streetwear and high fashion to create innovative products capable of rivaling offerings from the bigger sportswear brands out there. Check out the lookbook for BrandBlack's "FutureLegends" collection featuring local cagers Marc Pingris and Stanley Pringle, and watch for the collection to drop in extremely limited quantities this weekend at Titan.

Monday, June 29, 2015

The Nike KD8 is inspired by Sabretooth Tigers


Kevin Durant with the KD8, the most technical shoe of his career. 
If you were in a Nike store last weekend, you might have seen the Nike Basketball "Independence Day" Pack - a collection of on-court footwear for all 4 Nike signature ballers. While each shoe was decked out in colors and prints proudly proclaiming the stars and stripes, the release served as a low-key debut for Kevin Durant's new sneaker.

Check below to read up on KD's most innovative and technically advanced hoops shoe to date - the Nike KD8. The launch colorway pictured above will be available on July 11 at Titan and other Nike Basketball retailers for the price of P9495.

Sunday, June 28, 2015

The 2015 Nike Hyperdunk is inspired by the Nike Mag.


When the Nike Hyperdunk made its debut in 2008, not only did it look cool, but it set a standard for other basketball shoes to be measured against. A number of shoes later, the Hyperdunk is back for 2015 and looks to set that standard once again.

Inside Access: Nike Flyweave Technology Takes Shape




Tuesday, June 23, 2015

Realize Your True Basketball Potential with Nike Rise



If you've followed the blog long enough, I've said numerous times that basketball is huge in The Philippines. It's practically religion. That's why it makes perfect sense for Nike to put up a documentary basketball program to help aspiring young ballers to rise beyond their limits.

Read more about the Nike Rise in words straight from the source after the jump.

Tuesday, June 16, 2015

Yeezy Season is Approaching.


When Adidas and Kanye West announced they were working together, hypebeasts around the world went nuts. The first wave of apparel and footwear that sprang from the collaboration may be pretty polarizing, but the hype (and demand) wasn't in short supply. Despite West's intention for his designs to be made available to all, the first footwear offering from the Adidas x Kanye West collaboration never found its way to local retailers. Fortunately, that's about to change with the release of the Yeezy 350 Boost - a low-top silhouette sporting a Primeknit upper and rope laces sitting on top of a Boost-loaded sole. Yeezus disciples better keep it locked to local Adidas social media and to select retailers such as Sole Academy to better your chances of scoring a pair.

Wednesday, June 10, 2015

Hit The Gym Hard in the Nike MetCon 1


Touted as a do-it-all training sneaker for high intensity workouts, the MetCon 1 sneaker is Nike's "unofficial" entry into the growing CrossFit market. Despite the silhouette's sleek and simple look, the MetCon is packed with Flywire tech to keep your feet locked down and built with abrasion-resistant uppers to get through the toughest workouts, even when you don't want to. So if you're looking for a new shoe to hit the gym hard in, these make a great choice whether you're running, jumping, or lifting. Just don't skip leg day. 

Shop the pictured colorway as well as a good selection of other Nike Training shoes and apparel in select local Nike stores.  

Tuesday, June 2, 2015

Stand proud in these Adidas Stan Smiths


The first ever demonstration for gay rights in America was held in 1965. That same year, Adidas dropped a tennis shoe named after French pro player Robert Haillet. After Haillet's retirement, Adidas pushed on the shoe, then naming it after Stan Smith. And the rest is pretty much history. 

In a way, these two separate events come together through a colorful rendition of the Adidas Stan Smith. The classic white and green colorway sets the stage for some vibrant details such as rainbow laces and multi-colored insoles. The paint dripping out the shoe's perforated stripes is a pretty nice touch. There's gotta be some symbolism for coming out and letting your true colors come forth in there somewhere. 

While no release date has been announced, word around the net is that these shoes will be dropping sometime in June. Just in time for when a good chunk of American pride events take place.