The Hottest Collectable Vintage Sneakers Right Now: A Guide for Sneakerheads…

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If you’re a sneakerhead, you know that there’s nothing like owning a pair of vintage sneakers ^{↗ (AD)}. They’re not only stylish and comfortable, but also full of history and nostalgia. Whether you’re looking for a rare pair of Jordans, a classic pair of Converse, or a quirky pair of Etonics, there’s a vintage sneaker out there for you.

But how do you find the best collectable vintage sneakers right now? And how do you take care of them once you get them? In this blog post, we’ll give you some tips and tricks on how to score the hottest vintage sneakers on the market, and how to keep them in mint condition.

What are vintage sneakers?

Vintage sneakers are shoes that were made in the past, usually between the 1950s and the 1990s. They’re often associated with specific sports, music genres, subcultures, or celebrities. Some of the most iconic vintage sneakers include:

• Nike Air Force 1 ^{↗ (AD)}: Introduced in 1982 as the first basketball shoe to feature Nike Air technology, the Air Force 1 has become a staple of streetwear and hip-hop culture. The shoe has been released in countless colourways and collaborations, making it one of the most versatile and popular sneakers ever.
• Adidas Stan Smith ^{↗ (AD)}: Named after the tennis legend, the Stan Smith was originally launched in 1963 as a performance shoe. It later became a fashion icon thanks to its minimalist design and signature green heel tab. The shoe has been worn by celebrities like Pharrell Williams, David Beckham, and Kanye West.
• Converse Chuck Taylor All Star ^{↗ (AD)}: The Chuck Taylor All Star is arguably the most classic sneaker of all time. It was created in 1917 as a basketball shoe, and was endorsed by Charles “Chuck” Taylor, a professional player and coach. The shoe has a simple canvas upper, a rubber toe cap, and a star logo on the ankle. It’s been worn by everyone from rock stars to presidents.
• Puma Suede ^{↗ (AD)}: The Puma Suede was born in 1968 as a track and field shoe. It gained fame when Tommie Smith and John Carlos wore them at the 1968 Olympics, where they raised their fists in a Black Power salute. The shoe later became a favourite of breakdancers, rappers, and skaters, thanks to its durable suede upper and grippy rubber sole.
• Reebok Pump ^{↗ (AD)}: The Reebok Pump was a revolutionary sneaker that debuted in 1989. It featured an inflatable air bladder that could be pumped up to adjust the fit and support of the shoe. The Pump was popularised by basketball stars like Dominique Wilkins and Dee Brown, who famously pumped up his shoes before winning the 1991 Slam Dunk Contest.

How to find collectable vintage sneakers right now?

There are many ways to find collectable vintage sneakers right now, depending on your budget, preference, and luck. Here are some of the most common methods:

• Online platforms: There are many online platforms that specialise in selling vintage sneakers, such as eBay ^{↗ (AD)}, Etsy, Grailed, Depop, StockX, and GOAT. These platforms allow you to browse through thousands of listings from sellers around the world, compare prices and conditions, and bid or buy instantly. However, you should also be careful of scams, fakes, and overpriced items. Always check the seller’s feedback, ask for more photos and details, and use secure payment methods.
• Thrift stores: Thrift stores are a great place to find vintage sneakers at bargain prices. You never know what gems you might discover among the racks of used clothing and shoes. However, thrift shopping also requires patience, persistence, and luck. You might have to visit multiple stores before you find something worth buying. You should also inspect the shoes carefully for any flaws or damages before purchasing them.
• Sneaker conventions: Sneaker conventions are events where sneaker enthusiasts gather to buy, sell, trade, and showcase their collections. They’re usually held in large venues like convention centres or stadiums,
  and attract hundreds or thousands of attendees. Sneaker conventions are an ideal place to find rare and exclusive vintage sneakers, as well as meet other sneakerheads and learn more about sneaker culture. However, sneaker conventions can also be expensive, crowded, and competitive. You might have to pay an entrance fee, wait in long lines, and haggle with sellers to get the best deals.

How to take care of collectable vintage sneakers?

Once you’ve found your dream pair of vintage sneakers, you’ll want to keep them in good shape for as long as possible.

Here are some tips on how to take care of collectable vintage sneakers:

• Clean them regularly: Dirt, dust, and stains can ruin the appearance and value of your vintage sneakers. You should clean them regularly with a soft brush, a mild soap, and warm water. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials that might damage the materials or colours of your shoes. You can also use specialised sneaker cleaning ^{↗ (AD)} products and tools for a more thorough cleaning.
• Store them properly: Exposure to sunlight, moisture, and heat can cause your vintage sneakers to fade, crack, or mould. You should store them in a cool, dry, and dark place, preferably in their original boxes or in clear plastic containers. You can also stuff them with tissue paper or shoe trees to maintain their shape and prevent creasing.
• Wear them sparingly: As much as you love your vintage sneakers, you should also wear them sparingly. Wearing them too often or too hard can cause them to wear out faster or lose their value. You should reserve your vintage sneakers for special occasions or casual outings, and avoid wearing them in bad weather or rough terrain. You should also rotate your sneakers with other pairs to give them time to rest and breathe.

Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. The author is not affiliated with any of the brands or products mentioned in this article. The author is not responsible for any damages or losses that may result from the use of the information or products in this article.