If you’re a part of the sneaker industry, your age doesn’t matter because you definitely know your icons. After all, you need to know the lore whether you’re in it for the fashion or the profit. If you’re new here, then allow us to give you a crash course on the rise of the sneaker industry! You can’t be part of something that you don’t understand, and we can help out now. From the first rubber-soled kicks to self-lacing tech, the industry surely came a long way. So, let’s dive right into it all, shall we?
When Was the First Sneaker Made?
Sneakers go all the way back to the 18th century, but of course, they weren’t “sneakers” per se. You see, back then they wore a primitive version of sneakers: the rubber-soled plimsolls. These babies had no right and left sides, but that would change in 1892. That’s the year when the US Rubber Company created more comfortable rubber kicks with canvas uppers that they called Keds. However, it wasn’t until 1917 that the company mass-produced the sneakers.
Now you see, 1917 was a crucial year for the sneaker industry. Why? Because that’s when Marquis Converse created the first basketball sneakers: the Converse All-Stars. Now, fast forward to 1923, the Indian basketball player turned marketer endorsed these babies. It’s none other than the legendary Chuck Taylor! The kicks ended up being the best-selling basketball sneakers of all time. Hence, their name became the Chuck Taylor All-Stars!
The Dassler Brothers Bring the Kicks to the Yard
In 1924, the sneaker industry began taking shape with the entrance of Adolf and Rudolf Dassler. That year, the brothers started their company, the Dassler Brothers Shoe Factory, in the basement of their mother’s house. However, it wasn’t until 1936 that the company had its big break in that year’s Berlin Olympics. The US sprinter Jesse Owens wore the company’s spiked shoe and won four gold medals! Sadly though, the brothers’ partnership ended in 1948, and each brother went on to found his own company.
So, Adolf went and opened a footwear brand in his name, which is today’s Adidas! In parallel, Rudolf went on to found Puma (which was gonna be Ruda after his name). The most interesting thing about these two brands is that they caused a rift in their hometown because of that rivalry! If you wanna read more details about this sibling/brand competition, check this out.
Lifestyle Sneakers Become a Thing
So far, sneakerwear was exclusive to sports in the early 20th century. But that’s soon gonna change because, in the 1950s, kids started to wear sneakers because they could. Hence, the birth of the “lifestyle sneakers” concept. It was also helpful that James Dean wore kicks in Rebel Without A Cause… and who doesn’t want to be as cool as him?
The Sneaker Industry Explodes
While sneakers are becoming more mainstream, brands are adapting. However, one brand was working extra hard to get the exposure and the big break it wanted. And that big break came in the form of a rookie player in 1984: Michael Jordan. After a lot of back and forth and reluctance, Nike managed to sign Michael Jordan and make history. You see, Jordan ended up becoming the GOAT in the game, and everybody wanted to be like Mike. What started on the hardwood floor, became a legacy in the streets too with everyone rocking Js. You can read more about the brand history right here!
Where Does the Sneaker Industry Stand Today?
Although the 80s were the highlight of the sneaker industry, it was still a niche to a certain extent! However, in the early 2000s, that was when sneakers became a real staple in fashion and streetwear. And we owe that in part to the skateboarding scene, but you can read all about that here. But now, sneakers are as important as any other fashion item you can own. And while demand keeps growing, everybody is trying to keep up to catch the hottest trends.
This led to the birth of the sneaker resale industry, which made sneakers a collectible investment just like art. And don’t make mistakes, that’s a pretty lucrative venture if you do it right. But if you really wanna get into it, you should make sure you have the right tools to do so. Now, one of the most important tools a sneakerhead can have is a sneaker bot. But we’re not gonna get all techy on you now. And if you’re interested in that, make sure you check this out. And for more sneaker and botting news and guides, our blog is all you need. Godspeed!
