(2/5) The (de)evolution of a sneakerhead. Full article will drop on substack next week.
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So, again…how did I get here? This is obviously a simple question with a very complex answer, because everything is always changing. I’m often confused by the ‘hobby’ and what it’s become and it feels like the more I learn about it, the less I know about it (but the more I learn about myself). Which, I suppose, is completely rational and normal when your benchmark is in a constant state of flux.
Every now and then, I stumble upon sneaker-related websites. Initially, I would browse them out of curiosity, but also to verify the claims about the quality of counterfeit sneakers, especially from the perspective of the only Sneaker Grading company. Are some fake sneakers indeed better assembled than authentic ones?
As I delved deeper into Yupoo, WeChat, Ali, DHGate, and WhatsApp, I tried to grasp the magnitude of the issue. That's when I encountered someone deeply entrenched in this world. He shared numerous photos of his office, warehouse, or room filled with an eclectic mix of sneakers. Eventually, he claimed he could make anything. ANYTHING. Skeptical, I decided to test him.
Me: "Can you make Homers?"
Him: "What are Homers? Send pic."
Me: (sends pic).
Him: "Easy. $120."
(I don't know why I asked for Homers, but I did.)
I'm aware this is frowned upon in some circles, and rightfully so. Or is it? I'm not even sure anymore, and honestly, I might not even care. I didn't buy anything (since I don't NEED anything), but the realization that everything ever created was suddenly available via WhatsApp for $120—even if fake—was disheartening. The thrill was gone.