6/10/13 - Summertime Sneakers...
Gents, summer has arrived. So while you're breaking out your shades and your short shorts, summer Saturday style screams for sneakers. However, not all pairs are created equal, and while the sneaker is an American tradition, they’re not so American Gentlemen friendly because:
-They tend to wear out in only one or two seasons.
-They're almost always made in a sweatshop. Err.. I mean made in China.
-Even though they cost little to make, you often times have to put down a pretty penny to get your hands on em.
- The latest trends are constantly changing.
BUT, a sneaker is an essential item whether we like it or not. They're the key piece for sports, long days of walking and a wardrobe staple. So while it doesn't quite fit in the formula, here's some tips to get the most outta your sneaks.
I know, I know. You’re saying, “But isn’t American Gentlemen about streamlining your wardrobe? Less is more? Quality over quantity? etc etc”. And while American Gentlemen is about those things, we have to tweak it a little to get the most out of this item. So, generally speaking, sneakers die after about one season’s worth of use, two seasons if you hardly wear them. And a year if you never wear them. But if you’re never wearing something, what’s the point?! I figure, get two pairs, so you’re wearing them half the amount of time, and in turn they’ll at least last you an entire year. Less is still more, but unfortunately for sneakers, no matter the quality, you’re gonna wear them down. So keep it at two, and you’ll get two different options, for twice the amount of time. (This especially works to keep your white sneaks white longer)
Take the price points easy
Keds, the original sneaker came out in 1916. Since then, shoe companies have been making the production process cheaper and cheaper as most of the major brands ship their production overseas. The problem, is that despite these dirt cheap costs, some brands will still charge you $100 + dollars for them. The solution, don’t pay more than $40. My pair cost a bit more cause I wanted that leather material over the typical canvas, but we’re talking $15-$20 more. Not $50 - $100 more. And if you’re buying two sets, that’s $80 for two. Not bad, considering those new Nike Flyknits will run you $160.
We get it. The newest, sickest, shoe has just dropped. But the problem is, the next newest, sickest, most ill, crispy, shoe game crushing pair is about to drop next month. And the month after that, and the month after that. So instead of chasing your tail in circles, ignore the hype. Stick to the classics, and if that new pair stands the test of time, then check it out. Because the grass is always greener, so if you can get the eff of the lawn, you and your bank account will be happier.
Questions? Comments? Hit me up.
