Home

StockX, a leading culture marketplace known for its comprehensive analysis of consumer preferences, published their latest insights into the most sought-after sneakers and shoes for the current season.

The cold weather inevitably shifts buying patterns towards footwear that offers comfort and protection against the elements. This year is no exception, with Ugg boots emerging as a top choice among consumers. The brand, renowned for its classic sheepskin boots, continues to capture the market with its cozy and stylish offerings.

Simultaneously, there’s a noticeable surge in demand for performance-oriented styles that incorporate innovative materials such as GORE-TEX. Footwear from brands like Salomon, New Balance, and Hoka is gaining traction, thanks to their enhanced durability and waterproof features that are ideal for outdoor activities during the colder months.

Interestingly, while winter typically sees a pivot towards materials suited for insulation and moisture resistance, Drew Haines, merchandising director at StockX, points out a trend that defies conventional seasonal expectations. Shoppers are enthusiastically purchasing designs that feature mesh, pony hair, and suede—materials that are traditionally not associated with cold weather resilience. This indicates a strong consumer desire to stay on-trend with the latest sneaker releases, regardless of the season.

Further diversifying the winter shoe landscape, Timberland boots remain a staple for their rugged durability and iconic style. Meanwhile, the latest Samba collection by adidas in collaboration with Wales Bonner introduces a fusion of classic and contemporary aesthetics, catering to those who appreciate a more refined sneaker silhouette.

The skateboarding scene also continues to influence mainstream fashion, with skate-inspired shoes such as the adidas Campus 00s making their mark. These sneakers offer a blend of casual comfort and street credibility, appealing to a broad demographic that includes both skaters and fashion-forward individuals.

1) Salomon XT-6 Gore-Tex

2) Adidas x Wales Bonner Sambas

3) Ugg Boots and Slippers

4) adidas Campus 00s

5) Nike Air Footscape Woven – Cow Print (Women’s)

6) Timberland 6″ Premium Waterproof Boot

From the basketball courts to the silver screen, PF Flyers has left an notable mark on American culture. This iconic footwear brand, synonymous with both style and comfort, has a storied past that dates back to 1937. A history that is as much about innovation as it is about the pursuit of excellence in footwear design.

The inception of PF Flyers can be traced to the development of the Posture Foundation insole, a pioneering technology designed specifically for sport shoes. It was this breakthrough in cushioning and support that gave birth to the brand name PF in 1937. The innovative insole was a game-changer, promising athletes the ability to “run faster and jump higher,” and it wasn’t long before PF sport styles became a staple for their deep athletic traditions across court, track, and field. Fast forward to 1958, and PF Flyers was making history once again. In a groundbreaking move, the brand collaborated with Bob Cousy, basketball’s first superstar from the Boston Celtics. This partnership resulted in the creation of iconic basketball styles that continue to influence the category to this day. It was a testament to the brand’s commitment to excellence and its ability to capture the spirit of athleticism and competition.

By the 1970s, PF Flyers had cemented its place as one of the most popular sneaker brands in the United States. The sneakers transcended their athletic origins to become essential footwear for a generation setting trends from campuses to clubs. The brand’s cultural impact was further solidified when it was lionized in films such as “The Sandlot,” showcasing its appeal to a wide audience and its status as an American institution. Today, under the leadership of Kassia Davis, who acquired the brand through her family-owned company New Balance in July of 2021, PF Flyers is poised for a renaissance. With plans to roll out new styles in 2023 while maintaining the beloved heritage designs, the brand is set to resonate with modern consumers.

Davis brings a passion for creative design and branding in the fashion space, aiming to evolve PF Flyers without losing sight of its rich heritage. Her vision is clear: to challenge the status quo and lead a team that’s ready to embrace evolution and self-expression. As we reflect on the original history of PF Flyers, it’s evident that the brand has always been at the forefront of innovation in the footwear industry. From its revolutionary insole to its culturally significant collaborations, PF Flyers has consistently demonstrated a commitment to quality and a keen understanding of its consumer base. As the brand looks to the future, it does so with a nod to its past, ensuring that the legacy of PF Flyers will continue to stride forward, one step at a time.

The premier collaboration “Reebok Impact” is set to launch 2024.

On December 7th, 2023, Futureverse and Reebok unveiled an exclusive partnership that promises to revolutionize the digital fashion landscape. This collaboration is poised to merge cutting-edge technologies such as AI, web3, gaming, and the metaverse, offering consumers a new way to engage with digital fashion that’s as impactful as their real-world presence.

Shara Senderoff and Aaron McDonald, the co-founders of Futureverse, expressed their enthusiasm for the partnership, emphasizing the shared vision of active participation in life’s journey. They envision a digital realm where every action tells a story, and each narrative contributes to shaping our world. The initiative, named “Reebok Impact,” is set to launch in 2024 and aims to provide a transformative digital shoe experience that integrates artificial intelligence and digital wearables.

Reebok‘s brand ethos, encapsulated by the slogan “life is not a spectator sport,” resonates with Futureverse‘s approach to engaging consumers through experiential learning. The “Reebok Impact” project will enable users to share significant life moments, reflecting the brand’s commitment to individuality and community engagement.

Todd Krinsky, CEO of Reebok, highlighted the brand’s alignment with consumer trends and transformative technology. He underscored Reebok’s dedication to encouraging active participation in the world and integrating the unique stories of its community into the brand’s products. The partnership with Futureverse is seen as a step beyond traditional innovation boundaries, aiming to involve consumers in the digital progression of Reebok’s offerings in unprecedented ways.

This announcement signifies the beginning of a long-term relationship between Reebok and Futureverse, with plans to broaden their collaboration, enhance functionality, and introduce new experiences that will continue to shape the future of digital fashion and consumer interaction.

On December 2nd, 2023, the fashion world turned its eyes to Los Angeles, California, as Balenciaga unveiled its Fall 2024 collection in a city known for its eclectic style and cultural influence. This marked a significant moment for the storied fashion house, as it was the first time a Balenciaga show graced the City of Angels. Amidst the array of innovative designs was the exclusive the 10XL Sneaker.

The 10XL Sneaker is the latest footwear innovation from Balenciaga, a brand synonymous with pushing the boundaries of design and redefining modern luxury. As the name suggests, the sneaker takes the concept of exaggeration to new heights—or, more accurately, to new lengths and widths. It embodies the Balenciaga ethos of dramatic proportions and shapes, which has become a signature of the brand under the creative direction of Demna Gvasalia.

Available in two select colorways—white/black/grey and blue/grey/black—the 10XL Sneaker presents a bold visual statement that encapsulates both the brand’s avant-garde approach and the urban sensibility of its Los Angeles backdrop. The exclusive release of these sneakers ensures their status as coveted items among fashion enthusiasts and collectors alike.

In addition to the 10XL Sneaker, the show also introduced a range of exclusive release items that further cemented Balenciaga’s commitment to unique collaborations and luxury reinterpretations of everyday objects. Among these were leather and paper tote bags, jerseys, caps, and aprons created in partnership with Erewhon, the upscale L.A.-based grocery store that has become a cultural phenomenon in its own right.

The event saw the debut of the Le Cagole Tote XL, an oversized iteration of the already popular bag, and No Logo jersey pieces that offer a minimalist yet chic aesthetic. The collaboration extended to high jewellery realized with the expertise of Jacob & Co., known for their exquisite craftsmanship and opulent designs. These pieces reflect the spirit of American youth culture, infused with a “Made in the USA” sense of luxury, bridging streetwear sensibilities with high-end glamour.

We are obsessed with the ELF x TIME slippers as much as the 2003 beloved movie! The real pièce de résistance of the design is a bright red feather which is neatly tucked into the stretch laces, a nod to our favorite elf. It bears Buddy the Elf’s famous quote, “Treat every day like Christmas.” This phrase serves as a constant reminder to appreciate every moment of our lives, a philosophy deeply  aligned at TIME Slippers.

The best part about these slippers is their unique appeal to a traditional sneaker silhouette but with an innovative collapsible heel giving it added functionality. Ryan Dougherty, Founder of TIME Slippers, expressed his pride in the creativity of his team. In a footwear industry where innovation can be challenging, the team at TIME Slippers continually strives to produce new comforts that delight their customers year after year.

The feather is not permanently attached, offering a dual functionality and can be detached from the slippers and used as holiday décor, a piece that can bring cheer to your home for years to come.

Dougherty also highlighted the joy of working with Warner Bros. Discovery and Elf. “And what better brand and property to work with than Warner Bros. Discovery and Elf?” he said. The collaboration stems from the beloved film Elf, which, even two decades later, remains cherished and relevant around the globe. The resulting product is a clever blend of the film’s humor and charm with TIME Slippers’ commitment to comfort and style. A perfect gift for the millennial in your life who grew up with Buddy.

UGG® has emerged not only as a purveyor of comfort and luxury but also as a champion of inclusivity and diversity. The UGG x Telfar collaboration is a testament to the brand’s bold heritage and its desire to push the boundaries of conventional fashion. Telfar Clemens, the founder of the eponymous, unisex fashion label Telfar, is renowned for his progressive designs that challenge gender norms and promote inclusivity. This partnership marries UGG’s classic comfort with Telfar‘s avant-garde aesthetic, creating a collection that resonates with a diverse audience and celebrates self-expression.

Where brand and reputation must carefully navigate the world of cancel culture and public perception, the UGG x Telfar collaboration stands as a statement of solidarity with black-owned businesses and many equity seeking groups. 2020 marked the tragic killing of George Floyd it also prompted the fashion community to look introspectively. While many major retailers and businesses were handing out grants and simply walking away from the cause, there remained few brands committed to strategically investing in equity deserving groups through partnerships and community engagement. UGG has since cultivated a sense of belonging for their audience and continues to amplify underserved voices, ensuring that multi-hyphenate creators can share stories that foster self-discovery long into the future.

UGG’s purpose-driven approach extends beyond collaborations and community initiatives. As UGG continues to honor its origin story—a tale that began with a surfer’s dream to create sheepskin footwear—it remains steadfast in its pledge to make products crafted to last, with quality construction and responsible materialization at the core of its creations. UGG and Telfar continue to redefine the sartorial landscape, they also set a new standard for what it means to be a brand with a conscience in the 21st century.

In an era where online shopping is the expectation, consumers can  now enjoy an on-demand shopping experience. JD Sports, globally renowned sports fashion retailer, has announced a trailblazing partnership with the leading grocery technology company in North America, Instacart (NASDAQ: CART). This collaboration marks a significant leap forward in providing customers with swift, convenient shopping experiences for their favorite footwear and apparel products.

JD Sports and Finish Line will now offer same-day delivery from over 500 stores across the nation via the Instacart App and website. This makes JD Sports one of the first sports-fashion retail partners to leverage Instacart’s cutting-edge technologies. Consumers will now have access to more than 16,000 products, including popular athletic footwear and apparel brands like Nike, Jordan, adidas, Puma, and more, all available for delivery in as fast as an hour.

Kristin Matter, VP Digital at JD Sports, expressed her excitement at the launch of this partnership. “We are taking our omni-channel strategy to new heights, providing customers with an unparalleled shopping experience, focused on convenience,” she said. “Customers can now browse our extensive range of sneakers, apparel, and accessories on Instacart and have their selections swiftly delivered on the same day from the comfort of their homes. This collaboration signifies our commitment to meeting the evolving needs of our valued customers, ensuring they can enjoy a seamless and efficient shopping experience.”

Traditionally, JD Sports and Finish Line have provided various convenient shopping options such as online ordering for in-store pickup and shipping. However, the introduction of online ordering through the Instacart App takes convenience to a whole new level. Customers can now browse thousands of products and have them delivered right to their doorstep in as little time as an hour. They can easily select their preferred styles, colors, and sizes before adding items to their cart while shopping on the Instacart App.

Blake Wallace, Senior Director of Retail Partnerships at Instacart, expressed pride in partnering with JD Sports. “For more than 40 years, JD Sports has been a leader in offering top-tier brands that inspire customers,” he said. “We’re proud to partner with JD Sports for same-day delivery via Instacart, elevating their e-commerce strategy and catering to the evolving needs of customers. Whether it’s back-to-school needs or holiday gifts, customers can now have them delivered in as fast as an hour.”

This strategic partnership between JD Sports and Instacart is a testament to how companies are constantly adapting and innovating to meet the ever-evolving needs of customers in the digital age. It sets a new precedent for retail partnerships, offering unprecedented convenience and efficiency in online shopping. The future of the sports-fashion retail industry looks brighter than ever, with JD Sports leading the charge in transforming customer experiences.

The Jackal II BOA is a highly competent and multi-faceted Mountain Running® shoe, designed to cater to diverse running needs, from short spurts to extended marathons. Its defining feature is the incorporation of the BOA® Fit System that contributes to a precision fit, which can be micro-adjusted while on the go. This dual dial performance fit solution promotes speed enhancement and improves ankle stability, especially crucial when traversing technical sections of trails. We took to the hills to test it out for ourselves and here’s what we found!

Fit

The protective upper section of the performance shoe is noteworthy for its resilience and adaptability. It possesses an ariaprene collar and tongue, which are designed through a toxin-free, water-based lamination process, suggesting an environmentally conscious approach by the manufacturers. It was very comfortable to wear and super easy to slip on. It’s a snug yet comfortable fit around the ankle and I can honestly say, the years of heels have done a number on my ankles so the added support was certainly welcomed.

Comfort

Another significant component of the mountain running shoe is its midsole that ingeniously blends Eva and Infinitoo™ PU inserts. This combination seems to strike the right balance between comfort and stability, ensuring that runners do not have to compromise one for the other. The shoe’s outsole, made of dual compound Frixion® XT 2.0 rubber with varied lug depths, enhances traction and durability. I found La Sportiva Jackal II BOA to be highly agile in my experience and given the flexibility to adjust fit and tension with the L6 dial These features should make the Jackal II BOA robust and reliable across different terrains and under varying weather conditions. It’s noteworthy that despite all these features, it weighs just 9.5oz, making it a relatively lightweight but high performance shoe.

Utility

The Jackal II BOA also offers a micro-adjustable fit and quick release L6 dial, crucial for runners who require swift adjustments during their runs. Simply turn the dial clockwise to tighten the lace, then pull the dial out to release tension. Another amazing feature is that the quality and durability of the shoe are guaranteed, which is a vital consideration for long-distance runners who need their footwear to withstand heavy and continued usage. As a citizen of the PNW, the performance of the shoe was subjected to a multitude of elements and we can attest to all weather and terrain conditions. Isn’t that the best part about the west coast?

Overall, the Jackal II BOA performed as a well-rounded, versatile, and performance-oriented Mountain Running® shoe. The innovative design elements, with emphasis on comfort and stability, including the environmentally conscious manufacturing processes make it a strong contender in the realm of performance shoes. However, as with any footwear product, its true value can only be ascertained through individual user experience across varied environmental conditions and usage patterns.

Australian footwear brand FRANKIE4 has been making major strides since its inception in 2010. The podiatrist Caroline McCulloch founded the brand with a substantial following on its unique blend of customized comfort and beautifully crafted shoes. Now, the award-winning brand is set to make an even bigger splash in North America by opening its first permanent retail store at the Bellevue Collection, located outside of Seattle, WA.

This exciting development follows the success of their pop-up location in Bellevue Square last spring and summer. FRANKIE4 embodies a signature combination of style and support unique to the Pacific Northwest.

Using LWG-certified Gold and Silver-rated leathers aligns FRANKIE4 with the growing demand for ethical sourcing and sustainability in the fashion industry. With a commitment to quality materials and craftsmanship and the brand’s distinct aesthetic, FRANKIE4 has earned over 100K 5-star reviews.

Among the brand’s supporters are celebrities like Kelly Clarkson, who lauded the brand’s boots as akin to ‘walking on clouds.’ Such endorsements underscore the brand’s appeal to a diverse range of women seeking stylish, comfortable footwear.

The new Seattle store, designed by JPC Architects, presents a bright, airy, and elevated shopping experience without pretentiousness. The space includes subtle nods to its Australian roots, such as curated coffee table books by renowned Australian photographer, Kara Rosenlund. An abundance of live plants and greenery adorn the store’s modern interior, reflecting the brand’s global design concept centered on wellness and customer well-being.

Hilary McMillan, Frankie4’s Group Chief Executive Officer, emphasizes the importance of education in their approach. She explains, “We spend a lot of time educating our team on the materials we use, why we use them, and common foot pathologies that women will come into the store with.”

Their mission is to change the perception that foot pain is ‘normal’ for women and promote supportive footwear as an accessible solution.

FRANKIE4’s thoughtful approach extends to the shopping experience in their stores. Each of the 9 Australian franchises, and now the Bellevue branch, offers expert fittings to ensure a truly customized experience. The brand’s Sole Saver Pack allows the fitting of shoes to be adjusted on the spot, accommodating different foot types, and further enhancing the personalized service.