#lacelord

[revamp26]

Throwback Thursday: The 9th Jordan

Pictured, are some of my fondest memories that relate to the Jordan 9 when it originally released, 1993-94. Back then there were no numbers (ex. Jordan 1,3, etc.), each box just read "Air Jordan." There were no nicknames, just "The NEW Jordans." No hype prices, we were just hype AF to have a pair. To add, we really didn't care how many people had them on at the same time; because the focus was on showcasing our individual styles, while the shoes were just that new icing on the cake. Keywords: Individual Style... let's bring that back to the culture. This picture displays the same Jordan 9 worn many different ways by some of the trendsetters from the 90s, even Jordan himself. We all love sneakers, but most have strayed away from originality and style. These days, most think that having a huge sneaker collection equates to being a style icon.... no. Continue to collect your sneaks, but put a little more effort into the ankle up. Find YOUR lane.

Stay Laced,

👟LACE.LORD👟

[revamp26]

IMO: NIKE VAPORMAX PLUS

     After the year 2000 came in, Nike has made multiple attempts to mash up the old with the new by fusing classic silhouettes with more new designs and technology. Some were cool, but a lot were hideous; however, it seems that Nike has recently found their formula. That “formula” has led them to the the recently released VaporMax Plus. The name says it all, this is indeed a hybrid of 1998’s Air Max Plus on the upper, with the new VaporMax sole.

     On the contrary, I see more vintage Air Maxes than the ones listed as I glance at the VaporMax Plus. As far as the shape, the ridges on the side panels, and the placement of the Nike check on the heel, these also remind me of the Air Metal Max from 1997-98. Trust me, if you’re of age you will remember them if you see them so click the hyperlink. To add, I also see hints of the  Air Zoom Seismic B, but that is a given being that they were like the trash cousins of the Air Max Plus.

     The VaporMax Plus released on January 25th, giving male and female sneakerheads a couple of colorways to choose from. Since the OG “Sunset” Air Max Plus and I have history, I think my favorites are the “Sunsets.” To be honest, it’s dope to see it tastefully done on a more modernized silhouette.  What’s your favorite colorway thus far? Check out some detailed images after the jump and let me know! 

 Stay Laced,

👟LACE.LORD👟

[revamp26]

PURE

     It would be dope if I could travel back in time to witness people's reactions to the collabs & updated sneakers of today. The plot twist would be the fact that people's reactions would not be based on the clout the designer/public figure has, what famous person wore them, the aftermarket value, nor the hype around the sneaker. The response would be a "pure" like or dislike toward a brand name sneaker.  Of course, each era had their own styles and trends; but as the years pass, I've seen individuality decrease more and more. It's to the point now where people are paying somebody's rent for sneakers they'd only rate 2.5 out of 5 stars if no hype was attached to it. This is truly cancerous to the sneaker culture. For one, you're in the way of anyone that genuinely likes the sneaker. Two, you are a part of the hype (that WE control by the way) that makes it hard for people who actually want the sneaker to afford them.

     When I look through my sneaker collection, I can honestly say that I love EVERY pair. I never bought anything based off the hype around it, who wore it first, or because it may have been a status symbol. I have to have that genuine love the first time I see something before I hunt for it. That brings me to this, if you take away the hype, the name(s) attached to it, the attention you will receive, and all of the other superficial things, would you still cop? Do you even like the way they feel and look on your feet? If the Yeezy Boosts were Big Baller Brand Boosts, would you still like the overall look of it? Do you have anything to wear with it? Ask yourself questions of this nature before you cop sneaks to have a "clean slate." Be pure.