Sneakers Guide

Sneaker collecting is a popular hobby that has grown in popularity over the years. Collectors are interested in sneakers for various reasons, including their cultural significance, style, and historical value. If you're interested in starting a sneaker collection, this guide will provide you with the essential information you need to get started.

Master the lingo

Sneaker culture has its own unique vocabulary, with terms such as "silhouettes," "grails," "colourways," and "drops" that may be unfamiliar to newcomers. According to sneaker historian Mr Magdi Fernandes, it was the community and not the brands that created this universal language, with forums like NikeTalk, Crooked Tongues, and Sneaker Freaker leading the way. While the terminology can be overwhelming at first, we recommend you to immerse yourself in sneaker-related content providing by pionniers sneakers resellers as Kaikicks.uk or Stitch Sneakers that can help newcomers pick up the lingo by osmosis.
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Set Your Goals

Before starting a sneaker collection, it's essential to set your goals. Do you want to collect sneakers from a particular brand or style? Are you interested in collecting sneakers for personal enjoyment, investment purposes, or both? Knowing your goals will help you focus on what to collect and how to allocate your budget.

Do Your Research

Doing research is essential before buying any sneakers. You need to familiarize yourself with the different types of sneakers, brands, models, and colorways. Learn about the history and cultural significance of each sneaker, which can help you make informed buying decisions. You can find information on sneaker blogs, websites, and forums. Social media platforms like Instagram can also be a great resource to keep up-to-date with the latest sneaker trends and releases.

Determine Your Budget

Sneaker collecting can be an expensive hobby. Determine your budget and stick to it. Decide how much you want to spend on each pair and set a limit on the number of sneakers you want to collect. Keep in mind that some sneakers can appreciate in value over time, so investing in rare or limited edition pairs can potentially yield a return on investment.

Start Small

It's essential to start small when you begin collecting sneakers. Don't be tempted to buy expensive and rare sneakers right away. Instead, start with affordable and easily accessible pairs. This will help you build your collection gradually and gain knowledge and experience. You can also start with sneakers that have sentimental value, such as the sneakers you wore in high school or college.

Understand Authenticity

One of the most crucial aspects of sneaker collecting is authenticity. Familiarize yourself with the signs of authentic sneakers, such as the quality of the materials and the stitching, the placement of logos and trademarks, and the details on the shoebox. Learning about authenticity can help you avoid buying fake sneakers. It's important to be cautious when purchasing from resellers or online marketplaces, as there are many counterfeit sneakers in circulation.

Know Where to Buy

Buy from reputable sellers

There are many places to buy sneakers, such as online retailers, physical stores, and resellers. It's essential to know where to buy to get the best deals and avoid getting scammed. Make sure to buy from reputable sellers and retailers, always check their return policy and spend time getting testimonials from other buyers.

Join live auctions

Auctions allow you to have very attractive starting prices. On Voggt, live auctions can start at £1 on some limited edition sneakers or exclusive releases. This is a great opportunity to make good deals! Moreover, live shopping allows you to check the sneakers from all angles and to have an instant exchange with the sellers.

Store Your Sneakers Properly

Once you start collecting sneakers, it's essential to store them properly to maintain their condition. Avoid storing your sneakers in direct sunlight or humid areas, and use shoe trees to maintain their shape. You can also invest in sneaker storage solutions like clear boxes or display shelves.

Sneaker collecting is a fun and exciting hobby that requires knowledge, patience, and discipline. With the tips provided in this guide, you can start your sneaker collection and become a knowledgeable and successful sneaker collector. Happy collecting!

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