The Life and Culture of Kicks

Sports

In Sneaker News: Olympic Sneaker Wars

There is no way that sneaker companies are fighting for the chance to be seen at the Olympics with Olympians wearing their gear (I’m not a swimmer, but I bet everybody and their mother will want a Speedo… just not too sure how far that will carry). There can’t be a battle for the Olympic floor.

Or can it?

According to Black Book Mag (via the Wall Street Journal) Nike and adidas seem to be at war with each other  from sports such as fencing to weightlifting and of course track and basketball. adidas is the official sportswear sponsor of the Games, but that has not stopped Nike from making sneaker for the Olympics (obviously lol)

According to the article, the Nike has 28 different shoes and adidas has 27 (come on adidas, pick up the slack!) of which include table tennis sneakers and slippers for gymnastics… lol I have to post those if I can find them.

HAWT!!! Its not for me, but maybe its for you hmmmm? They need to make a street version of this boot! And what’s crazy about this is that it has zoom technology. I don’t know about you, but it just seems weird to have zoom tech in a boot like this.

You know the best part of this post? A link to a slide show from the WSJ!!! LMAO Who doesn’t love this kind of stuff?


Eastbay Is In The Olympic Spirit: Olympic Gear

Air Jordan Olympian 2008 is one of the things you can get to be in the Olympic mood… fashion wise lol

If you want some Olympic gear, here is one place you can get some. I did a search on Eastbay for the Olympics and got 4 pages of stuff. From sneakers to shoes to t-shirts to jewelery, Eastbay seems to have something related to the Olympics.

I’m not sure about having Olympic shot glasses… but everything else looks cool. I mean just take a look at this:

How cool is that (a little pricey though for 2 pens).


Olympics T-Shirts: 2008 Basketball Tees

I would like to go back-to-school with this! lol

This t-shirt looks AWESOME!!! I may even buy a couple of them even though I still feel that t-shirts should only cost 15 or 20 bucks, not 30 to 70 dollars, but it looks good enough to pay the amount they want. $39.99 and it won’t be available until the Olympics is over/almost over (08/22/08)

3 different styles available. And you may wanna look at this too. Nice.


Olympic Sneakers and Shoes: adiStar Weightlifting

Hope your wallet is ready: 200 Dollars for these.

I’m having a tough time finding out who is wearing what and so forth, but at least I know that somebody is wearing these. For weightlifting shoes, these things look hot. I would get them just to walk around in although I am sure that they are not as cushioned as megabounce.

I have a pair of Nike Shox that I use in the gym when I’m more or less stationary doing lifts and pushes (when I’m running I choose my Air Max 360 Rejuvenation or my adidas Megabounce “Rainbow Brights” (more on that later)). Did I mention that I have not gone to the gym yet even though I paid for the whole year? Did I mention that the year is up and I’m going to pay for the next year and have not planned on when I am going to go?

LMAO

Here is the low down on the adiStar Wightlifting:

adiStar Weightlifting
Power from beneath, so you can focus on reaching the top of the podium. These award winning Olympic weightlifting shoes feature an extended TORSION® SYSTEM offering essential midfoot stability, and ClimaCool® keeps your feet cool and comfortable.
  • ClimaCool® provides 360-degree cooling for the entire foot
  • Polyurethane-coated leather in midfoot and forefoot areas for a durable, form-fitting hold
  • Extended TORSION® SYSTEM bar for heel and midfoot stability
  • Midfoot strap for improved performance and support
  • Wooden heel wedge for stability and durability
  • Imported

Source: Shop adidas

You got to love it. The cost? 200 Dollars!!! That is allot of weight lifting for my wallet (and they aint even Eggplant Foamposites!!! lol) If you have the fashion sense and want the optimum in weight lifting ability, you are gonna get what the Olympians are wearing… and that is the end of my commercial.


Non-Sneaker & Shoe news: 12,000 Calories A Day for Micheal Phelps

When you run, swim and just all around move 6 days a week, you need energy and that is what one gold winner does; at the rate of 12,000 calories a day.

I remember when I was running track I could eat anything at any time and still want more. I can only imagine what someone who swims through water would want to eat. I know one thing, carbs, carbs and more carbs is what one needs to eat.

What does he eat?

Breakfast:
3 fried egg sandwiches with cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, fried onions, and mayonnaise
2 cups of coffee
a 5 egg omelet
a bowl of grits
3 slices of French toast with powdered sugar
3 chocolate chip pancakes

And that is just breakfast. Imagine he does all of that and is 6′ 4″ and weighs 185 pounds (I’m 6’2″ and weigh 238 pounds LMAO). I guess you need all of that for being the winningnest (real word?) Olympic medal winner EVAAARRRR!!!

Does this mean that the movie Aquaman will actually become a reality due to all this swimming fever? Ladies, he is single.

As seen on WNBC news New York


Olympic Sneakers and Shoes: Mens adiStar Sailing

Here in NYC there was a “special” report on sneakers. It looks like I wasn’t the only one who wanted to take a look at what the people in the Olympic are wearing on their feet. Anyway here is a sneaker that the row boat team (or somebody who is suppossed to be on the water) will be wearing. No laces, all zippers lol

Here are the details from the adidas shop site:

adiStar Sailing
Set sail single-handedly in these shoes that are light and supportive so you can ride the water. A neoprene upper with TPU bands keeps you in command. The wind never met such a match.
  • 3mm neoprene upper provides warmth, unrestricted movement and sock-like feel during summer sailing
  • Thin, welded elastic TPU bands for additional comfortable support without movement limitation
  • Optimal for RS:X, Laser, Finn Olympic classes
  • Speed Heel featuring RadialCurve contours, sculpted heel and midfoot for secure grip on wet decks
  • Sticky forefoot rubber cupsole with RadialCurve for superior multidirectional water traction
  • Imported

Source: Shop adidas

Its not a sneaker I think people will wear on the streets of NYC, but it does have style. Plus, its an odd thing to add to your sneaker collection, but that’s what makes you different. :)

The adiStar Sailing costs $75. Plenty of sizes available… of course lol


THE OLYMPICS 2008 IS HERE: 08-08-08 and The Sneakers Look Great

(also see the Air Jordan Olympia at Sporting News.com)

Olympic 2008 Opening Ceremonies

The Olympics have started and soon we will be seeing all the athletes footwear styles and designs. What will they wear, whats on it, why, where can you get it, and so forth will be here (to some extent… I’m only one guy blogging for fun here lol)

I know I won’t be able to watch everything like I used to, but I will be taping stuff and watching the basketball game, swimming, beach volleyball, cycling, and track.

By the way, isn’t this funny? YouTube will have the Olympics, but just not in the US Boooooooo!!!! Go ahead and give it a shot, but for those in the us (that includes NYC lol), it won’t work.

Oh and check out this site I found. Nice.


On Sale: Trying To Figure Out Which HyperDunk To Get

On Eastbay.com for 109 Bucks… great colorway!!!

I really like the Hyperdunk, but I need a ice colorway. To me this sneaker needs a really cool colorway to go with it. I think most colorways will look horrible on this sneaker, but the one pictured above is hot! Apparently many people think so because this one is all sold out except for one size.

I love the price point for the Hyperdunk. Its a sneaker anyone can get and feel ok playing in too because your not marking up 170 dollar sneakers.

Eastbay got more colors if you like. I sort of like the green “hulk” ones. Can’t wait to see the other colorways. Olympics is coming yall!!!


OMG!!! New Balance Classic (at least to me) W801 All Terrian

Well, this is a blast from the past… and it will set you back $75.00

I think my Mom will be very happy to know that these are available again (either this is a re-release or just left overs from back in the day, I am not sure). I remember when I bought my sister, my mom and me these sneakers. I wanted a sneaker that we all could wear and considering that NIKE, ADIDAS AND REEBOK continue to not make sneakers for people with different feet (narrow, normal, widths) and these seemed to fit the bill.

The funny thing is that the NB 801 is that I didn’t like it too much. It was just too hard on the ground. I felt like I was walking on a rock lol, but my sister and Mom loved them (especially my Mom). Don’t get me wrong, the sneaker was nice, but it was a real all terrain sneaker. I never ran cross country in them but I am VERY sure that they would have protected my feet against the rocks, tree roots, hard frozen ground, and so forth that basically is Cross Country running. They were not for casual walking around in for me and my feet.

Nevertheless, I think Mom will be very happy to get these. I just hope they do the trick when it comes to her feet and knees. I really want Mom to get a cushion sneaker instead but maybe this will do the trick until we can find something weather proof for walking in.

Here are some details from the Zappos.com site about the sneaker:

Detail of the New Balance 801

No leather materials used in construction.
The original “All Terrain” running model built with ABZORB® cushioning heel and forefoot and an aggressively lugged outsole.
Designed for under-pronators to neutral runners.
ABZORB® heel and forefoot provides maximum shock absorption.
C-Cap® midsole- lightweight compression molded EVA provides cushioning and flexibility.
Aggressive solid rubber outsole provides long-wearing durability and traction.
Water resistant Synthetic/Mesh upper keeps feet dry in inclement weather conditions.
Strobel Lasted SL-1.
Shoe weighs 10.6 oz.
Not sure what some of the above words mean, or want to see how this product was measured? Look it up in our online glossary! (they have an online glossary!! GREAT!!!)

If you want these sneaker, then head over to Zappos.com for them. They cost $75.00 which isn’t too bad. Zappos has some more New Balance classics if you are interested.


Darn Those Sneakers Messin’ Up My Toes!!!

As seen from Luxist.com and originally found at YogaPro.com

OK, let me be the first to admit that I have problems with my toes. They come in just like in the picture. For whatever reason, I just didn’t do anything about it, until I took a job that I had to be on my feet all day.

Now I am paying attention.

Here is a quote from Luxist.com about the seriousness of this issue:

We at Luxist love Manolo and Jimmy and Stuart – their shoes are to die for. And sometimes the pain from a beauty like this makes toes feel like dying too. Here’s a solution: YogaToes. Basically YogaToes promises to give toes and feet a good stretch after they’ve been squashed in shoes all day and at the same time prevent icky and unattractive toe and bunion problems, something that’s important at this time of year if feet are to be sandal-ready!

Luxist seems to focus on the ladies… but guys, lets face it, we need them too. Having your toes point to your pinky toe is a problem. I am wondering if I can run on these feet of mine. I guess I will find out in a few weeks when I start running.

Anyway, I am sure there are plenty of people (male and female) who will need this. I think I may get it once I confirm that it will actually be good for my feet.


The Nike HyperDunk NOW in ALL BLACK

Sneakernews.com has just shown the all black sleek looking Hyperdunks that Kobe uses to jump over pools and speeding cars (LOL just not to win NBA championships though…. I had to go there lol)

They say that it will be released sometime in July and you may want to take a look at Footlocker (which also means that Eastbay will have them too).

For more shots, take a click and head over to Sneakernews.com

Oh and I guess you want a link to that Shaq freestyle about Kobe… yeah, its all related.


Maybe It’s My Fault – New Brand Jordan Commercial

I think the video says allot. I’ll admit, as corny as it sounds, I find myself a little (ok allot) inspired. When you are trying to get to a place in your life where you are doing what you want, how you want it and where you want it, sometimes you forget that on your way to success there WILL be many failures and non-goal reaching. Heck, those failures had BETTER be something you learned from otherwise it is a real failure rather than a set-back.

Yeah, you got to work hard, get up in the morning, exercise, read, write, study and so forth. Most importantly, you got to recover from those failures setbacks, learn from them and keep going toward your finish line.

It sure does look easy when you see some of those rich and famous people; those sports stars and rock stars, but the truly successful work real hard at it.

How many shots did Jordan miss? How many turnovers? Didn’t he want to play baseball really bad? How many business ventures did he go into? Does anybody here remember Micheal Jordan restaurant? Is that even around anymore (there is still one in Grand Central Station in NYC)?

First saw this video on The Shoe Game.com

Become Legendary!!!

PS: Being legendary doesn’t necessarily mean that everybody knows your name. You can be legendary to your friends, your family, and your community.


Michael Jordans Greatest Dunks

From PuttinUon

Saw this on YouTube.com and I just had to post it. it is missing one dunk… then again its not really a dunk so i guess that is why it wasn’t on there (but it still was a GREAT SHOT).  When I finally finish my Air Jordan page here on Sneakers & Shoes, I will be sure to put this on there.

PuttinUon put up allot of info for the video… here is a clip:

Michael Jeffrey Jordan (born February 17, 1963) is a retired American professional basketball player and active businessman. He is widely considered the greatest basketball player of all time, and was among the most effectively marketed athletes of his generation. Jordan was instrumental in popularizing the National Basketball Association (NBA) around the world in the 1980s and 1990s.

The video doesn’t dissapoint. Oh and I am sure you are wondering what shot I am talking about that I though should have been on the video (even though its not actually a dunk)

Well here it is:

BEST ANIMATED GIF EVAR

Best animated gif EVAR!!! LOL

Good lawd, i wish I could remember why he switched hands on that jump. he was so high in the air, i don’t think there was anybody even close to the ball or his hand. He must have saw something to make him think that he needed to switch.


2008 NCAA Finals: Super Mario Chalmers Shot (which sneaker won?)

I am so lazy right now. I can’t see the shoes of the winners (Kansas… and I didn’t know I could watch NCAA  games on their dot com site). I believe it is adidas. I am sure sneakernews.com will come up with some pictures of the final game in their NBA Feet Post… yes I know its the NCAA not the NBA but I am just hoping that they do it.

Anyway, I guess in this final four, adidas comes out the winner, but in this contest on Nicekicks/Complex, adidas isn’t even in the running lol. I predict that the AJ11′s will win.

So I do wonder, what type of sneakers the champs wore? if it is adidas, what the name of the sneaker?


On Sale: Nike Experience + on Eastbay

Nike Experience + Shox

 Nike Experience + on Eastbay

Price: $139.99

Wow.

I have been looking for something that will work with Nike+ and its iPod system along with a Nike sneaker that will really support my workout routine (like I have one). I have a pair of Shox (one of the first that came out) and truly planned on working out in them at the gym. I think they are great, from what I have done in them, for jumping jacks, walking in, lifting weights and such activities that are not like running or jogging. I mean, I guess you could run in them, but I try to run on my toes and not on my heels so what good would Shox do for me while running or jogging?

Nevertheless, I like this new “Complete new cushioning system combines Air Max™ cushioning, Nike Shox™ technology and Zoom Air™ to provide a unique experience under the foot” thing.  I especially like the Nike+ thing. I just need an iPod and I will be ready to go.

The bad news: What the hell is up with the guy colors??? That picture above you see is one of the 2 colorways for the ladies. What does the guys colorway look like? It looks like this…. WACK!!!!

So other than the guys colorway being boring, this sneaker is the bomb! Can’t wait to see if its worth the hype by trying one on one of these days.


Reebok Hex Ride Rally Is The new Running Shoe

Reebok Hex Ride Rally on Eastbay

The Eastbay Presentation Page for the Reebok Hex Ride Rally

 

With everybody putting out retros of stuff that came out years ago and limiting what new, here we have something new. Using the Hex (hexalite I presume) to keep the sneakers light and for structure. Here’s the description from Eastbay:

The Reebok Hex Ride Rally running shoe features a mesh and synthetic upper with PU casting that adds shape, breathability and support. Removable sockliner accommodates orthotics. Hex Ride tech provides lightweight, airspring cushioning. Lightweight TPU shank offers smooth heel-to-toe transition. High abrasion rubber outsole gives durability. Wt. 12.5 oz.

I do wonder how this will hold up on the streets of NYC. If i step on something will I blow a hex? Well, if Nike can prove me wrong with the Air Max 360, I guess i should give these a chance too.

Reebok Hex Ride Rally

The price for these sneakers is $84.99. They look pretty good (at least the midsole and sole) although I do wonder if there is anything reflective on this sneaker in case you are running at dusk just when the sun goes down. They don’t have all sizes available but they do become available on 3/31/08. Not sure why some sizes are available on Eastbay while others aren’t… go figure.


Teh Dance Sneaker – Bloch Adult Mesh Sneaker

On Amazon.com – Adult Mesh Sneaker

Bloch Adult Mesh Sneaker

Do not pay attention to the legs in the picture… just look at the footwear. I tell you this is the most interesting sneakers I have seen in a while. Allot of sneaker makers make it known that you need a very hard thingy in the middle of your foot. I have to agree with them. But is you are going dancing then i guess you might want to give these a try.

 Bloch Adult Mesh Sneaker in White and Bronze

(these look nice)

 Considering that I do think you might need support that special area of your foot that doesn’t bend to well, this sneaker might not be one of those you buy to just walk in or something like that. When i was in HighSchool many moons ago, I would have loved the idea of such a big “cut” out of the bottom of the sneaker. it was all the rage at HighSchool to have these groove cuts in your sneaker 9funny what teens can be into).Here is a description:

Bloch’s mesh dance sneaker with DRT (Dynamic Resistance Technology) features a dancer-specific, high arch last for true fit and comfort. Made of genuine suede and lightweight breathable mesh, with a Dri-Lex heel and tongue.This stylish Unisex sneaker features a combination leather, suede and mesh upper. Non marking split sole bottom. Spin spot to help increase control and balance. Flat toe box for easier toe stands. Available in Black or White. (certain sizes in White unavailable see sizes) Size 13 and 14 additional $2.00. Theres NO sneaker on the market for dance better. Great for Jazz, Hip Hop Ballroom Dance or any type of dancing.

 Bloch Adult Mesh Sneaker in bent form

Get ready for some ballroom dancing hip hop country danc-o-thon. You see, here at sneakers and shoes, we really get at this sneaker game! For the grand price of 34.99 now you can dance too! The only place I have seen these is Amazon.com but maybe its somewhere else. I refuse to search Google for it so you are on your own.


Best Sneakers For Your Sport – Forbes.com

Best Sneakers For Your Sport – Forbes.com

 Adidas Mega Burst Running Shoe - White

Who can pass up a sneaker acticle about fitness? Here is a big quote from Forbes:

 

If something has inspired you to start a fitness regimen or get back into a sport you once played, do yourself a favor. As you prepare for that first outing, skip the trip to your closet for your two-year-old pair of sneakers.

Not only are they broken down,but they were probably never meant to support the type of motion you’re about to subject them to, whether it’s a long hike, a game of tennis or marathon training.

If you really want to succeed–and stave off runner’s knee, shin splints and tendonitis, not to mention the cost of rehabbing these injuries–you need the right shoes, says Gale Bernhardt, a coach for the 2004 Olympics’ U.S. mens’ and womens’ triathalon teams and a columnist for Active.com, an online community for people passionate about sports and recreational activities.

I saw sneaker and boot brand names that I never heard before in my life. As a person who ran track for like 7 years, I did reconize a couple… but the rest LMAO!Forbes is a busines/rich/upermiddle class destination so I would guess that there would be names of companies who make footwear products would be somewhat unknown, but I only recognized 2 or 3. And guess what people; NIKE was hardly mentioned lol


200 Dollars Of Craziness: The Air Force 25 League Pack CC

 Air Force 25 League Pack CC – Eastbay

Air Force 25 League Pack CC

Price: 199.99 (plenty of sizes and colors left)

 

 If you have a team color you will most likely find something you will like (and will match) in the League Pack. Now the question is would you (or better yet, the whole team) fork out 200 beans for the new age Air Force? Don’t get me wrong, I am soooooo waiting for a more affordable Air Force one with the new tech, but the price is killin me. I wanted the Charles Barkleys (the freshest sneaker of 2008… hmmm you know what, Im gonna make a list of the freshest sneakers and shoes for 08!!!) so badly but just could not afford the cost at the time. I love how they treat the sole and mid-sole.

 Air Force 25 League Pack CC… again…

(more…)


New Orleans Basketball All Star Game AND Its All Star Sneakers

NBA All Star Sneakers 2008 – The Shoe Game

Allen Iverson All Star

Price: 99.99 – Currently on Eastbay

Oh and by the way, Eastbay has this special All Star Game shopping spot tht you might want to check out – and it oddly does notinclude the Air Jordan 23 All Star…

 

Now that is some interesting details for the Allen Iverson sneaker. The Shoe Game has made a great post on the sneakers that make the All Star game line up. They put up the line up for the East and the line up for the West…. personally I prefer the East colors:

Air Jordan XV SE All Star

I wanna know when the Air Jordan 14.5 will be on sale? I love it! And the details:

Air Jordan XV SE All Star DETAIL

How much do I prefer the East colors? I like it so much that the Lebron V that I do not like for the most part (its a style thing not a performance thing) actually look ok to me.

Some other East sneakers I look forward to seeing:

  • Air Jordan 14.5
  • Air Jordan 23 All Star
  • Allen Iverson 13
  • Flight Windmill
  • Zoom BB II

But I do like a couple of the West sneakers (and who decided that orange/brown would be a good look?). Here is a SMALL list:

  • Flight Windmill
  • … I think that is it

Here are a couple of highlights from the All Star dunk contest:

Superman is in the building! Dwight Howard Wins it… but its gotta be the shoes.

NBA Top 10 for February 16 2008

Sae this post in you favorites cause I will be updating it tomorrow.


On Sale: Reebok ATR Vertical III

Reebok Men’s ATR Vertical III
White/Red/Silver/Black  – Eastbay

 Reebok ATR Vertical from Eastbay

 

 Not too bad. As I posted before, I am not too into Reebok, but I like these (I don’t like every color though).I think these are very court ready. here is the descritpion from Eastbay:

The Reebok ATR Vertical III All Star basketball shoe provides stability and support. DMX™ foam offers cushioning. PlayDry® lining for moisture management. IMEVA midsole gives cushioning. Padded foam sockliner delivers comfort and cushioning. Medial TPU post brings stability. Herringbone outsole adds traction. Wt. 15.6 oz.

Plenty of sizes currently available.


On Sale: Reebok Infinity Mid on Eastbay

Reebok Men’s Infinity Mid
White/Orange – Eastbay

Reebok Infinity Mid

Price: $89.99 (might find it on sale for 59.99)

I’m not too big of a fan of Reebok (not sure why really… the same for Fila), I really do like these. The huge Reebok symbol is a turn off BUT since the sneaker is so simple and the logo is also done well on the sneaker, it just comes off well over all.

This is the first time I have seen these and it would seem that they are an old style. I went back to Eastbay to find it and I had the hardest time, even though a few hours earlier they had 4 different styles and plenty of sizes.

If your looking for a pair but in black, take a look here. They don’t look as stunning but its still cool.

Is that insta-pump technology?


The Super Bowl Had One Sneaker Commercial – Under Armor

  Under Armour Men’s Proto Power Trainer
White/Silver/Black/Red – Eastbay

 Under Armour Men’s Proto Power Trainer

Price: 99.99

 While the commercial for this sneaker (and some other stuff that Under Armour sells) came out during the most watched Super Bowl ever… 2nd most popular TV show ever… and I was impressed.

Here is what Eastbay has to say about this piticular sneaker:

The Under Armour Proto Power Trainer Mid is made for the performance athlete training for explosive power. Engineered synthetic upper with performance mesh that allows the hot air to escape away from the foot and cool air to come in. HeatGear® technology delivers cool, dry comfort with signature moisture transport and temperature regulation. DCE (Directional Cushioning Engineering). ArmourGuide directional TPU cradle guides the foot through athletic movements, providing stability, efficiency and total propulsion. ArmourBound proprietary material helps reduce foot-strike compression found in typical materials and provides superior rebound/energy return. ArmourPlastic strategically placed shock absorption zones expel impact, eliminating stresses on the ankle and lower leg. Lightweight, non-marking, multi-directional, rubber outsole.

The sneaker doesn’t come out until May 3′rd… I guess they wanted to get the biggest audience possible for their coming out party.


Vick’s two co-defendants to make plea deals! » Netscape.com

Vick’s two co-defendants to make plea deals! » Netscape.com

Only one word for this: WOW.

Related: Nike Suspends the Michael Vick V Sneaker

EDIT:

OHHHHHhhh lawd… now he is being sued for 63 Billion Dollars… yes, I am for real. Got the scoop from A Hot Mess. Oh and yes Al Qaeda is involved.


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