The sneaker world thrives on consumption and more specifically overconsumption. New sneakers come out on a daily basis and constantly restock, re-release, and retro. Anyone can find out when the next Air Jordans or Yeezys are coming out with a simple Google search. Finding balance in sneakers is difficult, but not impossible.
Consumption of Sneaker News and Stories
No longer a subculture, sneakers are constantly covered in the news and latest stories. Sneaker news is ubiquitous and new stories come instantly with the help of social media. Although instant news can be beneficial, there are downsides to consider as well.
Overconsumption of sneaker news is rather easy. One search for a particular pair leads to a search for another colorway which might lead to a story of PJ Tucker’s latest rare sneaker pickup. Sneaker photos, videos, opinions, reviews, shopping vlogs, and stories are in no shortage. Anyone can research sneakers and become knowledgeable rather quickly with all of the information on sneakers available on the internet.
While it is easier than ever to learn more about sneakers, more doesn’t always mean better. The sneaker world doesn’t need fifty plus of the same sneaker review on YouTube. At the same time, sneakers could vastly benefit from original stories and more independent opinions. Following the pack tends to be the theme and overall message of many sneaker stories and news topics in today’s sneaker world.
Consumption of sneaker news and stories must be consumed in moderation just like any other type of news. A full day of sneaker research won’t make an expert. Experience teaches more than consumption of the same old sneaker write ups. Intriguing and original sneaker stories obviously benefit sneakers immensely, but these unique and independent narratives are often underappreciated. Sneakers will become more genuine and wholesome when news and stories are’t manufactured and replicated on a constant basis.
Finding Balance in Sneaker Shopping
An endless supply of sneaker releases follows with countless opportunities for sneaker shopping. New retail, boutique, and secondhand stores pop up in new areas all the time. You could find yourself in the middle of nowhere in Montana and still not be far from a sneaker shop.
Sneaker shopping has evolved with the internet and more recently social media. Before the pandemic, countless stores were still having in-person releases on a weekly basis. Now, there might be one in-person drop out of every ten or so sneaker releases. The days of lining up and waiting for sneakers outside stores are dwindling and may be gone for good in the future.
It’s easier than ever to buy a pair of sneakers either in-person or online. Selections are endless and ads continually pop up like annoying flies. It’s essential to find a balance in sneaker shopping otherwise someone may find themselves with sneakers they rarely wear or might not even like to begin with.
FOMO (fear of missing out) is a huge deal in sneakers. After missing out on an initial drop, collectors and resellers all over rush to pay exorbitant prices for a particular pair. At the end of the day, more sneakers will come out in the near future. Sometimes it may be better to wait to find a pair that will be appreciated and worn regularly rather than making an impulsive sneaker purchase. Finding balance in sneaker shopping is all about delayed gratification and only buying what you truly appreciate.