Air Jordan 11 "72-10"

Lets check out a shoe that isn't destined to hit shelves (proverbially anyways. Jordan XI's don't sit on shelves very long, if at all, nowadays) for another 6 months, but that won't stop us from hyping up this year's Jordan XI holiday drop.

Dressed in a textured leather upper, as well as it's patented patent leather wraparound look, both in black, but the latter with an almost sparkly sheen to it. White midsole, along with a translucent sole to boot. Gym red accents in all the normal spots. Jordan insignia on the ankle, tongue, and lace tips.

In a kick style that almost duplicates the Space Jam XI's from a generation before (except not), these are sure to make for the next addition in many Jordan XI enthusiasts closets. At the paltry price of $220 nonetheless, you won't have to sell the house to get your hands on a pair. Until the resellers get their hands on all of them that is.

Bots be gone!!

72 and 10 is a great year for sure. En route to the 4th championship in the Jordan era to boot. Tell us, are you buying all the Jordan releases that are attempted adaptations at recalling Jordan's finest moments, or does it seem too "cash grabbish" to support?

The Jordan Alternate Collection destined for shelves next year

What does this picture above mean to you? Does it mean hours of pining for certain releases of numbered Jordans never before seen, until you ultimately shell out some figure at or near $200 to get your cold sweating palms on them finally? Yeah... that's what it means for most of us as well. So you aren't alone.

First things first. Check the numbers. I count 8 individual kicks in this grid. 2-pairs of Twos. 1-pair of Twelves. 2-pairs of Fours and (low-top) Fives, respectively. And 1-pair of Ones completes the pic.

While many (if not all) of these kicks have not seen the light of day before, you can see where many of their inspirations lie. Whether just being the blacked out versions of kicks we're accustomed to seeing, or subtle differences included to some of our favorite silhouettes, many of these will be heavily desired well well before they hit the streets.

If we're asking opinions here, the nearly all black twelves call to me. But don't sleep on those candy cane Fours. Tell us which are your favorites in the comments, and let us know which you've got to have.

Weekend Release Reminder

Our friends over at Nike/JB are unveiling a whole gang of releases this weekend, designed to leave you staring at your checking account Monday like, "What happened?". Stand by for the lineup. 

In no particular order, you have a Jordan 1, some KD7's, a new iteration on Foamposites, a low top Jordan XI, as well as a pack of "Championship" 7's to round out just what goes on sale Saturday morning. 

First to highlight, the Jordan Pinnacle 1's. Dressed up in white, with more white, with accents of shiny white, and then gold Jordan wings, eyelets, and nike plating. Luxury. Retailing for a commanding $400, they better be luxurious. 

Next up to bat, the newest rendition on the "What the ... " Family, this time with the KD7 imprint. Mashing together multiple renditions of KD's we have seen before, there is a certain Wow factor with these. It may very well be those hits of neon glow-in-the-dark green, all I know is, you won't have to look very hard to find somebody in a crowd rocking these... They'll find your eyes.

Foams are back in a big big way for the Summer. With a glossy exterior of dark emerald, clear icy soles, black accents, and classy hits of hypnotizing red. 3M effect on the paneling, with an underlying "fish scale" type look, and dead fish skeleton (who could do without?) on the ankle. Gone Fishin' tends to mean that somebody has gone on an extended break of some sort... Exactly the opposite of what every person sitting at their comp on NDC will do come release time. 

A small feet release of some juicy Citrus XI's in the mix. How many of y'all can cram your foot into a child's size? If you can, more power to you, and enjoy these kicks. Glossy whites meet a near tangerine orange sole, jumpman, and band across the tongue. Crisp, clean and refreshing. Just like a summer drink. 

Home stretch now.. The Championship pack 7's. Designed in order to commemorate MJ's first successive championships back in 1991 & 1992, both of these pairs take on their own individual cues reminiscent of last year's Cigar/Champagne pack 6's. This year's Cigar is caught rocking a burgundy coat, white accoutrements throughout, and a lovely gum sole. The Champagne of the pack takes on a distinctive white upper, black and metallic gold make appearances on the shoe as well. Plus, isn't everything better when you can use rings as lace locks?? 

There you have it. All of the SATURDAY releases slotted for this weekend. We didn't even touch what comes out before the weekend. Let us know in the comments down there what made your list for this weekend, and what you'll leave at the store. 

Nike back at it again

Bots. Raffles. In-store pick-ups. All pieces of the puzzle that came together in Nikes effort to level playing fields for all those who happen to purchase highly anticipated kicks from the sneaker Overlord. 

In case you missed it, Nike has revised their way they plan to unveil Heat in the future. For those of us who may not have familiarized ourselves with said policy just yet, feel free to check it out here 

While just about any which way Nike can slice the conundrum of release protocol will be viewed unfavorably by some, Bots are truly a thing of evil that needed to be done anyway with. 

In the opinion of  someone who wakes up early on Saturdays to almost exclusively secure a pair of new releases off of NDC, having entire runs disappear in nanoseconds is absolutely disheartening. At least with these new means, everyone has a puncher's chance. 

While I can see pitfalls built into how Nike wishes to unleash their products (Involving Twitter, multiple steps to register, on top of time investment of the consumer to physically pick up their new shoe), it leaves me wondering how this will play out in the public's eye. 

Is this gonna be enough of a counter-strike to crooked consumers that Joe Every-Kick will feel he has an actual shot to score the kicks he wants from Nike? Or will the small victory for us by-the-books buyers be negligible when the likes of Footlocker and Finish Line still have no ability to block bot purchases? 

It's a multi-layered onion that only time will help us un-peel. But here's hoping that this change will result in more kicks for actual Heads...not just dreaded Resellers. 

Let us know all your thoughts in the comments and just what you plan to change (if anything) about how you go about your weekend cops

Forgive us for the hiatus, but.....

Like a fresh pair of retros, we're back and ready to rock. Not only are we going to be keeping you up to date with the newest and freshest drops, but a whole slew of new and exciting content coming as well real real soon.

Just the tip of the iceberg, a brand new series of in-depth tutorials delving into sneaker maintenance and preservation. Covering topics ranging from; cleaning & rejuvenating, de-creasing, re-painting, customizing, and even restoring some of our favorite kicks. Keep your eyes opened wide for giveaways as well, those may come too.

Just stay tuned. Plenty more in the works. And thanks you for hanging with us through our growth. You won't be disappointed.

Just a quick Release Reminder for this weekend

Jordan Brand is set to unveil these above beauties this weekend (one week past the originally slated dates; but hey, better late than never ever).

So for all those who had their hearts set out on handing over some hard earned money to Jordan himself last weekend, do not fret, this weekend is your weekend. With both men and women alike taken care of on this release, expect many sneakerhead couples to attempt a "Double Dip" if you will, when it comes to hitting the mall for their fix. 

The Air Jordan 13 low "Hornet" rocks smooth leather from upper to toebox, hits of two different blue hues make up the rest of the kick. A dark blue - light blue tandem very similar to a certain "Legend Blue".... **cough cough Colombia cough cough**... rendition of the Air Jordan 4 seen earlier this year.

This Air Jordan 7 model sports a predominant black nubuck coat, but splashes and hits of purple, tan, and turquoise teal grace the body of this new iteration on a classic silhouette. Bright colors pop when put up against that dark nubuck, so expect ladies to rock these loud and proud.

Set to hit your online and in-store retailers Friday the 24th of April. Good luck landing your pair!

All pics provided by our friends at SneakerNews. Hit the comments and let us know if this is on your "Cop" list, or the "Not" list. 

Nike set to bring back a classic

Nike is paving the way for a lovely Summer to come with this most recent news. Set for a May 16th re-unveiling, the Nike Air Max 90 'Infrared' is back once again. Sporting the trademark hits of Infrared from; toe, to air unit, to heel, to lace eyelets. With luscious black notes making the clean white of the toe box, laces, and ankle of the shoe pop that much more, this iteration is bound to find it's way into many a collection in a few short weeks.

While I had heard rumblings of this release earlier this year, when I saw that it was confirmed, I let out a noticeable chuckle of joy. See, not only are these the classic Air Max 90's to most people, but these are the first Air Maxes I can recall having as a grade schooler. Traveling up the ladder, I can recall having them again through high school. And once again, Nike provides me the option to reacquire these babies with much gusto.

Whether its the shoe itself, or the nostalgia that they bring upon, these kicks will always have a special spot in my mind and closet. For those reasons, I'll be finding a way to find my way into these Nikes. And with a retail price set for $120, this acquisition won't be nearly as taxing as some to come in the month of May. (Stay tuned for more on that....)


Hit the comments to let us know what you think about the 2015 editions of these Air Maxes. Cop or Drop?

Who woke up early today??

For those of you who arose early this morning, I can only assume that Nike was the reasoning behind your wake-up call. Nike had 2 tremendous drops this morning that I'm sure stalled out many a computer server.

Of course I'm speaking of the Low Top 'Georgetown' Jordan XI's as well as the all Gym Red Air Foamposites. Both of which hit the marketplace at 7am Pacific Time.

Hit the comments section and let us know if you were one of the ones to cop, and just how easy/difficult it was to get your hands on that sweet patent leather and/or cool foam material.

Ladies Air Max 90 -- "Air Brush" Pack

Dropping this past Saturday were the latest additions to the WMNS Air Max 90 catalog. Coming in the form of a pack comprised of two off setting colored pairs. One in dressed mainly in silver and Pink Pow. The other silver with Clearwater accents. While the specialized colors could've used better names in my opinion, the visuals certainly speak for themselves.

 Whether you were introduced to these Spring heaters as the "Air Brush" pack, or the "Splatter" pack,  or what have you. Names matter not at this point. What matters is the fact that Spring is back upon us once again. That means a few things to the general population. Gradually climbing temperatures, taxes, baseball season inching ever closer, and Nike prepping to drop waves and waves of air maxes in the coming months. 

These bad babies are just the precursor for many different air maxes to come this year. Fabrics, color splotches, warmth of hues are all ready to flip. This pack is simply the warm-up. Not meant to diminish these artsy models one bit, because I'm sure there are some sneakerhead dudes a little jealous these didn't come in their size.

Keep your eyes open and ears to the ground for all the Air Maxes soon to drop. Be sure to check the Release Date page if you're wondering when your potential favorites are coming.

Quick Release Reminders! Foams. Jordans. Air Max. Oh My.

Big weekend approaching for Nike Brand. Dropping more than just a couple releases that call for attention.


For Friday 3/20, we have those notorious metallic Gold Foamposites set to hit retailers here in the States. And then come Saturday morning, the Jordan 4 "Laser" editions drop, as well as a serious pack of Ladies Air Max 90's (keep your eyes open for a post on those babies separately).

The 15th wasn't too long ago y'all.. Hope you didn't breeze through that paycheck before this weekend hit the horizon.



Be sure to check our Release Dates page to stay up on when the Heat is coming to stores

Thanks to Sole Collector and Kicksonfire for the shots.

Two White & Varsity classics set to make a return 3/28

Both slated for a return real real soon are a couple variations on a two shoes that really need no introduction.  Silhouettes that are unforgettable on their own, yet are swooned over just about every time Jordan Brand takes a trip into the vault.

First off, we have an iteration of the Jordan 10, coined the "Double Nickel" 10 to be exact. This predominantly white tumbled leather specimen boasts many of the same markings as the "Chicago" 10's that have been released  a few times over Jordan history. A striking difference (used for exaggeration purposes) between the two models of 10's happen to be that this year's release dons a gorgeous stitched "45" along the ankle. Meant to pay homage to the time Jordan spent pursuing his dreams on the baseball diamond with the Chicago White Sox, during which time he wore the #45 jersey.

Next up, who doesn't love a Jordan 1 in anticipation of Summer? And when this quintessential kick is kissed with a varsity swoosh, that above question may just go double. A crispy clean white makes for a perfect contrast mate for that signature deep red hue. The streets will be on fire once people start UNDS'ing these babies.

Which ones are you going for?? Hit the comments and let everybody know.

Props to Kicksonfire and Kickture for the flicks.

Mo'Ne Davis set to drop her own shoe line with a Cause

Caption this one.

If you do not know the name Mo'ne Davis, not only do I wonder what rock have you been hiding under these last 8 months, but I feel bad for you missing the excitement and elation this young lady dazzled an entire nation with (or the spin move she dazzled a certain vertically-challenged movie star/comedian during the NBA All Star celebrity game with as well). This kid is awesome. I mean, come on, even NBA MVP candidate Stephen Curry wants her autograph.

On top of her distinction as the first female to pitch for a Win in the Little League World Series, this 13-year old phenom can add shoe mogul and philanthropist to her resume. In conjunction with the organization M4D3 (Make A Difference Everyday), Mo'ne will design her line of kicks. Not only will these shoes go to help fashion savvy individuals find new fits to form, but the proceeds are headed to more than a suitable cause. All money generated from her sneaker sales will be donated to Plan's Because I Am Girl Initiative, that goes to help eradicate child poverty that especially affects young woman worldwide.

Davis will help to design a collection of 4 different color ways. The design of her shoe looks to share some design elements with that of a baseball... How fitting. And, last but not least, each kick is gonna carry a $75 price tag. Pre-order available now for Ladies and Kids sizes.

Serious Collection on Ebay

This may just be the coup de gras when speaking on collections. Recently to hit Ebay is a an astounding collection that I feel even my most descriptive words can simply not do it justice. However, I will do my best.

First off to highlight, this resounding collection is comprised of 26 rare (and sometimes not even attainable) Nike specimens. Ranging from general release Jordan examples to unreleased Jordan samples to Nikes fashioned around hip hop moguls and the like. Every shoe is from this side of the millennium, however that does not diminish the sheer heat on display in this ongoing auction. With just over 8 days remaining in said auction, the current bid sits at just over $32,000. Who knows how high the ceiling will rise for these lovely pieces of wearable art. But if you're in the market, time to put your bid in.

Just to name a few on this extraordinary list, you'll find general release (yet always sought out) examples such as; Jordan 1 'Bred', Jordan 4 'White Cement', Jordan 5 'Grape', and Jordan 4 'Fear' edition. Also included are rare Jordan samples, like; Jordan 9 lows in black and white, Jordan 1 Highs in black patent leather (yet noticeably no swoosh), Jordan 8 Highs in white, graphite, and orange, and even the Eminem 'Encore' Jordan 4s as well.

If you aren't the biggest Jordan fan either, there's still something for you too! Samples like unreleased Kobe 2K4 Huaraches in pristine white and hints of grey. Lebron Zoom Generation I "First Game" in white and red. As well, as the Lebron Zoom Generation I "LA All Star" editions, boasting a dominant white body, with hints of blue and Cavs orange.


Scanning the typical Ebay druthers and coming upon this sparkling gem was absolutely incredible. I don't find myself with that type of loot to blow on kicks, or with space to store such a haul, so count me out of the race. But at the very least, I feel like a more well rounded sneaker head for peeping game.


Thanks to Deuce Palms and eBay for the photos.

Release Reminder!

Even though Nike will keep those Metallic Gold Foams tucked for another week, Jordan brand pulls back the curtain on 3 models set to drop tomorrow. All set for unveiling tomorrow (March 14th) at 10A eastern, 7A pacific. 

 Of the 2 new colorways to grace classic Jordan silhouettes, we'll highlight the IV first. A remarkably teal iteration of the Retro 4, that are bound to turn heads with that mystifying blue-green hue. Both black and white also show up on the shoe to provide a nice contrast from the rich sea color. A certain shade of blue just a touch lighter than teal makes its presence known on; the Jordan tongue tag, nettings, and sole. Next up, we'll check out the Verde edition of the Air Jordan 7s. These crispy kicks are designed for the cutie in your life. A "Ladies Only" rendition supposedly, although I'm sure a few male sneakerheads will make the size conversion in order to nab a pair of these heaters. Marked by a predominantly clean white upper, an all black tongue makes for the first offsetting trait that draws eyes to the brighter tones found on the kick. The Nike titled "Verde" makes its first showcase appearance that I can recall, in the form of stitching all over the shoe, the JORDAN across the tongue, and signature pods near the heel. Hints of Infrared also spread throughout. Bright colors to welcome in the Spring and bust out of these final Winter woes.

 Last, but certainly not least in my own approximation, the Stealth version of the Jordan 20. This classic variation, first seen back in 2005, makes it's triumphant return to the spotlight this Saturday. Dressed predominantly in black, areas of grey do make appearances for subtle variety to this fit. Bright, vibrant red mark the sock liner of the shoe with luxurious style. Laser etchings over the lace covers add to the delicate detail of this shoe to boot. Finally, shiny black patent leather grace the toe and wrap around all the way up to that notorious ankle strap.

 Tell us what you think about these upcoming releases in the comments below, and for any upcoming shoes you're wondering about, Check the Release Dates page for all those heaters soon to drop! 

Verde 7's GS 

Teal 4's

Stealth XX's

Metallic Gold Nike Foamposites (Release pushed back)

A few days back, to the angst of many many sneakerheads,  Nike announced that their much anticipated metallic gold Foamposites, that were set to hit stores everywhere this Saturday morning, had been pushed back until April 3rd.

While I had no intentions of waking up early and hitting the 'net, or camping at any single shoe outfitter in my local mall for these babies, I can certainly imagine many people who were ready to take that route.

In fact, today at my regular 9-to-5, I overheard two co-workers speaking candidly of shoes. And while I do not attempt to hide my passion for kicks at work, I definitely don't try to interject my own shoe thoughts into conversations that do not involve me. However, after the typical talk of Jordans and upcoming releases, the conversation shifted to the topic of those All Gold Foams.

While one party stood pretty solidly on the principle, "Those foams are gonna eat way too much of my paycheck to sit in my closet for months and months." It seems easy to see that said party was not planning to cop said Nikes. While the other party, stood firmly at the other end of the spectrum, "These kicks are too hard to pass up. Who knows when Nike will drop such heat in Foam form."

Release date delay aside, it brought to my mind a question that all sneakerheads have to confront at some point. Whether subconsciously, or on the surface.... What is the most you would spend on a pair of Nikes? 

Everybody's answer is bound to vary. Kicks mean different things to different people. But what is the most you can justify spending on a pair of basketball shoes that, in all likelihood, will never see a court?

Some of us can throw stacks and stacks of greenbacks towards a growing collection. Others of us must plot and strategically plan our next pick-ups. And with big brands very much aware that people will pay the price they stamp on those tags, where does your limit come into play?


Leave all thoughts and comments below. I'm interested in where everybody stands on this one. 



Update: Just three days after their initial announcement, Nike has changed the Foamposite release date once more. This time, and hopefully the final time, set for Friday March 20th. 1 short week from today.

Welcome

So... I suppose this is the place for introductions then.

Hey there. Whoever you are. My name is Tyler, I'm 24 years old as I type this, and I hail from the beautiful state of California. More specifically, I call the San Francisco Bay Area home. I'm a fan of sports, a good laugh, and just about everything shoe related. In fact, I'm what some would deem, a Sneakerhead. And this is my blog...


I found myself bitten by the Sneaker Bug relatively recently in life. Only about 3 years ago. But when she sunk her fangs into me, did she drive them deep.  It was with gusto that I began my collection of kicks. Pretty much the entire gamut without discrimination. Nike, Adidas, New Balance, Reebok... All in the mix. Filling out the closet with bags and boxes. Retail, Ebay, hook-ups from the homies. My acquiring knew no bounds. Thus leading to the collection that I tout today.

And while my habit has slowed considerably for the time being, there are still plenty of Saturdays where I find myself awake early, hunched over my keyboard waiting for Nike to send out their online links. It's a constant struggle.

Not only does this happen to be my blog... But Sole Addicted is also my business. I take pride in saying that I organize and facilitate the restoration of worn (and sometimes battered) kicks. Mainly your Jordans, Nike Dunks, Foamposites and the like. You know, high-end basketball shoes. It is through much diligence, practice, and patience that Sole Addicted Restorations was born. To this date, in just under a year of operation, we have had the pleasure and privilege to be trusted with dozens of shoes from private clientele spread out over the western half of the United States, as well as working hand in hand with several shoe boutiques throughout the greater Bay Area as 'hired guns' when demand for restorations become too high for the shops to handle.

It is through that gained experience, and time spent mingling with individuals whose shoe collections mean just as much to them (if not more) than mine means to me that I found a new and fresh passion. Restorations.  The feeling of being able to bring somebody's kicks back to life for them is truly awesome. To see them open a shoebox with the same joy that had when they originally bought their kicks many moons ago brings me both joy and honor. 

We develop connections with our kicks. Big things that happen in our lives, we remember which shoes we were in. Sentiment sometimes means much more than the kick itself. So, when somebody brings me their Flu Game Jordan 12's from 2003 that need some TLC, it's great care, time, and effort that's put into that shoe to get it back to new. Because 2003 might have been a great year for that person.


We chronicle all projects we do on our Instagram page (@Sole_Addicted_Restorations). If you're intrigued in seeing our catalog, or even reaching out for a restoration of your own.  And yes, we do follow back.

Restored White Cement 3's

Fast Times SB Dunks

Restored 2008 CDP 4's