Welcome to another jam-packed edition Sneaker Love where no box is left unopened and we examine every major neck-breaking release. While April delivered another stellar line-up of product — with the Air Jordan XII Playoff stealing the show — the next four weeks promises to be even better! Welcome to May…
If you haven’t blown your monthly budget and the lights are still on, you better start preparing your explanation for why you’re now eating dinner in the dark because this month sees the Air Jordan XI Low White / Red (Drop: May 5. RRP: $199.95); the LeBron 9 PS Elite South Beach (Drop: May 10. RRP: $299.95); the Air Jordan IV ‘Cavs’ (Drop: May 12. RRP: $219.95) and the Jordan Fly Wade 2 EV (Drop: TBA. RRP: $199.95) all hitting local retail.
Note: all prices are in AUD.
Air Jordan XI Low White / Red.
Easily one of the most striking sneakers the world has ever seen, this edition of the AJXI features the signature patent leather and looks to kill for. As a non-traditional low-cut, this release offers versatility and performance excellence. One wearing and you’ll sure to be hooked.
LeBron 9 PS Elite South Beach.
Not your average shoe (and at a cool $300 it better walk the dog as well), this head turning 9 PS Elite S.B contains carbon fibre enforcement, lightweight construction, ultra high tensile strength Flywire and a 3D anatomical fit with no-slip print throughout the liner. We recommend packing an extra comfortable fold-out chair and lots of magazines because this limited release looks like one you’ll have to camp out for.
Air Jordan IV ‘Cavs’.
As a tribute to Michael Jordan’s 1989 Playoff heroics, the Swoosh are releasing a Cleveland Cavaliers colourway of the famed sneaker. Designed to commemorate the series winning basket (aka The Shot) which MJ nailed in Game 5 of the Eastern Conference quarters over Craig Ehlo, this Quickstrike drop is sure to please MJ fanatics and upset all affiliated with the Ohio franchise.
Jordan Fly Wade 2 EV.
Dwyane Wade’s latest signature shoe was designed to his exact specifications. The Jordan Brand Team Member aka Miami Heat superstar (aka part-time Gabrielle Union handbag), has gone on the record stating that he prefers soft cushioning and an ultra-responsive ride, so this shoe features full-length edge-to-edge Lunarlon ultra-plush cushioning. Since Wade’s game is quick and aggressive, his shoe is lightweight, durable and strong. Adding to the premium performance is the Hyperfuse construction which uses four different layers of mesh and synthetic materials to provide much needed support and durability. If, like Wade, you prefer driving in the fast lane, than the Jordan Fly Wade 2 EV is for you.
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RETAIL THERAPY
Finding a reliable sneaker store with friendly / knowledgeable staff can be quite a frustrating process so we’ve decided to spotlight the top shopping spots.
Location: Melbourne CBD.
FOOT LOCKER
163-165 Swanston Street
Sneaker Range: Excellent variety of brands including: NIKE, Adidas, Reebok, Under Armour, etc.. Regular markdowns on quality stock.
Apparel: NBA jerseys… Lots of Jordan Brand… large range of Tees, beanies, caps, etc.
Staff: Friendly sales assistants, helpful and knowledgeable. Say hi to Owen while you’re there, he is Foot Locker’s basketball guru.
KICKZ 101.
63 Elizabeth Street.
Sneaker Range: Overall, a fantastic variety of basketball sneakers including heavyweights like NIKE, Reebok, AND1 and Le Coq Sportif. No markdowns but the pre-order arrangement is a very convenient way to shop.
Apparel: All the latest and coolest Tees… NBA jerseys (Swingman and Limited edition)… the most diverse Snapback / Fitted Cap range in the country (both Mitchell & Ness and NEW ERA)… plus all the essentials from socks to headbands and everything in between.
Staff: Friendly and approachable… Owner is on site most days (ensuring the best possible service)… Always willing to bend over backwards to make sure you leave with a smile.
KEEP AN EYE OUT FOR…
SOLE MATES (Melbourne Sneaker Society) on Facebook.
This is another good way to shop, meet sneakerheads and get the latest scoop on release dates. It’s all the rage right now and a perfect opportunity to pick up some bargains and rare collector’s items.
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TOP FIVE KICKS — April.
1. NIKE Air Jordan XII Playoff.
2. NIKE LeBron 9 Elite ‘Home’.
3. NIKE Kobe VII Elite Black / Metallic Gold
4. NIKE Zoom Huarache 2K4 Black Maize
5. Jordan Fly Wade 2 EV
Next Month: We’ll take a detailed look at the 20 Most Loved Sneakers of All-Time, as voted by you… and highlight June’s must have releases.
So long and don’t forget to treat your sneakers like teeth — brush regularly.
Cheers,
Christian Bulls-Allday.
Tags: Christian Bulls-All Day, CRTSDE, Sneaker Love
