No one really knows why humans have the desire to start collecting things, though there are some interesting theories about the psychology behind starting a collection. If you’ve always been drawn to athletic footwear, then it might be time to fully lean into being a sneakerhead by starting a shoe collection of your own.
But, how do you get started and go from one or two pairs of NBA player shoes to a closet-full collection that would make anyone jealous?
We’re here to help. Keep reading to learn tips on how to become a sneakerhead so you can start building your collection in no time.
Start by Learning Shoe History
Becoming a true sneakerhead is about more than just owning NBA signature shoes or the latest hot release. You have to know the ins and outs of sneaker fashion and that includes learning about the origin of streetwear.
Take some time to do a deep dive into how urban streetwear culture began and how it evolved to include releases from NBA all-star players like Jordan and Kobe.
Then, learn about the most popular sneaker brands like Nike, Adidas, Converse, and Reebok. Read about how people have responded to the different brands and how they’ve all cemented their place in culture and style. The more you know about the history of these shoes, the more you can appreciate each pair you buy.
Get a Better Idea of Shoe Values
When you’re first getting started, it’s tempting to jump right in and start buying some of your favorite shoes immediately. However, that’s an easy way to blow through a lot of money and you might not even get what you think you’re buying. Instead, take the time to research shoe values so you have a better idea of what to expect, so you don’t get scammed.
Research reputable stores and read through online forums and discussion boards to learn more about the sneakerhead community. They’ll be able to give you tips and tricks so you can learn from mistakes they’ve made in the past and prevent making some of your own.
Set a Budget
We know, it’s no fun to put restrictions on your hobby, but unless you have unlimited money, you have to be realistic about what you can spend on shoes. Otherwise, you can quickly spend more than you ever imagined possible as you begin to build your collection.
Come up with a number that you’re comfortable spending over the course of the year and use that to plan out what you’ll buy over the coming months.
If you want extra spending money for your collection, consider getting a second job at a shoe store. As an employee, you might learn about drops in advance and you could get a discount on purchases depending on where you work. This can help support your hobby and make it easier to grow your collection.
Decide Which Shoes and Brands Are Most Important to You
Once you have a budget in place, it’s time to start the fun part of actually deciding which pair of shoes to add to your collection next. You’ll want to think about which shoes and brands are the most important to you, so you can prioritize making purchases that will add the most value to you personally.
For example, if you’ve been eyeing a special pair of Kobe 5 sneakers, then you might want to hold off on buying any other shoe until you get your hands on those. It helps to keep a list or spreadsheet of your top “wants” so you can keep an eye out for them and mark them off as you buy them.
Shop Smart
Now that you know what you want and how much you’re willing to spend, it’s time to start shopping. So, where should you go to build your collection? The most obvious place to turn is the internet. You can find almost anything you want online, however, be wary of deals that seem too good to be true.
You should only buy from reputable online stores, otherwise, you risk getting duped. As you browse certain retailers, be sure to sign up for their email services, so you’ll receive alerts about upcoming drops or sales. This can help you score a new pair of shoes before anyone else.
However, don’t limit yourself to just using the internet. You can also hit outlet stores like the Nike Outlet, where you might be able to find rare sample sneakers. If you live in a city with a sneaker scene, it’s also worth checking out local thrift stores, where you just might be able to score a pair of shoes that someone else decided to part with. It never hurts to look!
Learn How to Care for Your Collection
As you begin to build your collection and become a true sneakerhead, you need to learn how to take care of your collection to keep your shoes in good condition. Try not to wear any pair too often to avoid normal wear and tear. When you do wear them, be sure to clean them after every use with brushes and specific shoe cleaning products.
You should also look into shoe storage options, like clear cases or custom-built closet shelves. Part of the fun of being a sneakerhead is showing off your collection.
Instead of throwing your prized possessions into the back of your closet, turn your storage area into something like a work of art, where it can be admired. After all, you’ve worked hard to grow your collection and it deserves some attention.
Start Your Journey to Becoming a Sneakerhead
After reading through this guide on how to become a sneakerhead, you’re ready to get started on your collection. Take your time and have fun doing it. Owning shoes can be a really fulfilling hobby that brings joy to your life.
Want to read more lifestyle content like this? Be sure to check out our other articles before you go.
