Skip to main content

How Sneaker Con Provides a Trusted Marketplace for Sneakerheads Everywhere

Image used with permission by copyright holder

If you’re a sneakerhead, you understand just how important authentication is when it comes to buying an expensive pair of shoes you haven’t seen in person yet. That’s why Sneaker Con was created: to give sneaker enthusiasts  of all ages, sexes, shapes, sizes, and cultures a safe hub for buying and selling some of the rarest shoes on the planet.

Founded in 2009 by Alan Vinogradov, Barris Vinogradov, and Yu-Ming Wu, Sneaker Con’s goal is to unite a growing network of young entrepreneurs, influencers, and consumers who are connected through a passion for rare, authentic, and extremely cool kicks. In 2016, the company hosted 13 public conventions that attracted over 70,000 people combined in cities such as Los Angeles, London, Melbourne, Toronto, and Atlanta.

By implementing an extremely rigorous authentication program (that can even include weighing each individual shoe), the con provides the utmost confidence for attendees on any purchases or sales transactions they make. The veritable service is near-field communication (NFC) capable and offers interactive “Legit Tags,” which supply the full specs of each pair. This safe haven for shoe collectors was something the sneaker world was definitely missing.

The world’s premier traveling sneaker gathering is also going digital. Soon, Sneaker Con will launch an app that gives sneakerheads and kick geeks an easy and secure marketplace for finding sought-after favorites for your feet. The app includes everything from a content feed to keep users up-to-date on upcoming drops from big-name brands like Jordan, Nike, Adidas, and more; reviews on products; and other news surrounding sneaker culture. Sellers are provided with all of the tools necessary for managing their inventory and the opportunity to turn passion into a successful business venture.

If you’re interested in attending an actual Sneaker Con meetup, we’ve provided 2018 schedule below. Find ticket information online ($25-$45 for the event in LA) then connect with like-minded people to buy and sell your sneakers in a secure space.

2018 Sneaker Con Dates and Locations

Another option for sourcing legit fashions other than attending Sneaker Con is Stadium Goods’ app, which you can find here.

Editors' Recommendations

Topics
Bryan Holt
Former Digital Trends Contributor
Bryan Holt is a writer, editor, designer, and multimedia storyteller based in Portland, Oregon. He is a graduate from the…
The 14 Best Men’s Athletic Sneakers for Supercharging Every Workout
adidas running shoes

With more people finally stepping outside of their homes to enjoy the fresh air of this season's warmer days and lush greenery, you might want to buy a couple of brand-new athletic sneakers from your favorite men's clothing stores to enjoy your morning jogs and other errands. These are sneakers that can withstand environmental stresses, allowing you to go for a quick run on a rugged trail. Some highlight versatility (i.e. universal) while other pairs of men's shoes are perfect for basketball or high-impact workouts. If you find it difficult choosing which kicks to purchase, look no further as we’ve gathered the best athletic sneakers— with selections befitting every type of workout from running to basketball. Check out our list of the best men's athletic shoes.

Related Guides

Read more
The 9 Best Boat Shoes for Men To Wear All Year Long
best mens boat shoes men 2021

In many ways, boat shoes are arguably the most ideal footwear: They’re traditionally worn without socks, easy to slip on and off, and versatile enough to dress up or down. In short, consider them a casual staple for on or off a boat this 2021. And even though boat shoes haven’t been confined to decks for quite some time, the qualities that initially made them suitable for life on the water still make them desirable today. Just take their most innovative feature: rubber soles with thinly cut slits (known as siping) to prevent slipping. Let’s face it, we all know that you don’t need to be on a boat to take a tumble on a wet surface.

But attributes aside, boat shoes are an instantly recognizable menswear icon, and a style of shoe that’ll ensure you never run short of casual outfit options. Whether you’re after a traditional pair, or want to opt for a more modern interpretation, we’ve got the best boat shoes ready for your perusal.

Read more
5 Sneaker Alternatives to Your Go-to Vans and Converse
Onitsuka Tiger Mexico 66 shoes

Cons, Converse, Chuck Taylors, All Stars, Chucks — the sneakers that go by many nicknames have been a staple of American footwear since the 1960s. The ubiquitous high-top design for a time was associated with pop-punk and alternative cool before being subsumed into the mass cultural imagination as an empty signifier of individuality. Nowadays, Converse are a bit of a sartorial cliche; they’re most commonly seen on groomsmen during “quirky” weddings.

The story of Vans slip-ons, which also gained popularity in surfer and skater subcultures before becoming an inauthentic symbol of rebellion, isn’t so dissimilar. While the iconic checkerboard patterns were eye-catching for a time, it’s now easy to spot who hopped on the bandwagon only after the shoes got trendy.

Read more